Pre‑Procedure Photoprotection and Day‑of‑Procedure Guidelines for Reducing Post‑Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Photoprotection Protocol (Pre‑Procedure)

• Patients at risk for PIH should avoid direct sunlight for at least 48 hours before the cosmetic procedure, continue strict sun avoidance up to the day of treatment, and use physical barriers such as wide‑brimmed hats or protective clothing when outdoor exposure cannot be avoided. Sun‑tanned skin must be excluded. 1

Day‑of‑Procedure Restrictions

• Sunscreen must not be applied on the treatment area immediately before phototherapy or laser procedures. Applying sunscreen creates zones of differential tolerance that can burn during subsequent sessions, eliminates the therapeutic benefit of the light energy, and may produce uneven treatment responses. [2][3]4
• Oils or moisturizers should not be applied before phototherapy unless specifically directed by the clinician. [3][4]

Exceptions & Targeted Shielding

• Intentional shielding of non‑target anatomical sites (e.g., unaffected facial skin, genitalia, nipples, recent surgical scars) is permissible when high‑SPF physical blockers such as zinc‑oxide‑based preparations are used. [3][4]