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How does it work and what is the IPL treatment like?
IPL systems are different than lasers in that they deliver many wavelengths in each pulse of light instead of just one wavelength. This allows the procedure to target several conditions with each treatment. IPL therapy is considered non-ablative, meaning that the top layer of the skin remains intact, thus the treatment is performed without the need for downtime.
The skin is cleansed and topical anesthesia can be used, but is generally not needed. A device blowing cold air gently cools the surface of the skin. During the Photofacial, a hand piece is gently glided over the skin during the 20 minute procedure. The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by either the blood when treating vascular lesions or the melanin when treating pigmented lesions damaging them. The body's natural processes then remove the injured tissue giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance. During the week after the treatment one will notice flaking off of the sun spots and decreasing redness, revealing younger, more vibrant skin
How many IPL Laser treatments are required, at what interval and when can I expect to see results?
The number of treatments required depends on the severity of conditions being treated but typically 3-4 treatments are performed, spaced about one month apart. Results become apparent even after the first treatment.
What are the specific indications for Intense Pulsed Light treatment (Photofacial)?
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broken capillaries
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brown spots
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age spots |
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Rosacea |
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sun damage |
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flushing |
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mild skin texture issues |
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redness |
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sun-induced freckles on the hands, chest, and face |
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spider veins |
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fine lines and increased pore size |
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ruddy skin |
Are all IPL devices alike?
No! Intense Pulsed light systems vary considerably. Basic systems found in spas and performed by non physicians do not have the necessary power to provide the type of results that more advanced systems are capable of producing. Furthermore, they do not have internal safety mechanisms required to ensure predictable and safe results. The older Intense Pulsed Light systems needed a cold gel to be applied to the skin before treatment.
What are the contraindications for treatment?
IPL treatments should not be performed on a patient that is pregnant, has active cold sores or an infection in the skin. Tanning should be avoided prior to the treatment as this may increase the risk of a complication. The risk for side effects in patients that have darker skin types is higher and in these patients we generally advise alternative treatments (see next section). A history of keloidal scarring also presents a risk for any laser or IPL treatment.
What are the options for treating sun spots and broken capillaries?
Other alternatives for treating sun spots include the Medlite C6 Q switched Nd:Yag laser (safe for patients with darker skin), Fraxel laser and Portrait PSR. For vascular issues the Vbeam Pulsed Dye laser is commonly used and can be performed in patients with darker skin.
What kind of treatments complements IPL therapy?
Treatments that work on the texture of the skin are great in combination with IPL therapy.
Examples are Sapphire abrasion, Microdermabrasion , Smoothbeam laser and Erbium Peels.
What is the role of Intense Pulsed Light in treating Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common, chronic condition of the face characterized by redness, flushing, dilated blood vessels and frequently-developing pustules and swelling. IPL treatments are very effective in reducing the signs of rosacea and are often performed in combination with Vbeam pulsed dye laser.
What types of conditions require other technologies?
Sagging skin
Acne scars
Deep wrinkles
Significantly enlarged Pores
Melasma
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