Certified Advanced Aesthetician, Angie Herriges
Are you looking for a way to get rid of those pesky brown spots that have been bothering you for years? If so, IPL (intense pulsed light) treatment, also known as a Photo Facial, may be the perfect solution! IPL is a non-invasive treatment that can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, improve skin tone and texture, and even reduce wrinkles. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how IPL –
- Can help transform your skin
- What causes hyperpigmentation
- How IPL works
- The benefits of IPL treatment
- How to prepare for IPL treatment
- What to expect during an IPL treatment
- Aftercare tips for IPL treatment
- The risks and complications of IPL treatment.
Introduction to IPL and Hyperpigmentation
IPL is a type of light therapy used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of patches of skin due to an increase in melanin production. It can occur anywhere on the body and is most commonly seen on the face, neck, hands, and chest. Hyperpigmentation is caused by a variety of factors, such as sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, medications, and genetics. IPL is an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation as it can reduce the appearance of brown spots and even out skin tone.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin production. Melanin is a pigment that gives skin its color. When the body produces too much melanin, the skin can become darker in patches or brown spots can form. The most common cause of hyperpigmentation is sun exposure, as ultraviolet (UV) rays can trigger the overproduction of melanin. Other causes of hyperpigmentation include blue light (That comes from your smart phones, computers, and TVs) hormonal imbalances, medications, and genetics.
How Does IPL Work?
IPL works by using pulses of light to target the pigment-producing cells in the skin. This light energy is absorbed by the melanin in the cells and breaks it down, reducing the appearance of brown spots and evening out skin tone. IPL is a non-invasive treatment, so there is no need for anesthesia or incisions. It is a relatively quick procedure and can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Before and After IPL Treatment
Benefits of IPL Treatment
The main benefit of IPL treatment is that it can reduce the appearance of brown spots and even out skin tone. It can also help improve skin tone and texture, reduce wrinkles, and address other signs of aging. In addition, IPL is a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime and few side effects.
How to Prepare for IPL Treatment
Before your IPL treatment, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure the best possible results. First, make sure you are not taking any medications or supplements that may increase your sensitivity to light. You should also avoid tanning, direct sun exposure, and self-tanners, for at least 2-4 weeks before your IPL treatment. It’s important to discuss any skin conditions or concerns you may have with your provider before undergoing IPL treatment.
What to Expect During an IPL Treatment
During your IPL treatment, your provider will use a handheld device to direct pulses of light onto your skin. You may feel a mild sting or warmth as the light is applied, but this should subside quickly. Depending on the size of the area being treated, the procedure can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
Aftercare Tips for IPL Treatment
Following your IPL treatment, it’s important to take care of your skin. Avoid direct sunlight for at least a week after your treatment and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 EVERY DAY (Yes, even on cloudy days!). Avoid using any skincare products that contain retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids for at least a week after your treatment. It would be best to avoid hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 48 hours after treatment, as this can increase discomfort of the skin that was treated with the IPL.
Risks and Complications of IPL Treatment
Like any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with IPL treatment. The most common side effects are redness, swelling, and skin tenderness. Also, all those pesky brown spots will get darker. This is temporary and will resolve in 7-10 days. The darkening of the brown spots means you will have great results from your IPL treatment. These side effects usually subside within 24 hours. Other risks and complications include scarring, blistering, and changes in skin color.
Intense Pulse Light Treatment Summary
IPL is a non-invasive treatment that can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, improve skin tone and texture, and even reduce wrinkles. It is a relatively quick procedure with minimal downtime and few side effects. If you’re looking for a way to eliminate those pesky brown spots and even out your skin tone, IPL may be the perfect solution. Call our office to find out if IPL is the right treatment for you.
