Vascular Laser Treatments: Downtime and Aftercare by Protocol
Vascular work (telangiectasia, diffuse redness) has minimal downtime when parameters match vessel depth — and days of swelling when they do not. This guide sets downtime expectations per protocol so front desks can book realistically.
Downtime by Treatment Type
| Protocol | Visible marks | Social downtime |
|---|---|---|
| IPL/DPL flush (diffuse redness) | Mild pinkness, few hours | None |
| DPL on fine vessels | Slight darkening of vessels, 3-7 days | Minimal — concealable |
| Long-pulse 1064 on coarse vessels | Urtication, possible bruising, 5-10 days | Plan around events |
The 48-Hour Rulebook
- No heat: hot showers, saunas, spicy food, alcohol — vasodilation re-fills treated vessels
- Cool compresses for warmth, no active creams on treated zones
- SPF 50+ — UV re-triggers the vessels you just cleared
Booking Guidance
Schedule vascular work at least two weeks before major events. Sessions every 3-4 weeks, typically 1-3 for superficial vessels. The narrowband DPL and OPT platforms with square-pulse control minimize purpura risk on facial work — purpura is the one vascular \”downtime\” clients remember.