As you look in the mirror do you see sun spots, age spots, melasma, redness, or freckles? These discolorations are from years of exposure to the sun. These same discolorations are what make us gasp and wonder why our skin looks older than we feel. Or maybe these are the spots we see when we look at our hands and see our Mom’s hands instead.
The good news is that Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is an amazing treatment that clears brown spots and redness with minimal downtime and discomfort. IPL is a versatile, non-invasive procedure that targets various skin concerns, including sun damage, age spots, and facial redness. Whether you’re looking to revitalize your complexion or address specific skin issues, IPL is a powerful solution to help you achieve glowing, youthful skin.
At Columbia Laser Skin Center in The Dalles, Oregon, we proudly offer IPL as part of our comprehensive range of aesthetic treatments.
The IPL (Intense Pulse Light) is an amazing treatment that clears brown spots and redness with minimal downtime and discomfort. The IPL can be used to treat any area of the body. After 3–6 treatments your skin will have a radiant, even skin tone. And best of all, you will look as great as you feel!
IPL therapy uses a broad spectrum of light to target and treat discoloration, redness, and uneven skin tone. Unlike traditional laser treatments, which use a single wavelength of light, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths, allowing it to address a variety of skin concerns in one session. This makes it highly versatile and effective for improving overall skin texture and tone.
IPL works by penetrating the skin’s layers to break down excess pigmentation and dilated blood vessels. It also stimulates collagen production, which helps to improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness over time. The result? Smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments offer numerous benefits for those looking to improve their skin’s appearance and address specific concerns. Below are the top advantages of IPL, expanded for a more detailed look:
IPL effectively targets and breaks down excess melanin in the skin, fading age spots, sunspots, and freckles. Over time, this leads to a brighter and more even complexion, helping reverse years of sun damage.
Whether you have rosacea, vascular lesions, or redness from sun damage, IPL can reduce redness by targeting dilated blood vessels. This treatment restores balance to your skin tone, leaving it clearer and more uniform.
By stimulating collagen production, IPL improves skin tone and texture while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes your skin appear smoother, firmer, and naturally more youthful.
IPL treatments require no incisions, anesthesia, or extended recovery time. The procedure is gentle, making it a convenient option for skin rejuvenation without the need for surgery.
This treatment isn’t limited to the face—it can be used on the neck, chest, hands, and other areas of the body. IPL’s versatility makes it ideal for addressing discoloration and redness across multiple regions.
Most patients experience only mild redness or darkening of spots after treatment, which resolves within days. You can quickly return to your daily routine, making IPL a low-maintenance option for busy lifestyles.
By combining targeted results with convenience and minimal downtime, IPL is an exceptional choice for skin rejuvenation tailored to your unique concerns.
IPL is suitable for a wide range of individuals and skin concerns. You may be a good candidate if you:
It’s essential to note that IPL may not be ideal for those with very dark skin tones or active skin infections. A consultation at Columbia Laser Skin Center will help determine if IPL is the right choice for your needs.
Consultation: During a personalized consultation, our team will evaluate your skin type and discuss your concerns and goals. This helps us craft a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Preparation: On the day of your treatment, the targeted area will be thoroughly cleansed to ensure optimal results. A cooling gel may be applied to enhance comfort during the procedure. Protective eyewear is provided to shield your eyes from the bright light pulses.
Treatment: Using the IPL device, controlled pulses of light are directed at the skin. While some describe the sensation as a gentle snap or warmth, the procedure is designed to be as comfortable as possible. Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
Aftercare: Following your treatment, our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. These include tips for sun protection, recommended skincare products, and guidelines to avoid heat exposure for a day or two.
There is minimal downtime with IPL treatments. Darkened brown spots or discoloration can be covered with makeup if desired. Typically, darkening and discoloration is most evident after the first treatment and is less obvious with subsequent treatments.
Recovery is typically quick and hassle-free. Here’s what you can expect:
Mild Redness and Sensitivity: Some redness or sensitivity is common immediately after treatment but usually subsides within a day.
Peeling or Flaking: Darkened spots may flake off naturally over 7–14 days, revealing fresh, radiant skin underneath.Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 48 hours, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to maintain your results.
With proper aftercare, your skin will continue to improve in the weeks following treatment.
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Most patients see optimal results after 3–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart. The exact number of sessions depends on your unique skin concerns, such as the depth of discoloration or redness being treated.
The most common (and expected) side effect is a darkening of the more superficial brown spots of the areas being treated. This darkening will flake off after about 7–14 days, leaving the skin with a brighter and more even tone.
Yes, IPL is FDA-approved and safe when performed by trained professionals like those at Columbia Laser Skin Center. Our experienced team ensures that each treatment is customized to your skin type for the best and safest results.
The sensation of the IPL is a mild stinging sensation. A bright light will be evident even though your eyes are completely protected with IPL eye shields. Anesthetics are typically not required. Afterwards, there can be a mild “sunburn” sensation that usually goes away after 1–2 days.
Many patients notice an improvement in skin tone and texture within a week of their first session. Subsequent treatments will enhance these results, offering progressively clearer and more radiant skin.
IPL is versatile and can be used on multiple areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, hands, arms, and even legs. It’s excellent for treating discoloration and redness in both small and large areas, helping to restore an even skin tone.
While IPL is most effective on lighter skin tones with darker pigmentation, advances in technology have made it possible to safely treat a broader range of skin types. A consultation is essential to determine your suitability for IPL and to customize the treatment to your needs.
Yes! IPL pairs well with chemical peels, microneedling, and other rejuvenation procedures for enhanced results. Combining treatments allows for a comprehensive approach to skin improvement, targeting multiple concerns simultaneously.
With proper skincare and sun protection, IPL results can last for years. Maintenance treatments may be recommended annually to preserve your radiant complexion and address new discoloration as it appears.
Before treatment, avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for at least two weeks. After treatment, continue to avoid direct sun exposure, apply sunscreen diligently, and refrain from using exfoliating products for a few days.
A typical session lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
Yes, IPL can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, making it an effective option for managing active breakouts and minimizing acne scars.
Yes, IPL stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and improve overall skin texture.
While you may not experience significant peeling, some patients notice mild flaking as the treated pigment naturally sloughs off, revealing brighter, clearer skin beneath.
You can usually apply makeup the day after your treatment, provided your skin feels comfortable. Our team will give you specific post-treatment recommendations based on your skin’s response.
IPL is suitable for adults of all ages who want to address pigmentation, redness, or signs of aging. It’s particularly beneficial for those experiencing sun damage accumulated over time.
For nearly two decades, Columbia Laser Skin Center has been a trusted provider of advanced aesthetic treatments. Here’s why patients choose us:
Expertise: Our licensed providers are highly trained and experienced, ensuring safe and effective results.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We use the best IPL systems available to deliver superior outcomes.
Personalized Care: Every client receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.
Relaxing Environment: Our spa-like atmosphere provides a calming and rejuvenating experience.
Intense Pulsed Light treatment offers a powerful, non-invasive solution for discoloration, redness, and uneven skin tone. At Columbia Laser Skin Center in The Dalles, Oregon, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve beautiful, glowing skin with IPL.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident you. Let us guide you on your journey to radiant, healthy skin.
