Blisters and pain up and down arms after IPL freckle removal treatment. Was I burned? (photos)

Question

I had an IPL freckle removal procedure done by an RN and had some pretty intense pain after (could barely drive home). The pain went away after several hours, but I developed bumps (blisters?) all up and down both arms. The nurse told me these weren't actually blisters, and that this was to be expected, but I just feel a bit uncomfortable with her answer . . . especially after googling around. (Normal patients seem to experience minimal pain/swelling?) Photo attached. Does this look "normal"?

Erica Linnell, MD · Answer

I agree with you, from the photos those do appear to be blisters.  The best advice would be to return to the clinic where you had the treatment, or find a board certified dermatologist in your area and make an appointment.  In the meantime, you can put some Vaseline or Aquaphor on the area and of course don't de-roof any of the blisters.  You will probably at least need a prescription topical steroid cream.  Please try to see your provider today or tomorrow!Good luck!

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I don't care what that person told you. Those are burns from overtreatment. You need a prescription steroid cream to apply - NOW. And you need to make sure you keep that area out of the sun. You should not have blisters after treatment and this is NOT what is to be expected after IPL nor is it "normal". You need to see a board-certified dermatologist (or that person's medical director) for proper and immediate care. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and 
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Blisters and pain up and down arms after IPL freckle removal treatment. Was I burned? (photos)

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