How does IPL work?
IPL uses light energy to target accurately and remove pigmented or damaged skin cells or hair follicles.
,
How effective is it?
The effectiveness of IPL depends on many things.
It works better on white or light brown skin than on darker skin, for example.
Another factor is the kind of equipment a healthcare professional uses during the procedure.
,
Is IPL right for your skin?
When it comes to achieving healthy and youthful-looking skin, IPL is both an established therapy and a versatile treatment delivering countless benefits.
IPL, short for intense pulsed light, has been around since the ’90s, during which time it has become one of the most common in-office treatments for everything from acne to fine lines.
,
Other options
IPL treatment may not be the best option for everybody.
Some people find it too painful, while others are uncomfortable with the recovery time.
,
Overview
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a cosmetic skin treatment that may help reduce the signs of aging, remove unwanted hair, lighten darker patches of skin, and improve the appearance of scars and spider veins.
,
Preparation
Anyone planning on having IPL treatment should speak to a dermatologist about the potential benefits, side effects, and complications.
,
Recovery
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area may look red or pink.
This tends to last for between 4 and 8 hours.
,
Safety, risks, and side effects
IPL is safe for most people but is not suitable for everyone.
Pregnant women and people who are on blood thinners, for example, should avoid IPL.
,
Uses
People may choose IPL as a treatment for a range of skin issues.
These include:
,
What happens after IPL treatment?
This results from your treatment working properly.
IPL usually leaves the skin red, swollen, and sensitive.
Swelling and redness usually go away within a few days.
The skin may remain irritated for a few days afterward.
Infections, skin color changes, bruising, and blistering can sometimes occur.
,
What is IPL treatment?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, aka photofacial, is a way to improve the color and texture of your skin without surgery.
It can undo some of the visible damage caused by sun exposure -- called photoaging.
You may notice it mostly on your face, neck, hands, or chest.
,
What should I expect before my first IPL appointment?
Prior to your treatment, you should have a consultation with your provider to make sure you’re a good candidate for intense pulsed light therapy.
They may perform a spot test to see how your skin reacts.
Your provider will also give you instructions on what to avoid before your first IPL appointment.
,
What to expect
A medical professional will use a handheld device to deliver light therapy.
During the procedure, people may feel a pinching sensation.
Some individuals have described this as a feeling similar to an elastic band being “snapped” on the skin.