IPL TREATMENTS

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also known as a Photofacial, is a cosmetic treatment that helps rejuvenate the skin and restore a youthful appearance. Unlike a laser that focuses just one wavelength of light on the skin, IPL emits varying wavelengths of light, similar to a photo flash.

IPL’s light is more scattered and less focused than a laser, treating various skin conditions simultaneously. The light waves penetrate deep down into the dermis (second skin layer) without damaging the epidermis (outermost layer). The skin’s pigment cells will absorb the light energy to destroy and eliminate the brown and red spots over time. The body also produces more collagen as the wavelengths are delivered to deeper dermal layers to stimulate the process.

Photofacials safely and effectively target skin imperfections, with results that improve over time as the skin thickens and becomes healthier. Because red blood cells or the skin’s melanin absorb light pulses efficiently, IPL Photofacials treat the following conditions: 

• Brown spots
• Dark patches or age spots
• Acne
• Rosacea symptoms
• Facial and leg veins
• Pigmented lesions
• Vascular lesions 
• Mild to moderate sun damage
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Freckles 
• Enlarged pores
• Uneven skin texture
• Signs of aging

You might be a good candidate for an IPL Photofacial treatment if you have early signs of aging, sun damage, visible vessels, or pigmentation concerns. The best way to determine your eligibility is to schedule a consultation, so we can discuss your goals and concerns and determine whether IPL is the right choice for you.

We will clean the treatment area and apply a cool gel. We will also provide you with dark glasses to wear for eye protection. A handheld device is passed over your skin, delivering high-intensity pulses of light energy into the dermal tissue. You might feel mild discomfort during the treatment. In addition to slight warming, patients feel a snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band. Depending on the treatment area, the session should take 20 to 30 minutes.

There is little to no recovery time needed. You should be able to resume your activities immediately following your IPL Photofacial. Redness and other side effects are usually mild, temporary, and should fade naturally. It is critical to protect treated skin from sun damage because the skin is extremely sensitive after treatment.

Side effects from an IPL Photofacial are typically mild and temporary. Some patients may see skin redness and swelling similar to a sunburn, soreness, tenderness, and irritation for 24-72 hours. Other side effects are extremely rare.