Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, very dark skin, recent sun exposure/tanning, photosensitizing medications (like Roaccutane, certain antibiotics), active skin infections, epilepsy, autoimmune conditions (lupus), history of keloid scarring, and certain moles/tattoos in the treatment area, as the light can worsen these conditions or cause burns. It’s crucial to disclose all medical conditions and medications to your provider for a proper assessment before treatment. 

• Burns and Blisters: If energy levels are too high or the skin isn’t prepared properly, leading to pain, redness, and potential scarring.
• Pigmentation changes: Darkening (more common in darker skin) or lightening of the skin, which can sometimes be permanent.
• Scarring: Can occur from burns or poor healing.
• Infection: Especially if the skin barrier is compromised.
• Increased hair growth: Incorrect settings can paradoxically stimulate hair growth. 

• Eye Damage: Serious injury, including vision impairment, retinal detachment, or macular holes, if protective eyewear (goggles or shields) isn’t used. 

• Infection Trigger: Can activate dormant viruses like cold sores or cause acne flare-ups.
• Allergic reactions: To topical creams used before treatment.
• Making skin cancer: Treating suspicious moles with IPL can hide melanoma, delaying diagnosis. 

• Skin Tone: Darker skin types are at higher risk for burns and pigmentation changes.
• Untrained Operators: Using incorrect energy settings for a specific skin type or condition. 

You can return to work and normal activities straight after your treatment, but expect temporary redness, warmth, and darkening of pigmentation (like “coffee grounds”) for 1-2 weeks as skin exfoliates; avoid sun, heat, and heavy sweating for a few days, use SPF religiously, and don’t pick at skin as it flakes.