IPL Photofacial

What is IPL? 

IPL stands for “intense pulsed light”.  It is done with a device that sends out several wavelengths of light at once, thereby treating several skin concerns.  It reduces the damage from the sun – known as photoaging as well as several other conditions.  

Is IPL the same as laser? 

No.  They are not at all the same.  Laser  is very specific and precise, sending out one wavelength.  IPL sends out several wavelengths, thereby targeting multiple concerns at once such as redness, brown pigment and irregular skin tone. 

What does IPL treat?

• • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Broken blood vessels
  • Skin discoloration
  • Spider veins
  • Light brown spots
  • Poikiloderma (sun damage to the chest)

What areas can be treated?

The most common areas are:

• • Face
    
  • Neck
  • Chest
  • Hands

How many treatments are needed?
This varies according to the extent of the problem but usually 3-8 treatments are recommended, scheduled one month apart.  

This treatment is not suitable for:

• • Very dark skin tones
  • Those who are sensitive to light
  • Those who have seizure disorders
  • Those who are taking photosensitizing medication
  • Skin exposed to sun or sun tanning beds 4 weeks before the treatment
  • Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Those using retinoids, received facial treatments such as chemical peels, waxing or laser within 2 weeks.
  • Those with some auto-immune disorders

Before your treatment:

• • Do NOT go sun tanning or use sun tanning beds for 4 weeks
  • Do use sunscreen every day with a minimum SPF of 30
  • Do arrive without makeup
  • Stop all retinoids and alpha or beta hydroxy products (glycolic acid or salicylic acid) products 1 week before.
  • For the face we suggest using appropriate products to prepare the skin at least 2 weeks ahead to ensure the best results. 

What to expect

A special pair of goggles will be given to you to protect your eyes during the treatment.  You will see bright flashes of light and feel a sensation of snapping elastic bands or stinging. 

Following treatment, the skin can look irritated, similarly to a sunburn, for approximately 4 -12 hours.  We will advise you as to which after care products should be used to encourage healing. 

Sunscreen MUST be worn after the procedure.  After a few days you may notice some brown spots similar to the colour of coffee grounds on the skin.  This is normal and will clear, leaving the skin clearer.  Redness may take up to one month to disappear, which is why treatments are 4 weeks apart.