Yes, you can wet your underarm after IPL, but you need to be very careful about the temperature and direct water contact. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Understanding Post-IPL Skin Sensitivity
After an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment, your skin becomes extra sensitive, especially to heat. This is because IPL targets the pigment in your hair follicles and that process generates heat in the skin. Therefore, you need to handle the treated area gently to prevent irritation and complications.
What the Reference Says
Our reference provides specific guidance on showering after IPL, stating:
After IPL, your skin will be hypersensitive, especially to heat. Avoid hot baths and showers. A warm shower should be tolerable, but make sure the water is not directly hitting the skin. Only wash treated areas with cool or lukewarm water for the first two to three days.
How to Wet Your Underarm Safely
Based on the reference, here’s how you should approach wetting your underarms post-IPL:
- Avoid Direct Hot Water: Completely avoid direct streams of hot water on your treated underarms. Hot water can exacerbate sensitivity and cause discomfort.
- Use Lukewarm or Cool Water: For the first two to three days, only use cool or lukewarm water to gently wash your underarms.
- Indirect Water Contact: Don't let the shower stream hit your underarm directly. Gently splash or use a damp cloth to clean the area.
- Pat Dry: After wetting, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
Practical Tips and Insights
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Showering: Take warm showers but make sure the water doesn’t hit the treated areas directly.
- Cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser when washing the underarms.
- Avoid Harsh Products: Steer clear of deodorants, antiperspirants, and other harsh skincare products on treated areas for at least 24-48 hours, or as instructed by your technician.
- Listen to your Skin: If you feel any discomfort or irritation, stop immediately and avoid direct water contact until your skin calms down.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | Cool or Lukewarm |
| Direct Water Contact | Avoid direct streams on treated area. Use indirect methods. |
| Cleansing | Mild, fragrance-free cleanser |
| Drying | Pat dry gently |
| Products | Avoid harsh products initially |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are taking care of your skin after your IPL treatment and avoiding potential irritations while still practicing basic hygiene.
