Living in SoCal has its perks, one being nearly year-round sunny weather. But constant exposure to UV light from the sun causes the skin to prematurely age. Our IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial treatment is a safe and easy way to reclaim healthier and younger looking skin by removing dark spots and uneven pigmentation.*
Specific wavelengths of light are pulsed over the treatment area where pigment irregularities are found. The pigment then safely absorbs the energy from the light without damaging the surface of the skin. The pigment will gradually fade or flake off in the next 3-7 days, revealing clear, healthy skin.*
For stubborn redness and broken capillaries, we can combine our IPL treatment with a quick pass of DermaSweep for superior results. The addition of DermaSweep allows clearance of vessels in 1-2 treatments rather than the typical 4-5 treatments without it’s aide.
Our priority is surpassing your expectations.
Patients with sun damage, freckling, broken capillaries or redness are generally good candidates. Patients with Melasma are generally not good candidates. While people dealing with Melasma may occasionally get some clearance of pigmentation with IPL, there is a high chance that treatment can activate and even make pigmentation worse. Microneedling and DermaSweep are better options for Melasma treatment.
I usually describe IPL treatments as feeling like a snap from a hot rubber band. Annoying but tolerable. Fortunately, our device has a cooling tip that pre-cools the skin before firing the warm pulse, therefore decreasing discomfort significantly. There is a very bright flash of light that can be startling, but we always use safety goggles so there is no danger.
Number of treatments will vary based upon age, amount of sun damage present, previous skin treatments, and your diligence with sun protection after treatment. Many patients are happy with their results after 1-2 treatments. However, if you have darker skin or more sun damage, more treatments will likely be necessary.
You can space treatments a soon as 3-4 weeks apart for the initial appointments then maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.
Yes. IPL can be performed on all areas of the body. Generally patients need an increased number of treatments on their arms, hands, and chest for optimal clearance of sun damage.
*Results and patient experience may vary.
Page Updated: | Leslie Petersen has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.