IPL – Intense Pulsed Light (Photofacial)

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What is IPL?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment can harness the power of light to address and correct an array of skin pigmentation issues. Sometimes referred to as Fotofacial or Photofacial, IPL can also address acne-prone skin, similar to our Forever Clear BBL™ treatment. IPL has been used to achieve the cosmetic goals of patients with varying skin concerns for many years. With IPL technology, men, women, and teens can improve the quality of their skin and experience a boost of self-confidence in their appearance.

What is IPL used to treat?

IPL can be used to rejuvenate the appearance of your skin and address a wide variety of skin conditions, including:

In addition, IPL can eliminate the bacteria that lead to acne, helping to clear up acne-prone skin.

How long does the IPL treatment take?

Depending upon the size of the treatment area, the duration of your procedure can vary. Typically, an IPL treatment for the full face lasts about one hour. Based on your specific goals and concerns, a laser treatment may be used in conjunction with IPL to maximize your results.

What does IPL actually do?

Our Syneron ELOS E-Light IPL laser can target the treatment area with a combination of precise radiofrequency and light wavelengths to produce effective results without harming the surrounding skin. The laser draws pigmented skin irregularities and discolorations toward the surface of the skin before they are eventually eliminated. To treat redness and other vein conditions, the laser is adjusted to target the tiny vessels of the skin, causing the blood to ultimately retreat. Since this unique laser combines radiofrequency and light, the treatment can use a gentle pulse with a lower overall energy output and still achieve excellent results. IPL treatment is considered safe, comfortable, and can provide you with smoother, even, clearer skin.

What is the IPL procedure like?

To help maximize your comfort during treatment, a topical numbing agent may be applied to the skin for about fifteen minutes. You will then be given protective eyewear, and a gel is typically applied to the treatment site. The IPL laser is guided over the gel, delivering an even distribution of radiofrequency and light. After your treatment is complete, you may be provided with a finishing lotion and sunscreen to help nourish and protect your skin.

What kind of results can be expected from an IPL photofacial?

For pigmentation treatments, patients can often expect brown spots to actually become darker after the initial treatment. Since IPL works by drawing pigment irregularities to the surface of the skin, this reaction is an indication that the treatment is working properly. For most patients, three to five treatments are required to achieve the best results.

Is the IPL treatment uncomfortable?

The topical numbing agent applied to the targeted area prior to your treatment should significantly dull the physical sensation caused by IPL. Though your individual experience may vary, most patients report a slight tingling or pricking sensation during treatment.

Are there any common side effects after IPL treatment?

Some patients may experience mild redness immediately after treatment, which typically resolves throughout the day. If you are undergoing IPL treatment for redness or prominent blood vessels, your skin may become pink and your veins may turn darker for a few days as your body recovers from the procedure. Despite these symptoms, many patients choose to undergo IPL treatment during their lunch break and are able to return to their normal daily activities immediately afterward.

Can I reduce my side effects from IPL?

IPL treatment is most effective when you will not be exposed to the sun for extended periods of time before and after the procedure. As a result, the treatment is best suited for the fall or winter. We recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun and tanning beds for four to six weeks prior to beginning your IPL treatments. Sunless tanning, including tanning creams, should also be avoided. For the best possible outcome, protecting your skin in the weeks surrounding your treatment is highly recommended.

What does an IPL treatment cost?

The exact cost of your IPL treatment will be determined by the number and size of the treatment areas, as well as the number of treatments recommended to optimize your results.

Contact KMP Aesthetics

To learn more about IPL treatments, or to schedule a consultation with one of our skin care experts, please contact KMP Aesthetics today.

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