IPL

• Hyperpigmentation (sun spots and age spots)
• Vascular lesions (spider veins and rosacea)
• Redness
• Large pores
• Acne
• Moderate acne scars
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles

IPL can be used on any part of your body affected by the concerns listed above. Typically, it is performed on the face, neck, chest and back of hands, as these areas are commonly exposed to the sun.

Before an IPL photofacial, our team of skilled and passionate practitioners will evaluate your skin, listen to your concerns, and answer any questions you might have. They will then assess various options for your specific skin conditions and offer expert advice on the most effective approach to attain your desired results.

Ideal candidates typically have light to medium skin tones, as IPL works best on lighter skin with a higher contrast between skin color and the pigmentation or vascular lesions targeted. It may not be recommended for darker skin tones due to the risk of uneven skin pigmentation post-treatment.

Candidates should be in good overall health with realistic expectations about the results. You should not undergo IPL photofacial treatment if you’re pregnant or have a history of certain skin conditions, such as severe acne or eczema, in the area(s) to be treated. Additionally, if you’re currently taking medications or supplements that increase light sensitivity, such as certain antibiotics or retinoids, IPL may not be recommended for you.

To find out if you’re a candidate for IPL treatment, schedule a consultation with our specialists at The Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery.

To prepare for an IPL treatment, avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for several weeks. Also, discontinue using products with harsh ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid a few days before your session. During your consultation, we’ll provide a comprehensive preparation guide tailored to your specific treatment plan.

During the procedure, we will start by providing you with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from bright flashes of light. A refreshing gel is then applied to the treatment area to keep your skin cool and provide lubrication. As the IPL photofacial begins, you may feel a warm sensation from the handpiece, which is often compared to a gentle “snap” of a rubber band.

The number of pulses administered and session length will vary based on the size of your treatment area and the extent of your treatment, but you can typically expect it to last between 30 minutes and one hour.

The number of sessions recommended will depend on the extent of the treatment and your treatment area. While your skin will feel smoother and have a more even tone after a single treatment, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve optimal results.

Generally, most people undergo two to three sessions. These sessions are typically spaced about three weeks apart to allow your skin to rejuvenate and respond to the treatment.

After treatment, you may notice immediate changes in your skin. It may appear red and flushed, and you may experience some sensitivity, similar to a sunburn. Applying a cold compress can be soothing if this sensation becomes irritating. You may notice that tiny capillaries become more visible at first. However, these changes gradually fade after a few hours to a few days. Brown spots may also appear darker initially, taking up to two weeks to exfoliate.

One of the advantages of IPL treatment is the minimal to no downtime involved. This means you can apply makeup immediately after the procedure and resume your routine. However, it’s imperative that you protect the treated area from the sun, especially in the first few days after your IPL photofacial. This can be done by wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and covering the area when direct sunlight is unavoidable.

IPL photofacial treatment results in skin that appears more youthful, with improved texture, smaller pores and enhanced tone and color. You will likely notice an initial improvement in your complexion within a few weeks of your first treatment. As you undergo more sessions, these improvements will become more pronounced. IPL treatments work cumulatively, so each session builds upon the last, leading to gradual enhancements in your skin’s appearance. Full results typically develop within four to six weeks of the final treatment in your IPL series.

The longevity of results from photorejuvenation treatment varies, but they can last a year or longer if you properly care for your skin. For conditions like pigmentation, sun spots and freckles, results can be quite long-lasting, especially if you are diligent about sun protection. However, these types of skin issues can recur or new ones can develop with continued sun exposure. For vascular concerns like rosacea or spider veins, results may vary more. While IPL can significantly reduce redness and the appearance of blood vessels, these conditions are often chronic and might require ongoing treatment to maintain results.

We recommend using a high-SPF sunscreen daily to protect your skin and avoiding direct sunlight when possible. Additionally, adhering to a gentle skincare routine will help promote your skin’s health and enhance the results of your treatments. Remember, taking care of your skin after the IPL procedure is key to achieving and maintaining the best results.

While we can’t stop the natural aging processes, maintenance treatments can help sustain the youthful appearance achieved with IPL treatments. Regular follow-up sessions, perhaps once a year or as advised by your skincare professional at The Center, can help maintain your results.

The cost of IPL treatments at The Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery varies depending on the area being treated, the conditions targeted and the number of sessions required. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of the costs tailored to your personalized treatment plan.