Before you book your intense pulsed light session, make sure you do not have a tan — even a fake one — as that can interfere with the machine’s ability to target the brown pigment. If you use acne medication like Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid), you should stop it a week or two before your session to prevent extra sensitivity. At the appointment, you’ll be accompanied into the treatment room where you will be asked to lie on the treatment bed and put on some protective goggles while your laser technician applies a cold gel to the targeted area. The technician will place the IPL hand piece against your skin and you will feel a sensation as the light flashes. While most people report minimal pain, some people experience more discomfort than others. If you experience higher than average pain, ask your clinician how to reduce the sensation. The procedure takes around 20 to 40 minutes for the technician to cover the targeted area with the device. They will work inch by inch in quadrants — cheeks, chin and forehead. Even if you experience pain, the brevity of the procedure minimizes the discomfort experienced. After the procedure, your technician will then wipe off the slimy gel and apply a sunscreen.