| Category Name | Content |
| Name | Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Photo Facial |
| Uses | Non-invasive light-based treatment for improving skin tone and texture, targeting sun damage, pigmentation, vascular lesions, rosacea, and acne. |
| Route Of Administration | External application of broad-spectrum light pulses on the skin using an IPL device. |
| Frequency Of Use | Typically every 3-4 weeks for an initial series of 3-6 treatments; maintenance treatments every 6-12 months. |
| Concentration(s) | Wavelength selection based on treatment goal: - **Pigmented Lesions**: 515–600 nm, 10–20 J/cm² - **Vascular Lesions**: 560–590 nm, 10–25 J/cm² - **Acne**: 420–480 nm, 5–15 J/cm² |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) | One treatment area per session with no overlap of pulses to avoid burns. Energy settings should follow manufacturer guidelines. |
| Contraindications | Pregnancy or breastfeeding, Fitzpatrick V-VI (high risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), recent sunburn or tanning, use of isotretinoin within the last 6 months, history of keloid scarring, active infections, open wounds, or photosensitizing medication use (e.g., doxycycline, Accutane). |
| Possible Side Effects | Temporary redness, swelling, mild crusting, darkening of pigmented lesions before shedding, rare blistering, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), or hypopigmentation in darker skin tones. |
| Compatibility With Other Treatments/Drugs | Avoid combining with aggressive exfoliation, microneedling, deep peels, or laser resurfacing within 4 weeks. Safe to combine with hydrating facials and LED therapy on separate days. |
| Allergies | Assess for allergies to numbing agents (if used), cooling gels, or post-care products. |
| Administration Time | 30-45 minutes per session, depending on treatment area size. |
| Dosing/Settings | Customized based on skin type and concern: - **Energy Levels**: 10-25 J/cm² - **Pulse Duration**: 2-20 ms - **Spot Size**: 10-15 mm - **Cooling**: Pre-treatment cooling gel applied before pulses. |
| Test Spot Requirement | Required for Fitzpatrick III-VI and patients with a history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Perform 48 hours prior to full treatment. |
| Pre-Treatment Guidelines | - Avoid sun exposure, self-tanners, and tanning beds for 4 weeks before treatment. - Discontinue retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and other exfoliating agents 5-7 days before treatment. - Patients with a history of herpes simplex (cold sores) should start antiviral prophylaxis (e.g., valacyclovir 500 mg BID x 5 days). - Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup, lotions, or deodorant before treatment. |
| Provider Clearance Guidelines | - Ensure patient meets all clearance criteria before treatment. - Consult a physician for any borderline cases (e.g., history of scarring, active inflammation, or uncontrolled medical conditions). - Document physician approval when required. |
| Pre-Treatment Screening Workflow | - Has the patient used isotretinoin in the last 6 months? (If YES, contraindicated) - Does the patient have a history of keloids? (If YES, proceed with caution & document risk counseling) - Is the patient currently on photosensitizing medication? (If YES, delay treatment until discontinued) - Has the patient recently had a deep resurfacing treatment? (If YES, delay until fully healed) |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | - **Blistering/Burns**: Stop treatment immediately, apply a cool compress, and document the area. Use topical antibiotics and consider short-term corticosteroids. - **Hyperpigmentation**: Initiate hydroquinone 4% BID and enforce strict sun avoidance. - **Infection**: If suspected, swab for culture and initiate empirical antibiotic therapy (e.g., mupirocin topical, oral cephalexin if needed). - **Severe Pain or Prolonged Redness (>4 weeks)**: Consider short-term topical steroid use (hydrocortisone 1% cream BID x 5 days). |
| Clinic Implementation Guidelines | - Confirm all consents are signed before treatment. - Ensure protective eyewear for provider and patient is in place. - Set up cooling gel and post-procedure skincare products before treatment begins. - Conduct post-treatment follow-up within 24-48 hours. |
| Photographic Documentation Protocol | - Take pre-treatment photos from 3 standardized angles (front, left, right). - Take post-treatment photos immediately after the procedure and at the 2-week follow-up. - Store images securely in the patient’s medical record. |
| Post-Treatment Care | - Apply a soothing gel or cooling mask immediately post-treatment. - Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks post-treatment; use SPF 50+ daily. - Avoid retinoids and exfoliating products for at least 7 days post-treatment. - Redness and mild swelling may persist for up to 48 hours. |
| Additional Documentation Requirements | - Signed informed consent explaining risks and expected outcomes. - Fitzpatrick skin type assessment. - Treatment log including settings used, areas treated, and patient response. - Post-treatment care instructions provided to the patient and documented. |