Intense Pulse Light
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What is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL systems work on the same principles as lasers in that light energy is absorbed into particular target cells with colour (chromophores) in the skin. The light energy is converted to heat energy, which causes damage to the specific target area. IPL systems are different to lasers in that they deliver many wavelengths (or colours) in each pulse of light instead of just one wavelength. Most IPL systems use filters to refine the energy output for the treatment of certain areas. This enhances penetration without using excessive energy levels and enables targetting of specific chromophores (these are skin components that absorb light).
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IPL therapy is considered a non-ablative resurfacing technique, which means that it targets
the lower layers of skin (dermis) without affecting the top layers of skin (epidermis). The
results are not as dramatic as ablative resurfacing where both the dermis and epidermis
are injured to produce a much more noticeable overall outcome. The advantage of IPL
therapy is its minimal downtime – a patient can often have the procedure done in their
lunch break and return to work immediately afterwards.
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What can it treat
IPL will treat sun-induced changes on the face, including brown pigmentation, age spots and broken blood vessels. IPL is also used to treat the facial changes of rosacea, including redness and broken blood vessels, acne, spider veins, scars, and large pores. IPL may be used for these changes on the face hands, neck and chest. It is safe, non-invasive and is tailored to the individual patients skin.
Is IPL painful
When the pulses of light are applied to the skin, patients can feel some stinging, however our machine is fitted with a ice cooler which minimises the discomfort.
How is IPL performed
The treatment area is cleansed. A cool gel is applied to the area being treated. Dark glasses are worn to protect the clients eyes from the light. With the patient in a comfortable, relaxed position, the IPL hand piece is gently applied to the skin and light pulses are applied.
Treatments usually take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the area is being treated.
How many treatments will I need
In general patients have a series of three to six treatments, approximately one month apart.
How will I look after each treatment
Most patients experience mild redness after the IPL procedure. Some brown spots may appear darker for a few days then they peel off. You can apply makeup immediately after IPL treatment if necessary.
What is my skincare before and after IPL treatment
It is imperative that the area being treated is not tan the day of the procedure. Other areas on the body can be tan but not the treatment site. Afterwards, it is important to protect your skin from the sun using a sunscreen daily. You should use a sensitive skin cleanser and moisturizer for about a week, then you can resume you normal skin care routine.
How long does the improvement in the skin last
We like to say, you ‘turn the clock back’ with this type of procedure, but the clock keeps ticking! Most people complete a series monthly treatments and then return for a maintenance treatment once or twice a year.
