We recommend not using the FAUSTINA IPL during pregnancy. There is limited safety evidence for cosmetic IPL use during pregnancy, and hormonal changes can make the skin more sensitive and more prone to pigmentation changes. IPL treatment is therefore best postponed until after pregnancy.

If you are breastfeeding or have recently given birth, skin sensitivity and pigmentation may still be altered. If you are unsure when to restart IPL, consult your doctor or dermatologist before treatment.

Do not use IPL, or seek medical advice before treatment, if any of the following apply to you:

• Pregnancy: IPL treatment should be postponed during pregnancy.
• Photosensitising medicines: Certain prescription and over-the-counter medicines can increase sensitivity to visible or ultraviolet light. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using IPL if you take medication that may cause photosensitivity.
• Oral retinoids: Do not use IPL while taking oral retinoid medication unless your healthcare professional specifically advises that it is appropriate.
• Recent sun exposure or tanning: Do not treat recently tanned or sunburned skin.
• Photosensitivity disorders or light-triggered conditions: Seek medical advice before treatment.
• Light-sensitive epilepsy: Flashing light may pose a risk for people whose seizures are triggered by light, so medical advice should be obtained before using an IPL device.
• Active skin irritation, wounds or infection: Do not treat affected areas until the skin has fully recovered.
• Cancer treatment, immune suppression, diabetes or other significant medical conditions: Ask your doctor whether IPL is suitable for you, particularly if healing or skin sensitivity may be affected.

If you are unsure whether a medical condition or medication is compatible with IPL, consult your doctor, dermatologist or pharmacist before treatment.

Some active skincare products can make the skin more sensitive or irritated before IPL treatment.

• Retinoids such as tretinoin or retinol: pause before treatment if they cause dryness, peeling or sensitivity, and follow the advice provided with your prescription or by your healthcare professional.
• AHA/BHA exfoliating acids: avoid using them on the treatment area while the skin is irritated or sensitised, and allow the skin to return to normal before IPL.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): this is generally not considered a photosensitising ingredient, although any product causing irritation should be stopped until the skin has recovered.
• Photosensitising medicines or prescription treatments: check with your doctor or pharmacist before using IPL.

Do not use IPL on irritated, peeling, sunburned or recently tanned skin.

After IPL treatment, the skin may appear slightly pink or feel warm and mildly sensitive for a short period. Mild redness or swelling can sometimes last for a few days.

For the first 24–48 hours after treatment:

• Avoid hot baths, saunas and very hot showers.
• Avoid swimming until any redness or sensitivity has settled.
• Avoid scrubbing, exfoliating or rubbing the treated area.
• Avoid perfumed, alcohol-based or irritating skincare products on sensitive treated skin.
• Avoid intense exercise if heat or sweating causes irritation.
• Protect the treated area from direct sun exposure and use appropriate sun protection.

For pigmentation treatments, some dark spots may temporarily appear darker before gradually fading as the skin renews. Do not pick or scrub these areas.

If you develop persistent pain, blistering, significant swelling or an unusual skin reaction, stop treatment and seek medical advice.