Because photofacial can treat excess oil, enlarged pores, and acne scars, some patients who undergo this elective treatment may currently be in an acne treatment plan. If the patient has been prescribed Accutane (a powerful anti-acne medication) but would like to undergo photofacial, they must discontinue taking the medication for at least six months prior to their first light therapy. Patients who tan their skin with natural sunlight or artificial UV rays produced in a tanning bed should cease their tanning activities about 4 weeks before photofacial, as this can otherwise lead to worsening of pigment spots. Topical skin products that exfoliate or bleach the skin or those that contain retinol or glycolic acid should not be used one week before beginning an IPL photofacial. The treatment site should also be clean, hair-free (to avoid the light zeroing in on the strands), and bare -- free of any moisturizer or cosmetics.