IPL treatments can cause the skin to become hypersensitive, particularly to heat. While a hot shower may be tolerable, it is important to ensure that the water does not directly hit the treated area. For the first two to three days, only cold or warm water should be used to wash the treated area. If a shower is necessary, wait at least 6-8 hours after the session.
When showering, use warm water and avoid using harsh products, scrubs, exfoliating mitts, or sponges on the treatment area. A fragrance-free body wash should be used and the treatment area should be dried with a towel to prevent damage to the skin. Additionally, hot baths or showers should be avoided for several days after each treatment as too much heat can be detrimental to the skin while it is trying to heal and regenerate. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided during this time as excessive sweating increases the chances of infection and delays the healing process.
Cold showers are recommended after laser therapy as hot water can burn and form blisters on the skin. For up to 48 hours, hot showers should be avoided. In addition to hot showers, hot tubs or saunas should also be avoided. It is safe to take a cold shower immediately after laser hair removal.
To limit skin irritation after laser hair removal, hot showers or baths should not be taken for 48 hours. If a bath or shower is desired, keep the water at a warm temperature. This is because excess heat should be avoided in the target areas of laser treatment. For this reason, saunas or hot tubs should not be used for two days after laser hair removal. It is also important to avoid hot water, rubbing, exfoliating, or applying other topical skin care products (including deodorant) for at least half a day for IPL treatments and a full 24 hours for laser treatments.
IPL photofacial treatments cause changes in the deeper layers of the skin in order to stimulate new collagen growth and create smoother skin on top. The benefits of these treatments become apparent within 24 hours of each procedure and continue to evolve over the following days and weeks. IPL devices require more treatments in advance than lasers as they are not as powerful. The best results will be seen after 3-6 months if a series of IPL treatments are done with an interval of about one month for each session.
