Is swelling after an IPL facial normal? (Photo)

Question

The area under my eyes is extremely swollen. It has been more than 24 hours and the swelling has not gone down.

Lisa Jenks, MD · Answer

Swelling after an IPL is very normal.  I am sorry your provider did not make you aware of that.  In addition, it is normal for the reds and browns to look worse for 5-7 days and for there to be some sloughing of the skin.Sleeping in a slightly elevated position will decrease the swelling.  You can also hold ice to the areas for 5- 10 mins several times daily.  Be sure to have a washcloth or paper towel between your skin and the ice.  Ibuprofen can also help decrease the swelling.  Even if you did none of these things, it should go away on its own in 5-7 days.  It is very important that you are using a good, physical block sunscreen.  I prefer those made by Elta MD.  Best of luck to you.

Usha Rajagopal, MD · Answer

It is not unusual at all to have swelling after IPL, especially if the treatment was done in the upper cheek/ lower eyelid area. The swelling will go away. I would recommend to sleep with your head elevated and you can use some ice packs. You can also take some Ibuprofen, but the swelling should go away.

Andre Berger, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question,
Swelling following an IPL treatment is normal, and can take up to 4 days to dissipate. Using ice packs and applying sunscreen regularly can also help to reduce swelling. If you are still swollen after 4 days, I would speak with your IPL provider.

Ram Chandra, MD · Answer

Swelling and redness after IPL photorejuvenation is a common occurrence and at 24 hours it should not be a concern.  Sometimes it can take 3-4 days. If there is any pain by 72 hrs or  it looks worse have it checked again by your physician. You may use icepacks and apply moisturizer and use sunscreen during day time

Rebecca Gelber, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is quite common after IPL, although it is important to let your treating office know so they can take it into consideration with your next treatment.Sleeping as upright as possible, cool compresses, ibuprofen (or another anti-inflammatory) and benadryl (or another anti-histamine) at bedtime can help. If you are not better by Monday morning or are getting worse, please call your treating doctor.

David Jensen, DO · Answer

Laying flat can cause excess swelling after a treatment such as IPL and most modalities. First thing in the morning the swelling is more likely , through out the day the swelling is lessened. I would ice the area and stay away from exercise, hot showers or tubs for a day or two.

Pamela Stuart, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photo you provided. Swelling under the eye area after a photo-facial or IPL treatment is very common. From your photo I do not see any areas that appear concerning, but if it continues after 72 hours it might be helpful to have a conversation with your treating physician to have them recheck the areas of concern. Typically swelling can last up to 72 hours and ice packs used the first day are usually helpful.  However from your photo I do not see any areas of concern and you should likely see decrease in the swelling over the next 48 hours. Best wishes.

Alexis Parker, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The IPL may cause swelling, especially around the eyes, because it is flashlamp technology that heats the tissues of the face.  The skin under the eyes is extremely thin and will show the swelling more, particularly after lying down all night.  I suggest sleeping at 45 degrees and icing the eye area.  Do not apply ice directly to the face. Wrap cool compresses before applying them to the face.  Also a follow up call to your doctor for reassurance is important.  All the best to you.  Alexis Parker MD

Is swelling after an IPL facial normal? (Photo)

Answers (8)

More IPL Questions

Exercise after IPL - is it the flushing or the sweating that you want to avoid?

Can I use Neet to remove facial hair and still get IPL treatments if I wait ten days before treatment?

Brown marks after Limelight laser on face?

Why did the spider veins on my face return after IPL?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS