IPL Photofacial or photorejuvenation, is an effective, non-invasive way to treat and reduce mild sun damage, brown spots, broken capillaries and irregular pigmentation on the face, neck, arms, hands, and chest. It uses intense flashes of light that penetrate deep below skin's surface to break down pigment and target hemoglobin (for capillaries) and melanin-producing cells.

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What is IPL?

IPL targets superficial vascular and pigmented lesions utilizing a process called photothermolysis. The areas that deviate in pigment from your natural skin tone will inherently absorb more light than the surrounding areas, concentrating the heat and localizing the effect of the IPL. The concentrated heat results in coagulation of lesions and their eventual disappearance in the following weeks. 

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An improved skin appearance can be noted after the first session. Multiple sessions provide even better results. Treatment regime depends on the severity of skin damage, skin type, type of treatment (vascular vs sun damage) and energy settings.

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What Can IPL Treat?

IPL is safe and effective for light to medium skin tones and can improve the appearance of:​

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• Age/sun spots (red/brown pigmentations)

• Vascular lesions such as facial telangiectasias (spider veins) and poikiloderma

• Rosacea

• Freckles

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Am I A Candidate?

IPL is a wonderful option for those with very light to medium skin. We will not treat areas with an active tan, spray tan, or over tattoos or permanent makeup. If you suffer from facial melasma, IPL may not be a good option for you. Melasma is unpredictable as it is a condition controlled by hormones and may often reoccur. Furthermore, the response in unpredictable at times lesions lightening, or even lesions may darken. We have other options available for the treatment of melasma, such as our PicoSure laser!

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The best way to know if you are a candidate for IPL is to schedule a free consultation.

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The Procedure

During treatment there will be a bright flash of light from the IPL that feels like a light elastic sensation. Redness and a slight warming of the skin are normal after treatment and usually subsides quickly. Over the next 24-48 hours you may see a darkening of pigmented spots. In the week afterwards the pigmented lesions flake off, leading to an evening out of skin tone. After treating vascular lesions you may see the vein blanch and disappear or see a color change in the vessel which dissipates after a few days.

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Consultations

A consultation is required before having IPL. This is the perfect time for you to ask questions, for your laser technician to go over the procedure to explain the risks, benefits, and recovery as well as pre and post care. Certain people should not have IPL, so it is important to answer any questions your technician may ask.