IPL use specialized hand-pieces that filter light from different parts of the light spectrum. Each band of the spectrum has a wavelength that is ideal for different treatments, such as sunspot removal and vessel clearance. The light emitted by IPL is absorbed by pigment in sunspots and blood in visible vessels, subsequently reducing their appearance.
What should I expect during treatment? Your skin will be cleansed before the treatment. A cold tracking gel will be applied to your skin, and both you and your provider will wear eye protection. The IPL hand-piece will be moved over your skin and there will be several pulses of light. During the pulses you will notice a flashing light, an audible tone, and a mild sensation on the skin. A special contact cooling hand piece keeps the temperature of the skin low to minimize discomfort. Some patients say the treatment feels warm and “prickly” at times.
What should I expect after treatment? Immediately after treatment, you can expect your skin to feel like it is mildly sunburned. Sometimes minor swelling can occur as well. This usually lasts 2-24 hours, and can be diminished with cold ice packs. Sunspots/brown spots may darken after treatment and be naturally shed from the skin within 1-2 weeks. If redness is being treated, skin tone will be more normal, with less pronounced redness within a couple weeks after treatment.
How long does treatment last? The procedure can range between 20-30 minutes. Each patient’s treatment time can vary.
Can IPL help remove unwanted hair? Yes. IPL treatments can remove unwanted hair from any part of your body. The pigment in your hair’s follicle absorbs the light energy from the IPL. This destroys the follicle so that it cannot grow. However, your hair grows in cycles, and only the hair that is visible can be treated. As a result, multiple treatments will be required for optimal results. Our patients love IPL treatments because once a follicle is destroyed, it will never grow again!