Intense Pulsed Light therapy, also known as either intense pulse light therapy or IPL therapy in some cases, is a method of removing excessive hair growth throughout various parts of the body by using a form of light administration. Highly concentrated light is beamed upon the area of skin that is affected. The result is that the light causes the hair follicles to cease producing hair, which in turn means that they close up and the excessive hair problem is eliminated.
Recovery Process
Due to the fact that the IPL therapy actually cauterizes the hair follicles and causes them to close up permanently, there is a brief period of recovery after the treatment, during which you may experience sensitivity, pain and other issues as a result of your IPL therapy procedure. Typically, the primary side effect of the procedure is that the hair follicles in question will become sore and slightly inflamed. It's not uncommon for what appears to be a rash to develop on the skin. This swelling and soreness usually lasts for between four days and one week, depending upon the person and the part of the skin that was targeted.
Aiding the Recovery
In order to aid the recovery process, it's a good idea to avoid close fitting clothes. Your doctor may give you topical ointments to soothe the pain and encourage healing as well. Generally, avoid exposing the affected area to the sun for a few days (or weeks) after your IPL treatment as well. Always wear a highly protective sunscreen when you do start exposing your skin to sun.
For more information on IPL, ask a dermatologist.
