I have welts and broken capillaries on my cheeks 3 days after IPL. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Question

I had IPL on my cheeks for broken capillaries 3 days ago. This is my 3rd time doing this and I have always had great results. I still use the same dermatologist. My concern is that in addition to the blood vessels that have been treated, I now have areas of welts. They are skin colored and almost remind me of hives. They don't hurt. Just concerned because it's been 3 days. Thanks in advance for your advice!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Return to see the treating doctor ASAP. Appears as a 1st degree burn.??? IPL can cause burns... Aquafor ointment is best to be used.

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

What you have is edema, which is swelling post-IPL. When treating vascular irregularities and capillaries, this sometimes happens. You can take an OTC medication like Benadryl, and apply cool water followed by topical hydrocortisone a few times a day. This should take it right down. Also, at your next appointment, tell the office what happened. While it's not alarming and is quite common to have this happen, they will need to know so that they don't go too aggressive with your settings in the future. "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."

I have welts and broken capillaries on my cheeks 3 days after IPL. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Answers (2)

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I have welts and broken capillaries on my cheeks 3 days after IPL. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Answers (2)

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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.