IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Skin Rejuvenation
IPL treatments use light energy to target vascular and pigmented lesions in the skin. With several treatments, these undesirable patches and spots slowly disappear with the body's natural healing process. This procedure helps to restore the skin to a more youthful state. It also treats the discoloration of sun damage and aging as well as red blotchiness from small vessels, redness, and rosacea. Please note that we do not typically recommend IPL for patients with melasma, as this condition may be aggravated and worsen with the light energy and heat.
Our office uses a newer generation device, the Syneron Elos Plus, which combines both light energy (IPL) and bipolar radiofrequency for even futher results. The radiofrequency energy will slowly help to improve the texture of the skin with repeated treatments.
What is the difference between pulsed light and radiofrequency?
These are two different types of wavelength energies that target different areas of the skin. The light energies can target brown discoloration on the surface from sun damage and red blotches from vessels and rosacea. Meanwhile, the radiofrequency energy goes deeper to stimulate new collagen production and improve the skin's tone and texture.
How many treatments will I need?
Depending on the extent of your skin condition and your ultimate desired results, you may require anywhere from 3 to 5 monthly treatments. A typical treatment protocol is at least 3 treatments, performed once a month. Many patients will repeat a session or two every year thereafter to further improve the health of their skin and remove additional sun damage. We can discuss our overall plan with your at your first IPL appointment.
How do I prepare for the treatment?
We have a detailed handout with specific information for you to follow before and after each treatment. For starters, you will need to avoid sun exposure before and after each treatment to prevent any complications. Please contact our office if you no longer have your instructions before your scheduled visit.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. You may feel a warm, prickly sensation as the energy enters the skin.
How long does a treatment take?
Depending on the treatment area, IPL sessions may last anywhere from 20-45 minutes.
How quickly can I return to work?
Most patients resume regular daily activities immediately and return to work the next day. The treated area will be pink like a mild sunburn. This redness typically lasts 24 hours and can be easily covered with makeup. However, we don't recommend undergoing this procedure within one week of an important social engagement, such as a wedding.
How do I know if IPL is right for me?
We prefer to evalute each patient prior to scheduling th efirst treatment. IPL is not right for everyone, and we want you to have the best results possible. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of Dr. Brown's assistants.
