One of the most common questions I am asked is "How much downtime is there after a photofacial treatment?" Downtime, or social downtime, is the time where the face may be red and you may want to stay home instead of going to work or other events. A photofacial, or IPL, is a light-based treatment that works well to improve dark discolorations and redness including generalized redness and broken capillaries. An example of an IPL photofacial is the Broad Band Light treatment, now available at A E Skin. It also helps improve the luminosity or glow of the skin as well as close enlarged pores. At the same time it can stimulate collagen production to improve fine lines and laxity. After the procedure the skin may be red for 24 to 48 hours; this is normal. Also dark discolorations may get darker before flaking off and getting lighter; this can take anywhere from a few days up to two weeks. After the procedure avoid heat, alcohol, and exercise for 24 hours. Heat refers to both going out in the hot sun and hot indoor environments like a hot bath, sauna, or steam room. Also avoid hot or spicy foods or drinks such as soup, hot coffee, or hot tea. All of these things will bring blood to the skin and may cause side effects such as redness, blisters, discoloration, and scarring. Be sure to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 such as the Elta MD UV Clear sunscreen every day and avoid extended sun exposure for one week after a treatment. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not be treated.
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