Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Photorejuvenation is a treatment commonly used for age spots, broken blood vessels, brown spots, redness, and rosacea. IPL devices use different wavelengths of light to treat various skin problems. It is mainly used to treat the face, but it can also be used to treat the hands, chest, and neck. In addition to destroying the pigmented cells that cause red or blotchy skin, IPL also stimulates the skin into making collagen, which fights wrinkles and lines.
IPL works by going beneath the surface of the skin to a deeper layer called the dermis. The IPL device emits short pulses of light that heat and destroy cells to rejuvenate the skin. One advantage of an IPL treatment is that it combines several different wavelengths of light, which enables it to treat different types of blemishes at the same time.
What happens during an IPL treatment?
Treated areas will be cleansed prior to treatment, and a cooling gel will be applied. The patient is then given protective eyewear, and the IPL is held directly against the skin of treated areas. The treatment typically lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. Most patients will require three to six monthly sessions in order to achieve desired results.
Does IPL hurt?
Most patients feel a slight stinging sensation akin to the snapping of a small rubber band against the skin during the process, but anesthetic cream can be applied 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure begins if desired.
Is there anything the patient should do before or after the treatment?
The most important thing the patient needs to do prior to treatment is to stay out of the sun. The IPL treatment can’t be administered to tanned skin, so the patient needs to keep the treatment site covered or otherwise protected while outside.
Similar precautions will need to be exercised for about a week after IPL treatment. Sunscreen should be worn every day, and only cleansers and moisturizers designed for sensitive skin should be used in order to maintain results.
Is there a difference between IPL and lasers?
Yes. An IPL consists of several pulses of light from several different wavelengths, while laser devices used in dermatology emit a beam from a single wavelength. Since it uses just one wavelength, the laser is more precise than the IPL. Lasers, for instance, can be used to remove tattoos while an IPL cannot.
How long do the results of IPL Photorejuvenation last?
With proper care, the results of a series of IPL treatments can last for years. Protecting the skin from the sun to prevent brown spots and other discoloration is important all year round, as people can get exposed to harmful sun rays even during winter. After results are achieved, many people find that they only need one IPL treatment per year to keep their skin free of discoloration.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re ready to experience the skin rejuvenating effects of IPL Photorejuvenation, Ciao Bella Med Spa in Newnan can help. Our team, led by Dr. Benita Stephens, will work with you to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for your needs. Contact Ciao Bella Med Spa today to schedule your consultation.
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