An IPL photofacial non-invasively rejuvenates skin utilizing an IPL. IPL stands for intense pulsed light. It is a laser-like device that rejuvenates the skin by emitting a high energy flash of light that gets absorbed by areas of uneven skin tone.
Before
After
The IPL is the treatment of choice for evening out irregular skin tones caused by red and brown discolorations. It gets its name, Photofacial, because it enhances the quality of the skin using light based energy.
In addition to reducing discolorations, an IPL treatment is probably the single best way to re-invigorate the skin. The IPL has been shown to build collagen in the skin which helps keep the skin looking great.
A study published in Cosmetic Dermatology actually showed that regular IPL treatments can actually keep you looking younger!
How it works
With each pulse of the IPL, a bright flash of light is produced. This light is absorbed by any red or brown discoloration in the skin and triggers a healing response. The areas of red and brown discoloration fade as a result of the healing response.
Common causes of red discoloration include dilated capillaries, rosacea, and generalized redness from sun damage. Brown marks are often from sun spots or melasma.
Many areas can be treated with the IPL including the face, neck, chest, arms, legs, and hands.
What is treatment like?
An IPL treatment is a minor procedure performed in the office. No anesthesia is required; however, numbing cream can be applied if desired.
Each pulse of the IPL lasts a split second, so it only takes a few minutes to treat an entire area.
Oftentimes, the IPL is combined with the Vbeam and other lasers to enhance the treatment result.
Immediately afterward, the treated areas can be more red than usual for a few minutes to a few hours. However, make-up can be applied right away. There is no damage to the skin during treatment, so healing happens on a microscopic level.
During the few weeks after treatment, some of the brown spots in the area may become a little darker in color and form a small crust. These can usually be covered with make-up and fall off by themselves.
One should protect their skin from the sun after treatment.
How to prepare for an IPL Photofacial treatment
For the safest and best results, skin should not be tanned. Also, avoid self tanners because these can absorb more energy than would be anticipated which may result in damage to the skin. Also, the skin cannot be treated if there is any make-up, lotion, or sunscreen on it. We can remove it at the visit, but it is best to avoid using it prior to treatment if possible.
