How Do IPL Photo Facials Work?

Date Published: January 2nd, 2020
Blog Category: Photofacials

When we have skin imperfections, we may not feel our most confident. Some skin and facial treatments may use harsh chemicals or abrasion, which can do more harm than good, especially for those with sensitive skin. There is an option that treats a wide array of skin issues with neither chemicals nor abrasion: IPL Photo Facial.

What Is An IPL Photo Facial?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment involves different wavelengths of light being applied to the face simultaneouslyl. The lights penetrate the skin and they effect the cells that produce pigmentation. Light energy is converted to heat, and it destroys the cells that are producing the excess melanin and causing the skin’s pigmentation to be uneven. After treatment, these spots will come to the surface of the skin and appear with a texture similar to coffee grounds. After healing, the spots will come off and new, unblemished skin will be revealed.

IPL treatment works well on the face, but is safe to be used on:

  • Hands
  • Chest
  • Neck
  • Legs
  • Shoulders
  • Arms

Almost any area of the body that you wish to treat can be treated with IPL.

What Can IPL Treat?

The different wavelengths of light used help IPL to be effective in treating a wide variety of skin issues simultaneously. Some conditions that have been successfully treated with IPL include:

  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Sun damage
  • Age spots
  • Uneven pigmentation
  • Birthmarks
  • Freckles

Precautions

It’s important to note that people who have melasma, tan often, or have darker skin tones may not be eligible for IPL treatment. Due to the fact that IPL effects melanin-producing cells, it can discolor darker skin and also make the look of melasma worse.

People on Accutane or other strong antibiotics are advised to wait a minimum of six months post treatment to undergo IPL therapy.

Benefits Of IPL Therapy

The use of IPL is able to reduce or eliminate some of the most common, yet vexatious skin issues. It does not use chemicals or abrasion to achieve these results. The procedure is non-invasive and there is no downtime. The pain of the procedure has been said to feel similar to a rubber band snapping the skin, but bearable.

This treatment also stimulates the skin to produce more collagen as it’s healing. This gives the skin a rejuvenated, healthy appearance. It can also minimize or reverse signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, because collagen keeps the skin elastic, firm, and strong. IPL results take time. It’s recommended to have 3-5 sessions to get the best results.

If you are local to the Seattle or Edmonds area, you may wish to reach out to Seattle Skin &Laser for your skincare needs. You can schedule an IPL session or consultation to learn more about the skincare options available to you.