Do I Need An Intense Pulsed Light Treatment And What Is It?

Intense pulsed light treatment (IPL) is a laser-like treatment that is designed to improve: brown spots, red spots, and signs of aging. Some people refer to an IPL treatment as a photofacial or photorejuvenation.

There are many different types of IPL devices and these treatments can be performed at a dermatologist’s office. An IPL treatment takes about 10 minutes to perform. It will feel like little hot pinches on your skin. Sometimes patients are given a numbing cream to apply to their face for 20 – 30 minutes prior to the treatment to lessen any discomfort. During the treatment the patient’s eyes are covered with special goggles because the light emitted from the IPL machine is extremely bright. Immediately after the treatment the skin will be slightly pink and may feel like a mild sunburn.

For the next few days after the treatment your face may be pink and/or slightly swollen. Any brown spots or brown discolorations that you had on your skin will be slightly darker for about 5 – 7 days after the treatment. One week after the treatment you will notice that your skin is glowing, has a smoother tone, and a more even color. You should use caution when doing an IPL treatment in the summer as you should not have a tan when you get an IPL treatment. Make certain that your treatment is being done in a dermatologist’s office to ensure the safest treatment with the best results.

An Intense Pulsed Light Treatment Can Treat: