What skin characteristic is typically observed after undergoing laser or IPL treatments?

Erythema is characterized by redness of the skin, which is a common response following laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments. This reaction occurs due to the dilatation of blood vessels and increased blood flow to the treated area as part of the body’s healing process. When laser or IPL energy is applied, it can cause minor trauma to the skin, leading to inflammation and subsequent erythema. It is important for practitioners and clients to understand this reaction, as it is a normal part of the recovery process and typically subsides within a few hours to a few days after treatment.

Hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation may occur post-treatment as well, but these are generally less immediate and are often of concern longer-term. Dermatitis, which indicates inflammation of the skin, can also result from laser treatments, but it typically presents with more significant skin irritation or flaking rather than just redness. Recognizing erythema as a standard post-treatment effect helps in managing client expectations regarding their recovery process.