IPL photofacial is a laser treatment designed to treat age spots and sun damage while reversing the signs of aging. Based on Intense Pulsed Light, the therapy is non-surgical and well-tolerated by our patients. Our specialists use IPL therapy to treat various skin conditions, including sun spots, hyperpigmentation, skin discolorations, facial spider veins, broken capillaries, rosacea, and fine lines. Based on your medical history and skin type, our skincare professionals will assess your skin condition and set an appropriate treatment plan for you to achieve visible results in the shortest period.
What is an IPL photofacial?
During an IPL photofacial, the high-intensity light penetrates the top layer of the skin and gets to the damaged tissues and hyperactive melanin that causes brown spots, blemishes, and freckles. The light turns into heat which is then soaked up by the red blood cells and melanin in your skin.
The high-energy light waves damage the areas where they land and break up melanin. Once fragmented, the melanin starts to fade on the skin’s surface. Furthermore, the damaged hemoglobin stimulates blood flow and facilitates better absorption of melanin.
One of the most appreciated rejuvenation and anti aging cosmetic procedures available on the market, the photofacial treatment treats not only the effects of sun damage on your skin but also stimulates collagen growth and improves skin texture. Moreover, it can be used to treat vascular imperfections, including broken blood vessels and hemangiomas (red birthmarks). The procedure is FDA-approved and can be adjusted according to the patient’s skin type, color, and condition.
What to expect during the procedure?
The procedure is non-invasive and lasts 20-30 minutes. Following a short consultation, your healthcare professional will recommend the number of treatment sessions necessary for the best results. They will assess your skin for various conditions and recommend avoiding certain medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) or activities (tanning, waxing, chemical peels) two weeks before the treatment for minimum side effects.
The duration of the treatment depends on the skin condition and the area exposed to the treatment. Initially, we will apply a topical numbing cream to your face, and you will be given protective glasses. After 20 or 30 minutes, your skin will be ready for the procedure.
Using a handheld device, we will apply the pulses to the areas of concern. You may feel a warm sensation. The intensity of the discomfort depends on the patient’s skin type and sensitivity, varying from a mild sting to the sensation of someone snapping a rubber band on your skin. The treatment is gentle, and since the device has an advanced cooling system, your discomfort should be minimal.
Aftercare
Since it’s a laser treatment, an IPL photofacial requires no recovery time and allows the patient to return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure ends. The treated area may be red and sensitive for a couple of hours and most patients experience a sensation similar to a sunburn. Swelling is also to be expected, but it will be minimal. You can expect your skin to be overly sensitive in the days to follow, so it is best to avoid using hot water until completely healed.
If you have chosen the procedure to treat brown spots, don’t panic if you notice your spots becoming darker than before. This is a normal consequence of the treatment, and they will eventually fade in the days to come. Dark spots can also have a crust and flake, a normal side effect and is always temporary.
You will notice the first results immediately after the procedure. Your skin will look tighter and smoother and will also begin the natural exfoliation process to remove the dark spots. However, depending on skin types and damage, your healthcare professional may recommend up to 3 sessions scheduled 4-6 weeks apart. The results are permanent but can’t prevent new brown or age spots. For this reason, we recommend our patients schedule maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months for long-lasting effects.