One of our most popular facial treatments this time of year is the Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photofacial rejuvenation. It is an aesthetic treatment that uses broadband light to help promote a glowing complexion and treat unwanted hair, pigmentation, unsightly capillaries, and redness. If you’ve noticed any brown spots, pigmentation, or redness from the summer months, this is the ideal time to seek treatment for them since the cooler months will give your skin a little break from the sun. Read on to see how IPL works and how it can treat a range of skin concerns. 

How IPL Works

IPL is a non-invasive treatment that uses high intensity pulses of visible light to improve your skin’s appearance. It works by converting therapeutic broadband light into a super gentle heat energy that is directed at the affected areas. Examples include melanin, the brown pigment in sun and age spots, or the “broken” blood vessels that cause facial redness. This process destroys these flaws without compromising surrounding healthy tissue. A light beam passes through the skin, penetrates the cells that are causing skin discoloration, and damages the blood vessel or pigmented area. Then the body absorbs the miniscule vessel or pigment molecule, making the discoloration less visible.

What IPL Treats

 IPL therapy improves the appearance of skin by treating the following:

• Age spots, discoloration, and dark patches from the sun

• Pigmentation

• Redness, rosacea, dilated blood vessels and “broken” blood vessels

• Rough, bumpy skin

One of the ways in which IPL therapy benefits skin texture is by stimulating collagen production. Light bypasses the outer layer of the skin and gently heats the cells (called fibroblasts) located in the deeper layer of skin. The fibroblasts begin producing more collagen, which leads to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increased elasticity, and enhanced skin tone. Collagen’s amino acids also moisturize the skin, keeping it smooth and supple.

As always, be sure to listen closely to the discharge instructions that are given by your aesthetician, and adhere to them for the duration of your recovery. After the treatment, you’ll want to wear sunscreen every morning, as well as hats, to protect your skin from future damage. Too much sun exposure immediately following the procedure may also negate the positive effects of your treatment.  

Want to learn more about IPL photofacial treatments? Our team at Leah Nickie ADVANCED AESTHETICS would love to walk you through the process and answer any questions that you may have. Your first visit will involve a careful health history to determine your skin type and the appropriate treatment plan for you. Careful test pulses are then performed to determine the safest and most effective treatment parameters. Schedule your free consultation today!

Feature photo via Pexels