Understanding IPL Photofacial Treatment
The term IPL is the abbreviation for Intense Pulsed Light. This term encompasses other descriptions like, Broad Band Light (BBL), Variable Pulsed Light (VPL) and Optimized Pulsed Light (OPL). For practical purposes of this article, we shall use the term IPL to include all the variations of the same. Using a broad range of intense pulsed light to target the reds and browns and eliminating them improves the appearance of the skin. This is termed Photofacial or Photorejuvenation treatment. IPL is administered through a sophisticated device into a handpiece that delivers the light energy to the target areas of the skin. IPL uses broad wavelengths of light, and the most advanced IPLs have several filters to cut off a certain wavelength range to make it more selective. Selectivity of IPLs is less than that of lasers, which have a very specific single wavelength.
Benefits of Advanced IPL Photofacial & IPL Photorejuvenation Therapy in NJ
- Reduction of Pigmentation and Discoloration
An IPL photofacial treatment is particularly effective in treating hyperpigmentation issues such as sun spots, age spots, and freckles. The light energy targets pigmented cells, breaking them down and resulting in a more even skin tone. This makes it an excellent option for individuals struggling with uneven pigmentation and looking to achieve a more balanced complexion. One exception however is melasma. In general IPL is not used to treat melasma due to inconsistence responses and exacerbation. - Minimization of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
While IPL photofacials are not a substitute for more intensive anti-aging treatments, they can help in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The light energy stimulates collagen production, which in turn helps in plumping up the skin and reducing the visibility of aging signs, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance. - Improved Texture and Pore Size
The stimulation of collagen production not only helps with aging signs but also improves the overall texture of the skin. Patients often notice that their skin becomes smoother and softer post-treatment. Additionally, IPL can help reduce the appearance of large pores, contributing to a more refined skin surface. - Acne and Acne Scar Reduction
IPL photofacials with specific filters can also be beneficial for individuals suffering from acne and acne scars. The light treatment helps to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria, thereby reducing breakouts. Over time, it can also reduce the appearance of acne scars by promoting skin regeneration and healing. - Minimal Downtime
One of the significant advantages of IPL photofacials in NJ over more invasive procedures is the minimal downtime involved. Most patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules. Most people notice some redness like a sunburn and mild swelling. - Vascular Lesion Reduction
IPL photofacials are effective in reducing the appearance of vascular lesions, such as spider veins and rosacea. The treatment targets the blood vessels causing these issues, reducing redness and improving skin clarity. - Long-lasting Results
With a series of treatments, the results of IPL photofacials can be long-lasting. Patients enjoy clearer, more youthful-looking skin for months or even years after their treatments, especially when following a maintenance schedule and proper skincare regimen.
What to Expect During and After IPL Photofacial Treatment
IPL treatments typically last between 30 to 90 minutes. The process involves converting light to heat to penetrate the skin’s deeper layers, breaking up pigmentation and red blood cells and blood vessels that are causing discoloration. Most patients find the sensation mildly uncomfortable, often described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin. The procedure is generally safe, conducted by experienced medical professionals using protective measures for the eyes and applying a transmission gel or cooling gel to the skin.
Immediately After Treatment
Right after an IPL session, it’s common for the skin to appear sunburnt, which may include mild swelling. However, this redness typically begins to fade within 24-48 hours. Patients can resume normal activities almost immediately, and applying makeup is also possible if the redness has subsided. Despite the minimal downtime, it’s crucial to follow aftercare instructions carefully to optimize healing and achieve the best results.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period varies among individuals, but certain aftercare steps are recommended for everyone. It’s crucial to avoid very hot water, sun exposure, and strenuous exercise for the first 72 hours. Sometimes the treated skin might experience scabs or blisters; however, these should not be picked at. Most of these subside within a few days, although some blemishes may darken before eventually fading to a lighter appearance.
To minimize IPL photofacial side effects and promote healing, avoid using harsh skincare products, harsh exfoliation with brushes, protect the skin from sun exposure with a minimum SPF 50 physical sunscreen, and keep the skin well moisturized. A gentle cleanser and moisturizer (without any acid) should be used, and ice packs can be applied to reduce swelling. It’s also advisable to sleep with an extra pillow to minimize swelling and avoid chemical peels, microneedling, microdermabrasions and hair removal methods for 2-4 weeks.
Proper aftercare is essential. Most side effects result from not adhering to after care instructions. Following the guidelines for recovery will help ensure that you experience the full benefits of the treatment with minimal discomfort or risk of complications.
Schedule Your IPL Photofacial Consultation Today with Anara MedSpa
Unlock the secret to radiant, youthful skin with IPL photorejuvenation at Anara Medspa. Whether you’re looking to diminish the appearance of age spots, reduce redness, or restore your skin’s natural glow, our state-of-the-art IPL treatment is your answer. Our experienced team, led by skilled professionals, ensures a comfortable, safe, and effective treatment experience, tailored to meet your unique skin needs. Don’t let another day go by feeling anything less than confident in your skin. Schedule your IPL photorejuvenation consultation at Anara Medspa today and step into a brighter, more beautiful version of you. Visit us online or call now to book your appointment and begin your journey to flawless skin.
FAQ about IPL Photofacial Therapy in New Jersey
IPL Photorejuvenation treatment is ideal for people with lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick 1 to 3 and some light 4s) who have broken capillaries, rosacea, acne rosacea, and sun-spots. IPL Photorejuvenation is not suitable for darker skin types (dark 4 to 6) due to excessive melanin in the skin. It is also not suitable for melasma which can be made worse by IPL Photofacial. We recommend a consultation and full assessment prior to the procedure.
The procedure for a full face takes approximately 45-60 minutes and can be done as a lunch time procedure due to minimal down time.
Usually, most people have minimal discomfort with IPL sessions, and it feels like rubber-band snaps. When higher power needs to be used, a prior application of numbing cream would be beneficial. Compared to medical grade chemical peels, there is minimal to no downtime with this procedure.
Once the IPL Photorejuvenation is found to be the right option, we recommend 4-6 sessions done every 4-6 weeks intervals or until the desired results are achieved. After that maintenance sessions once in 4 months would suffice to prolong the benefits achieved.
As with most skin treatments avoiding UV exposure of any source prior and in between sessions is essential for safety and best results. Spray tanning also should be avoided. There should be no make up prior to the procedure. Using sunscreen is a must between the sessions. After IPL procedure face masks should be avoided or minimized for about 5 days to prevent bacteria from the mouth getting on the treated skin via the contaminated mask. Makeup may be used after the procedure but we recommend a 100% mineral powder makeup. Its better to use a newly opened makeup to minimize contamination.
Not all IPL devices are made the same. The machines can be cheap quality ones costing a couple of thousand dollars made in some eastern countries, to some costing six figures which have state of the art delivery system, several electronic sensors, efficient cooling system, very specific filters, photon recycling methods, and sophisticated safety mechanisms. Hence if someone says, “I had IPL treatments in the past” does not mean anything unless we know the type of device, and the parameters used and if these devices are serviced regularly. Hence getting a full assessment and consultation with a qualified physician will go a long way in choosing the right treatment.
When done by an experienced medical professional on the right patient, IPL is very rewarding for reds, browns and uneven skin tone and overall skin rejuvenation. Not everyone is suitable for IPL photofacials and individual results and number of sessions needed to achieve the desirable outcome vary. Certain conditions like rosacea and acne need ongoing maintenance sessions to control the flare up.
While IPL is a great option to rejuvenate the skin and reduce the imperfections, it is not suitable for darker skin types, especially Fitzpatrick dark 4, 5 and 6. Hence it is crucial to get evaluated with an experienced physician who understands the physics of lasers and light, and the biological interaction of these with the skin.
Brown spots from sun damage, do not come back, until you have further UV exposure again. Hence it is important to follow sun protection protocol and avoiding direct and prolonged sun exposure. In some patients combined treatment with IPL, and medical grade chemical peels will give superior and long lasting results, especially when the home skin care is followed diligently.
