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.

Is swelling after an IPL facial normal? (Photo)

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Answer: Swelling after IPL

Answer: Swelling After IPL / Fotofacial

Answer: Swelling After IPL / Fotofacial

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Is swelling after an IPL facial normal? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Swelling after IPL

Answer: Swelling after IPL

Answer: Swelling After IPL / Fotofacial

Answer: Swelling After IPL / Fotofacial

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.