IPL (Intense Pulse Light) Photofacial is a popular, minimal downtime treatment for the correction of pigment changes and redness associated with facial flushing and rosacea.
IPL works by using light energy from a combination of wavelengths to penetrate into the dermis while leaving the epidermis (outside layer of skin) untouched.
There is no damage to the skin’s surface and patients have only minimal redness and slight swelling immediately after the procedure.
IPL treatments can be performed in the chest, arms and hands as well as the face.
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and reverses the signs of sun damage
- Improves redness associated with rosacea
- Improves the skin texture and pore size
- Stimulates collagen production
Usually, 3 to 5 treatments are recommended to achieve maximum effectiveness, depending on your skin type and color. After your treatment, you may notice the sun/age spots darken, and you may also notice a slight reddening of the surrounding skin. This redness typically subsides within a couple of hours. Then, over the course of 5 to 10 days, the darkened spots will fade and flake off. Using sunscreen of SPF 30 or more will minimize sun damage and prevent the appearance of new sunspots. Changes
Why IPL Photofacial Works
The IPL PhotoFacial laser device works by targeting either melanin (the skin’s brown pigment that creates age spots and freckles) or hemoglobin (the red blood cells). It does this by emitting light waves across a range of lengths that are absorbed by the right target cells. The beams of light pass harmlessly through your skin’s outer layer and are then absorbed by those target melanin or hemoglobin cells. When those cells absorb the laser beam lightwaves, their cell walls are damaged, and the broken bits of the cells—whether they’re a pigment or tiny blood vessels—are then absorbed by your body.
The IPL PhotoFacial laser treatment also increases the collagen in your skin, rejuvenating it and lending your skin the more youthful look you remember. It does this with gentle heat. The light from the laser passes through the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It then gradually and gently heats the dermal cells, skin cells in the dermis, the deep layer of skin. These cells, also known as fibroblasts, are your body’s source of collagen. The heat triggers an uptick in collagen production, which in turn improves the appearance of fine lines and creates that smooth texture you’re looking for.
Schedule a consultation with one of the Changes Plastic Surgery laser nurses to see if IPL Photofacial will benefit you.