My appointments are always after work, at say 6pm.
My face is usually a bit red for the rest of the night, blotchy in some places. It's not hideous, but it's noticeable that my skin is irritated. Two hours later it's usually a little less red but still noticeably irritated. The next morning I look as good as new.
It's important to note that everyone's skin reacts differently though, so your own experience may be better or worse.
It's important to go to a trained/specialist laser technician. I've read about some bad experiences with businesses that are primarily beauticians but have a laser out the back.
Also, having read much of the scientific literature when researching my own hair removal, it's clear to me that IPL is far less effective than laser for the majority of people. That does not mean that there aren't people who've had great results with IPL, but many many many more haven't. Given how short you are of money there's no point spending money only to be disappointed in the results.
All in all I've found laser has made a big, lasting difference to my facial hair.
