Intense Pulse Light (IPL)
How Does IPL Work?
IPL stands for “intense pulsed light.” During an IPL photofacial, a light-emitting device is precisely calibrated to target specific skin concerns or to deliver comprehensive full-face rejuvenation. When the pulses of light emitted by this device are absorbed by the melanin (pigment) and red blood cells in the skin, heat is generated. This heat emulates a superficial injury, but unlike a burn, it won’t cause any lasting damage. The IPL device is designed to activate the skin’s natural healing processes without actually harming delicate dermal tissue. IPL therapy will should not cause scarring, infection, or other complications when administered by a qualified professional.
As your skin attempts to repair itself, it will shed its dull, damaged outer layer and form supple, vibrant new skin. During this process, skin-firming proteins (like collagen and elastin) are produced in abundance, mitigating some of the effects of age-related collagen loss. The light emitted during IPL therapy also breaks down the dark pigment inside age spots and freckles, creating a more even skin coloration.
IPL treatments use poly-chromatic (broad spectrum) light to work their magic. This type of light is made up of many different wavelengths, unlike the light emitted by conventional medical lasers, which is usually limited to a narrow band of wavelengths. By adjusting the wavelengths of light emitted during IPL therapy, our specialists can calibrate the IPL photofacial to react with specific skin conditions. The adjustable nature of this procedure makes IPL treatment extremely versatile and easy to customize. This procedure can be used to treat a single issue or to address multiple problems simultaneously
10 Benefits of the IPL Photofacial
With so many options for skin resurfacing currently available, it can be difficult to select the best treatment to meet your needs. If you’re wondering how photorejuvenation compares to similar treatments, like chemical peels, reviewing the unique benefits of the IPL photofacial is a great place to start. Alternately, you can arrange a consultation with our experts to discuss if IPL Photofacial is the best option for you. Ten of the top reasons our patients choose the IPL photofacial are outlined below:
1.Having a photofacial is one of the best ways to treat sun-damaged skin.
2.Photofacials can treat stubborn acne.
3.Intense pulsed light is an excellent way to eliminate visible veins and capillaries.
4.Having regular photofacials can prevent premature skin aging.
5.Photorejuvenation can be performed on multiple areas of the body.
6.The IPL photofacial pairs well with other non-surgical treatments.
The gentle lifting and revitalizing action of the IPL photofacial can be complemented with other non-surgical procedures, especially injectables like BOTOX® and dermal fillers. BOTOX® can reduce wrinkles in areas photofacials can’t treat, like the region around the eyes. Dermal fillers enhance the lifting effect of IPL therapy by replacing facial volume that’s been lost with age. These compounds can also fill in any very deep creases that aren’t alleviated by skin resurfacing alone.
7.IPL treatment offers deep rejuvenation with very little downtime.
8.Photorejuvenation is quick and convenient.
9.The IPL photofacial is very affordable.
10.Intense pulsed light can remove unwanted hair.
How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need?
Depending on your skin type and your concerns, we usually recommend that patients undergo a series of five treatments that are spaced about four weeks apart. In some instances, we may recommend some additional sessions but we will go over all of that in detail during your initial consultation.
How Long Does Each Session Take?
On average, each session takes about 30 minutes but that can vary from patient to patient.
Is IPL Right For Me?
The best way for you to determine whether or not IPL is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with our office. During your consultation we will go over your skin concerns and discuss the different treatment options that you have available to you including IPL.
Does IPL Work On All Skin Types?
Lighter skinned people who don’t use self-tanning products or who do not have a history of excessive tanning respond better to IPL than other patients. However, we will be able to give you a more definitive answer during your consultation.
What Can IPL Treat?
One of the many unique benefits of IPL is that it can be used to treat a variety of different skin concerns including:
- Rosacea
- Facial flushing
- Red chests and necks
- Brown spots
- Sun damage
- Enlarged pores
- Spider veins
What Is Recovery Like?
Typically, patients can go right back to their normal activities including wearing makeup and exercising. We do, however, encourage patients to avoid any sun exposure because it may cause unwanted pigmentation.
Are There Side Effects of IPL?
Usually there are no side effects of IPL but some patients may appear to have a sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Other rare side effects of IPL include blistering, unwanted changes in pigmentation, scarring, swelling, and infection.
Is IPL Expensive
Overall, IPL is more affordable than other treatments. Each patient's treatment plan will vary as will cost. To learn more about IPL and whether or not it’s a good treatment for you, schedule a consultation appointment at our office today and we will get you taken care of.