IPL Photofacial—Everything You Need to Know and More
A patient receiving IPL Therapy (Also known as the IPL Photofacial)
Shortcuts
1. What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial?
2. How Does IPL PhotoFacial Work?
3. Why Choose IPL PhotoFacial?
5. Preparing for an IPL Laser Treatment
6. IPL Healing and Recovery Process
7. IPL Lasers vs. Other Facial Lasers
8. Frequently Asked Questions About IPL (FAQ)
10. Laser Hair Removal @ The Botox Lady
Did you know Melasma (a fancy term for skin discoloration) affects approximately 5 million people in the United States, often between the ages of 20 and 40—with a prevalence rate of up to 40% in specific populations? These statistics, however, are about to be outdated, thanks to some of the most recent technological shifts, especially in the beauty industry. Though dozens of skincare treatments aim to lessen the look of discoloration, IPL is far more effective than almost all of those combined.
By now, you’ve probably heard the term “IPL Photofacial” floating around. IPL is short for Intense Pulsed Light, a restorative procedure that uses light to address and reverse signs of discoloration and hyperpigmentation. Age spots, acne scars, and wrinkles aren't the only indications of aging skin. IPL can improve the look of rosacea, damaged blood vessels, and several other skin conditions. Intrigued? Keep reading to find out all there is to know about IPL PhotoFacial!
What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial?
The IPL Photofacial is a cosmetic treatment that has the power to make the complexion seem younger and less damaged by reducing the appearance of sun damage. IPL, which stands for intense pulsed light treatment, is also known as the PhotoFacial or IPL Therapy. This treatment uses cutting-edge technology to generate skin that looks firmer and more even in texture and tone. Simply put, it is a non-invasive, safe, and FDA-approved treatment choice for hyperpigmentation that requires little to no recovery time.
How Does IPL PhotoFacial Work?
IPL treatment is classified as a non-ablative resurfacing procedure, which indicates that it targets the deeper layers of skin (the dermis) without affecting the epidermis or the stratum corneum. The effects are not as dramatic as those produced by ablative resurfacing, which involves injuring the dermis and epidermis of the skin to achieve a more apparent overall result.
IPL systems function the same way as lasers, where light energy is absorbed into specific target cells with color (chromophores) in the skin. The only difference between laser and IPL is that each light pulse contains many wavelengths, or colors, while lasers only give a single wavelength. Most IPL systems use filters to hone the energy output, targeting particular chromophores and increasing penetration depth without excessive energy.
Why Choose IPL PhotoFacial?
A quick and gentle Photofacial treatment visibly improves:
Freckles
Rosacea
Birthmarks
Discoloration
Sun Damage
Pigmentation
Varicose Veins
Age and Sunspots
Skin Appearance
Broken Capillaries
Hyperpigmentation
Unwanted Body Hair
Unwanted Blood Vessels
Collagen and Elastic Fiber Production
Awesome IPL Therapy Before and After Photos!
The IPL Treatment Process
Topical numbing cream and/or air cooling are applied to the targeted area.
After that, a handheld device may be used by practitioners to deliver light therapy.
During the treatment, patients may feel a warm, prickling sensation on the skin.
Depending on the treatment plan, the running session time may be around 15-30 minutes.
You may need a set of 4-6 sessions to achieve desired results.
Preparing for an IPL Laser Treatment
Avoid smoking, drinking, or any unhealthy habits at least 6 weeks before IPL.
Apply Ultra Replenishing Sunscreen SPF 40 to protect your skin from sun exposure.
A retinoid should be avoided to prevent skin from becoming too sensitive or irritated.
Before beginning the treatment, ensure that you have consumed enough water.
Stop taking any medications that may increase the risk of bleeding excessively.
Discontinue antibiotics or prescriptions (if advised by a general physician).
IPL Healing and Recovery Process
As previously discussed, IPL is a kind of light treatment in which the light is converted into heat, which then targets the deeper layers of skin to break up the blood cells and pigmentation responsible for skin discoloration. As the treated region heals, your skin will produce healthy elastin and collagen, returning to its natural state and giving you the illusion of younger-looking skin. Here's what to expect regarding healing and recovery post-IPL PhotoFacial.
Redness — 2-5 Days
Bruising — 2 Weeks
Darkened Spots — 3-7 Days
Crusting — 10 Days
Redness — 2-5 Hours
IPL Lasers vs. Other Facial Lasers
Remember: IPL treatments don't actually use lasers. Despite this, it has still been considered a non-ablative treatment (a term well-associated with lasers). This means that it does not cause damage to the outermost layer of the skin, unlike many fractional laser treatments.
Though IPL PhotoFacial and certain lasers may be placed into the same category does not indicate that their effects are comparable in any way. IPL can provide outcomes comparable to other face lasers with a clean and bright complexion; however, it does so with less downtime.
On top of that, IPL PhotoFacial and lasers have several similarities, even though they operate differently. Both treatments are designed to achieve many of the same goals, including removing age spots, unwanted hair, and spider veins, as well as rejuvenation the skin. However, while lasers may be able to complete the treatment in a shorter time, IPL generally requires a series of treatments to achieve the desired results. Note that laser treatment may be followed by a more intensive recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About IPL Therapy
Whether you're looking for IPL Photofacial or other similar cosmetic treatments, finding a reputable practitioner is the first step. Nevertheless, after all, that is in place, you will always be left scratching your head, wondering which to choose. Whether you decide to get it done from The Botox Lady (Voted Fort Lauderdale's "Best Medical Spa" for two straight years in a row) or not, read on to find the answers to all of your IPL Photofacial questions!
Is IPL Photofacial Safe?
The IPL PhotoFacial is one of the light-based treatments considered the safest. It causes very little to no discomfort, and any adverse effects on the skin often disappear from a few hours to several days after the treatment. Blistering of the skin (which goes away within a few days) and, in more complex situations, darkening of the skin, are the only complications that might occur.
How Long Does IPL Photofacial Take?
Depending on the size of the targeted area, IPL might take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Before the treatment, a numbing cream is applied for a pleasant and painless experience. It simply takes around 10 to 15 minutes to do a complete face treatment. IPL demands no downtime, so you can have it done whenever it is most convenient for you—during lunch break, before you start your day, or even just after you get home from work—you can put makeup on immediately afterward.
How Often Does IPL Need to be Performed?
Within a week or two after your initial treatment, IPL PhotoFacial may significantly improve the look of your skin; nevertheless, repeated treatments are advised for most people to get the best possible results. The suggested number of sessions is customized and varies according to the nature and extent of the condition being treated. Some patients react exceptionally well to only one treatment, while others need more than three treatments to achieve the desired results.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for IPL Photofacial?
IPL PhotoFacial is appropriate for individuals of any age with patches of their skin that are affected by UV damage, rosacea, age spots, or dark spots. In addition, it is recommended for those with a red complexion, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and exhaustive pores. IPL has a higher success rate with people with a light to medium complexion and who do not have severe sun damage. On the safe side, it is recommended to check with an aesthetician and discuss the possible side effects.
Who is NOT a Candidate for IPL Photofacial?
Since there is a possibility that the skin color might change following treatment with IPL, applicants for the procedure who have naturally dark or tanned skin are not always ideal candidates. On the other hand, anyone currently taking Accutane should wait at least six months after they have finished their course of therapy before considering an IPL treatment. You may find out whether IPL is the appropriate treatment for you during a free consultation at The Botox Lady.
What to Expect After an IPL Photofacial?
The cost of IPL PhotoFacial might vary significantly depending on variables such as where the treatment is being carried out. There are occasions when it also is contingent on the number of sessions you are expected to complete. On the other hand, you should anticipate spending anywhere from $400 to $1,200 overall.
How Many IPL Treatments Are Needed to See Results?
For patients to get the greatest possible outcomes from IPL PhotoFacial, it is typically advised to undergo, on average, four to six sessions spaced out at intervals of four weeks. About once every 30–40 days, new skin cells are generated by the body as it replaces old ones; the process is known as cell turnover. Therefore, IPL treatment sessions should be scheduled every four weeks to provide the body enough time to heal and return to its natural state before the subsequent treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of An IPL Photofacial Treatment?
As discussed above, the possible adverse effects of an IPL PhotoFacial are typically mild and often go away within a few hours or days. These adverse effects include swelling, redness, and face flushing. On the other hand, when it comes to potential risks, the IPL may cause very mild swelling, redness, and an increase in the appearance of tiny capillaries. After completing all the required sessions, these symptoms will often disappear within a few hours or days.
What Does IPL Photofacial Aftercare Look Like?
Since IPL PhotoFacial leaves the skin more sensitive, The Botox Lady advises patients to wash the affected area with a mild cleanser and avoid using any products that include Retin-A, Retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or glycolic acids. In addition, use a lot of moisturizers since ceramides and hyaluronic acid may help speed up the healing process. In conclusion, refrain from wearing makeup for the first two days after treatment and, as usual, on sunscreen (30 or higher).
The Botox Lady Conclusion
Hands down, IPL PhotoFacial, is undoubtedly wonderful for those with lighter skin tones; however, if you have darker skin, you really must proceed with extreme caution. Although IPL treatments are conducted extensively, including at spas and non-physician practices, it comes with considerable probable hazards and long-term adverse effects if not performed by a trained professional.
If you are in Fort Lauderdale, Try us.
Laser Hair Removal @ the Botox Lady
At The Botox Lady (Voted Fort Lauderdale's "Best Medical Spa" for straight two years in a row), Jessica E. Lauren (aka The Botox Lady) and her team of medical aestheticians, practitioners, and physician's assistants are prepared to develop an individualized treatment strategy to help you achieve the cosmetic outcomes you want. Interested in learning more about our IPL Photofacial? You're more than welcome to come in for a free consultation. Can't wait to see you!
