Does this look normal 2 days after my first IPL treatment? (photo)

I know it's not pretty, but a brown, bumpy appearance to your skin is common following IPL treatments. These spots should flake away on their own over the next week or so. Don't pick or scratch at them, as this could cause scarring. If you have any additional concerns, be sure you follow up with your treatment provider.

Thank you for your question and for sharing your
photographs angelosk. I understand your concern. An IPL photofacial is an
outstanding treatment for facial rejuvenation. It works by using bright light
to target and destroy pigment and redness in the skin. It is difficult to make an assessment without a
formal exam in the office where I can directly view the skin. However, I hope
the information provided here is useful.I provide the following aftercare instructions to my patients, which includes a discussion of darkening of the skin after a treatment:After an IPL photofacial treatment please avoid
heat exposure, alcohol consumption, and strenuous exercise for 24 hours. Heat
refers to going out in the hot sun, if it were to be hot outdoors; but also any
hot environments indoors such as a hot bath, sauna, or steam room. Also avoid
hot or spicy foods or drinks for 24 hours after the treatment because all of
these things can bring blood to the skin, which can lead to side effects such
as redness, blisters, or discolorations. Please avoid makeup for a few hours
after the treatment because the skin may be sensitive. The skin may be red or
swollen for a few days after the treatment. This is normal. Please feel free to
apply cold compresses such as ice packs to keep the skin comfortable, if
necessary. Sometimes dark spots may get darker before they get lighter.
Sometimes they flake off the surface and sometimes they are absorbed by the
skin depending on the depth of the pigment in the skin. This could take up
to two weeks. Patience is important. Prolonged discoloration beyond that may be
treated with creams. Please apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher with broad
spectrum protection every day if the treated area is not covered by clothing
and reapply every one to two hours if outdoors for prolonged periods. Remember
that driving in a car exposes the skin to the sun through the windows. Most
patients start with an initial series of six monthly treatments followed by one
maintenance treatment every three months thereafter.Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations. Good luck!