All of our bodies experience at least some wear and tear as we age, but no part of ourselves receives as much damage as our face. While many of our other body parts are usually protected by clothing, there is a cruel irony that the part of ourselves, which we most identify with, is inevitably the most exposed to sun damage, pollutants, and even the effects of heat and cold.
Fortunately, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy offers a safe, effective, and FDA-approved way to repair and reverse much of the damage that builds slowly over time, despite our best self-care and precautions.* While laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels can be beneficial, they both require downtime for healing as well as other complications, sometimes resulting in an unwanted appearance.* On the other hand, IPL, often called a photofacial, is nonablative, meaning that no skin is removed in the procedure. Rather than risk removing the upper layers of our skin, IPL therapy uses specialized light waves that work deep beneath the epidermal or outer layer of our skin.* This approach proves far more effective for a myriad of skin abnormalities.*
Whether your problem is hyper-pigmentation, sunspots, age spots, birthmarks, fine wrinkles, freckles, sun damage, redness, broken capillaries, or varicose veins, IPL is likely to provide extraordinary relief and dramatic improvement.* The light emitted in a brief 20 to 30 minute session is thought to actually stimulate your subdermal collagen, creating an overall youthful glow.* Many patients will experience great improvement after only their first session.*
After treatment, it’s important to always protect your skin with sunscreen of at least SPF 30, and moisturize to assist new cell growth after your IPL facial. Depending on your skin’s reaction, you may be able to apply cold compresses and steroid creams.
You’ll also need to avoid being in the sun for a prolonged length of time for the entire span of your photo-rejuvenation treatment series—and that includes using sunless tanner. Common side effects of IPL treatments are mild redness, and a tingling sensation similar to the feeling of a sunburn. Apply cool compresses or cool air to relieve any discomfort, and as always, consult our staff with any questions!
Our dermatologists and staff will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to contact us for a private consultation, or you can request an appointment online.
*Disclaimer, results may vary from person to person.
