I have an IPL session scheduled in 4 days. Today I was outside and got sun on my face. Advice?

Question

Today I was outside (Spring finally arrived) and didn't realize until I came in that my face got some sun despite wearing sunscreen. Should I postpone the IPL session?

Alex Khadavi, MD · Answer

After sun exposure IPL treatment is not recommended, your skin is sensitive from the sun and will cause burning if treatment is done. To avoid any burning let your skin heal or until tan is gone, then schedule appointment for treatment. IPL treatments are not recommended if you are going to be expose to the sun during summer, pigmentation can worsen. 
Best,
Alex Khadavi, MD

Cynthia Stolovitz, MD · Answer

Yes 
I would postpone the treatment . I recommend no direct sunlight for 3-4 weeks before an IPL. In that way we can be more aggressive with the treatment with less concern for possible burns and complications.

Michael J. Rodriguez, MD, FAACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You definitely want to try and be out of the sun and direct sunlight at least a week prior to your IPL treatment. Every physician's recommendations are different. I would recommend you call the office where you are going to be having this procedure at to see what they would recommend specifically. Four days out of the sun may be an adequate amount of time for your specialist.

I have an IPL session scheduled in 4 days. Today I was outside and got sun on my face. Advice?

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I have an IPL session scheduled in 4 days. Today I was outside and got sun on my face. Advice?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about IPL

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