- Acne
- Hyperpigmentation
- Skin Texture
- Rosacea
- Broken Capillaries
- Wrinkles
- Age Spots
- Inflammation and Redness
- Stretch Marks
- Enlarged Pores
- Birth Marks
- Freckles
- Acne Scars
PRICE RANGE: Professional treatments range from $400 and up. Depends on location, treatment practitioner, treatment areas, and laser type.
AVERAGE DOWNTIME: There is no downtime following the procedure, but patients should avoid sun exposure and environments with high heat, such as saunas or intense workouts, for 48 hours.
INTENSE PULSED LIGHT OVERVIEW
WHAT IT DOES:An IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment emits a broad spectrum of light, adjustable to specific wavelengths, which penetrates the skin's layers. The light targets chromophores, or pigmented areas, generating a thermal effect that either breaks down pigment deposits or cauterizes capillaries. When directed to deeper skin layers, this thermal energy triggers collagen fibers to contract and stimulates the production of new collagen, a process that can continue enhancing skin tone and texture for up to six months post-treatment.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is highly effective for treating various skin concerns, including unwanted pigmentation and discoloration. However, visible spots on the skin can sometimes indicate abnormal cell growth beneath the surface. Choosing an experienced practitioner for IPL is essential, as IPL can mask these visible indicators of potential health risks without addressing underlying abnormal cell changes. This masking effect could inadvertently increase the risk of undetected, advancing precancerous or cancerous lesions. Proper skin assessment before IPL can help ensure any underlying conditions are identified and addressed prior to cosmetic treatment. For a milder treatment regime, try the Skin Trusted LED Beauty Mask.
INTENSE PULSED LASER (IPL) FAQS
What are the side effects of IPL treament?
Individual responses to IPL treatments can vary based on age, biological factors, medical history, and lifestyle. When administered correctly, IPL generally requires minimal downtime, and most individuals can resume their regular activities, avoiding only strenuous exercise and direct sun exposure for a period afterward.
Immediately after IPL, a sunburn-like sensation may last for a few hours, while redness and swelling can persist for up to a week. Darkening of pigmented spots is expected as these areas naturally slough off within 7-10 days. Any crusting or scabbing that develops typically resolves on its own, signaling the skin’s natural repair process. For comfort and to promote healing, patients are often advised to use cold packs, calming gels, or balms on treated areas.
Though rare, severe side effects like blistering or signs of infection should be reported to a clinician for prompt evaluation and care recommendations.
How long does IPL last?
The longevity and success of IPL photofacial results depend on various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and age. Patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle and consistently practice sun safety, such as using high-SPF sunscreen, wearing hats, and avoiding peak UV times, may enjoy the benefits of IPL for six months to a year. Regular maintenance treatments and diligent post-treatment care can also help extend results.
Is IPL good for anti-aging?
IPL treatments use controlled thermal energy to create a targeted injury within the skin. While it may sound counterintuitive, this controlled heat stimulates the skin's natural repair processes. The heat causes existing collagen fibers to contract, producing an immediate "tightening" effect, and it promotes the development of new collagen over time, enhancing skin firmness and elasticity.
The IPL wavelengths target areas of concentrated pigmentation, like brown spots or broken capillaries, breaking them down so they can be naturally cleared away. This multi-faceted approach makes IPL treatments effective for addressing age-related concerns such as hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and sagging, making it a popular choice for rejuvenating aging skin.
How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments work by reaching the deeper layers of skin to activate the body’s natural repair processes, leading to gradual visible changes. Though a single session can yield notable results, experts typically recommend a series of 4 to 6 treatments spaced about four weeks apart, allowing the skin to recover fully between sessions. This schedule offers practitioners the flexibility to build on prior treatments and make targeted adjustments for optimal results.
For long-term maintenance, additional IPL treatments may be required, but frequency often depends on lifestyle and skincare habits. Patients who follow sun-safe practices and maintain a skin-friendly regimen may only need one or two sessions annually. As with any skincare treatment, decisions about IPL frequency and maintenance should be made in consultation with a trusted skincare professional to ensure a personalized approach that considers skin type, treatment goals, and lifestyle.
Is IPL the same as fractional laser treatment?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is frequently mistaken for standard laser treatment, though they are distinct technologies. IPL, or intense pulsed light, differs fundamentally from lasers by emitting a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, which makes it versatile and customizable for various skin treatments. Lasers, in contrast, produce a single, concentrated wavelength of light, and fractional lasers break this beam into thousands of micro-columns for targeted precision.
This focused energy makes lasers more powerful than IPL, capable of achieving results IPL cannot, such as tattoo removal or deeper skin resurfacing. However, IPL’s broader light spectrum allows it to be adjusted through filters to target specific chromophores, making it effective for conditions like pigmentation and redness. The broader, gentler approach also explains why IPL is generally less painful than laser treatments, which tend to penetrate more deeply and with higher energy.
The key distinction lies in IPL’s versatility for surface-level skin improvements versus the laser’s concentrated power for deeper skin alterations, allowing each technology to serve specific purposes in dermatology and aesthetic treatments.
Do IPL photo-facials hurt?
During an IPL (intense pulsed light) treatment, a numbing or cooling cream is typically applied to help minimize any potential discomfort. Most patients find the treatment quite tolerable, although pain tolerance can vary. Some describe the sensation as similar to a quick, mild "snap" of a rubber band against the skin. While this feeling may be slightly uncomfortable, it should not be painful or intolerable.
If any patient experiences significant discomfort, it's essential to inform the provider, who can adjust the energy levels to ensure a more comfortable experience without compromising the treatment’s effectiveness. Adjustments to the intensity and application can significantly enhance patient comfort, helping make IPL a viable option for most skin types and concerns.
*Always consult your physician before undergoing any procedure
**Follow all product use instructions and warnings
***If irritation occurs, discontinue use; if irritation persists, consult your physician
