M22 IPL Aftercare in London, Ontario: Your Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve just had an M22 IPL treatment, first things first—you did great. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses light energy to target sun spots, redness, and uneven tone. Immediately after treatment, it’s completely normal for your skin to feel warm and look slightly pink, like a mild sunburn. Some freckles and sun spots may appear darker before they naturally flake away.
Here’s a simple, safe, evidence-informed plan to help your skin feel calm, heal smoothly, and get the best results over the next two weeks.
Note: Your provider at Infinite Medical Spa London will tailor aftercare to your skin type, goals, and the exact M22 settings used. Always follow your in-clinic instructions.
What to Expect After M22 IPL
• Mild redness and warmth for several hours to a day
• Temporary swelling (especially under the eyes or cheeks)
• Darkening of brown spots that can resemble “coffee grounds” before they flake away naturally
• Slight skin sensitivity to heat or sun for a few days
These are typical responses described in dermatology references for IPL treatments and are part of how the light gently brings pigment to the surface before shedding.
Your Step-by-Step Aftercare Timeline
Within the First 1–3 Hours
• Apply cool (not ice-cold) compresses for 5 minutes on, 10 minutes off to reduce heat and swelling.
• Avoid touching, rubbing, or scratching treated skin.
• Skip saunas, hot yoga, or hot showers.
First 24 Hours
• Cleanse gently: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat dry.
• Moisturize often: Keep skin hydrated with a simple, non-irritating moisturizer.
• Makeup: Once redness subsides, you may wear clean, mineral-based makeup.
• Avoid heat and flushing: Skip alcohol, intense workouts, and spicy foods for about 24–48 hours.
Days 2–7
• Darkening is normal: Brown spots may darken before they lift off. Don’t pick or exfoliate them.
• Keep it gentle: Continue mild cleansing and moisturizing.
• Pause on actives: Avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, scrubs, or at-home devices for about one week unless advised otherwise.
• Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily and reapply often. Pair with hats and sunglasses—UV rays in London, Ontario are still present even on cloudy or snowy days.
Week 2 and Beyond
• Resume actives gradually: If your skin is calm and clear, reintroduce retinoids or acids slowly, every 2–3 nights at first.
• Plan your series: Many people benefit from 2–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
• Continue sunscreen every day: It’s the best way to preserve your results.
Sun Protection: The Cornerstone of Great IPL Results
After an IPL treatment, your skin is temporarily more sensitive to UV exposure. Consistent sunscreen use is key to maintaining your results and minimizing pigmentation changes.
Health Canada and the Canadian Dermatology Association recommend broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, reapplication every 2 hours, and added shade or protective clothing.
Quick Sunscreen Checklist:
• SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection
• Apply 15 minutes before exposure
• Reapply every 2 hours outdoors
• Add a hat, sunglasses, and shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
What to Avoid (and Why)
• Don’t pick or peel: Let darkened spots shed naturally. Picking can cause marks or scarring.
• Avoid tanning beds and direct sun: Increases risk of hyperpigmentation.
• Skip harsh products: No retinoids, peels, or exfoliants for at least a week.
• No heat or heavy workouts for 48 hours: Heat can worsen swelling and redness.
Caring for Different Skin Tones
IPL settings are customizable, but individuals with melanin-rich skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) can have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). At Infinite Medical Spa London, we adjust M22 settings carefully and guide you with pigment-safe skincare and sun protection routines to minimize this risk.
Product Routine Template (Save This)
Morning (Days 1–7)
• Gentle cleanser
• Soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer
• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
Evening (Days 1–7)
• Gentle cleanser
• Moisturizer (or thicker barrier cream if dry)
After Day 7
• Gradually resume retinoids or acids every 2–3 nights
• Continue sunscreen daily
When to Contact the Clinic
Call Infinite Medical Spa if you notice:
• Blistering, crusting, or swelling beyond 48 hours
• Signs of infection or severe discomfort
• New or uneven pigmentation that concerns you
Your provider can guide you with in-person assessment and adjustments.
London, Ontario Skin Tips
• Winter glare matters: UV reflects off snow—SPF is still essential.
• Summer festivals & patios: Bring a travel sunscreen and reapply during outdoor events.
• Outdoor workouts: Keep SPF and lip protection handy on the Thames Valley Parkway.
FAQs: M22 IPL Aftercare
How long will redness last?
Redness typically fades within a few hours to two days. Cool compresses and avoiding heat help.
My brown spots got darker. Is that normal?
Yes, darkening is expected and means pigment is lifting. The “coffee ground” look fades within a week or two.
When can I wear makeup?
Once warmth and redness have subsided—often the same day—you can apply clean, gentle makeup.
When can I restart retinoids or acids?
Usually after about one week, once the skin feels calm and no longer sensitive.
What SPF should I use, and how often?
Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply as directed. Combine with hats and shade for best protection.
How many IPL treatments will I need?
Most clients plan for 2–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, depending on goals and skin response.
Final Thought
Think of your IPL aftercare as being kind to your skin—cool it, hydrate it, protect it from the sun, and give it time to reveal its glow. If anything feels off or unexpected, reach out to your provider. Your skin deserves expert care every step of the way.
