IPL PhotoFacial

IPL Photofacial improves redness, sun damage and skin texture

An IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial treatment is a non-invasive skin treatment that differs from laser, in that it utilizes multiple wavelengths simultaneously in the form of broad-spectrum light instead of a single wavelength. This allows the treatment to target not only sun damage and pigmented lesions, but also broken capillaries, facial redness, enlarged pores and facial flushing. The light energy is selectively absorbed in the target tissues, creating heat, which then also stimulates new collagen and elastin, improving the texture of the skin and the appearance of fine lines. 

  • Patients with a history of sun exposure and the associated visible effects, including fine lines, texture changes, pigmented spots and sun damage will see significant improvement after only a few treatments. This is the treatment of choice for patients with broken capillaries, flushing and general redness, as the IPL Photofacial not only targets facial redness, but also reduces the inflammatory process associated with rosacea. Overall, there is an improved tone, texture, and reflective quality to the skin after a series of treatments.

  • Prior to treatment, your provider will thoroughly evaluate your skin, and choose specific treatment parameters for your skin type and the skin condition to be treated. Each patient’s skin is unique, and the IPL Photofacial allows a broad range of treatment settings to customize the treatment for optimal results. A topical numbing cream is applied to anesthetize the skin, making the treatment more comfortable. After the treatment is complete, an emollient moisturizer and a mineral sunblock are applied to hydrate and protect the skin. 

  • Patients should plan to avoid sun exposure and tanning, as well as self-tanning creams for at least 4 weeks before and after treatment. It is recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure after treatment to maintain the treatment results. Downtime is minimal, with some mild redness lasting 1-2 days. Freckles will initially appear darker, then flake and fall off after a week. Medical grade skin products are used to maintain and enhance the final result, and to prepare the skin in advance. Typically a series of 3-5 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart are recommended to achieve the desired result. Maintenance treatments are typically scheduled every 6-12 months to sustain results and to further boost collagen production.