Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is also known as a Photofacial. It is a technology used by cosmetic practitioners to perform skincare treatments for therapeutic and aesthetic purposes. An IPL procedure uses the power of broadband light to reduce the appearance of rosacea, age spots, sunspots, freckles, and improve skin texture. It is a popular treatment because it’s very affordable, effective, non-invasive and requires no downtime.
What Does IPL Do for Your Skin?
A handheld device is passed across the skin by one of our highly trained laser technicians. This device delivers pulses of broad-spectrum light to the deep layers of the skin. The fact that this device employs light to influence the skin on a molecular level means that there are no injections or incisions. The device targets specific skin areas and specific skin concerns.
What Can IPL Treat?
IPL is attracted only to the brown and red pigment in the skin, but there are many conditions it can help. These include:
- Common brown or red blemishes
- Sunspots
- Rosacea
- Cherry hemangioma
- Hormonal pigmentation
- Age spots
- Vascular redness
- Broken blood vessels
- Freckles
- Melasma
IPL can effectively treat discoloration from acne, but it is not an ideal treatment if acne is an ongoing problem. The procedure is most commonly used on the face, but can also be used on the neck, chest, and even on your hands.
Is IPL Painful?
The pain level experienced depends on your pain threshold. Some people describe the pain level as mild discomfort or as if tiny rubber bands are flicking the surface of the skin. If your pain threshold is low, your esthetician can apply a topical numbing cream before your treatment is done. One of the most significant benefits of IPL is that there’s no recovery or downtime. After you get your Photofacial done, you can go about your regular activities following your treatment.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After IPL?
Right after the treatment, makeup can gently be applied and removed. You’ll want to avoid any harsh skincare products for a couple of days following your treatment.
For more information on IPL or to schedule a consultation to see if an Intense Pulsed Light procedure is right for you, contact BodyLase at 919-954-2288 (Raleigh) or 919-851-8989 (Cary).
