What is IPL/photorejuvenation?

Photorejuvenation uses intense pulsed light, IPL, which uses a spectrum of wavelengths to treat a variety of conditions.  These wavelengths can be chosen by the clinician based on the condition(s) being treated. 

How does IPL differ from laser?

Intense pulsed light treatments use a variety of wavelengths to treat various conditions that lie at different depths in the skin such as shallow age spots and freckles to deeper blood vessels and capillaries.  Lasers use one specific wavelength that cannot be altered by the clinician and are typically designed to treat limited conditions.

What conditions can be treated by IPL/photorejuvenation?

The most common conditions treated by IPL include age spots, rosacea, broken blood vessels/capillaries, port wine stains, and acne.  A series of IPL treatments can stimulate collage and elastin fibers to improve the tone and texture of the skin.

How many IPL/photorejuvenation treatments will I need?

The number of IPL treatments needed is determined based on the condition being treated. Typically, age spots and broken blood vessels of the face will require one to three treatments.  Rosacea usually requires five to six treatments and a maintenance treatment every 3-6 months.

What are the side effects of IPL/photorejuvenation treatments?

The most common side effects after an IPL treatment include redness and mild swelling.  If bruising occurs it may take two weeks to resolve.  In rare instances, permanent pigmentation changes may occur.  To minimize this it is important to not use self tanners prior to treatments, to wear sun block daily, and to minimize sun exposure between treatments. When treating age spots or brown spots they will become more apparent immediately after the treatment and then gradually fall off over the course of a few weeks.  Make-up and moisturizers may be applied immediately after the treatment.

Do IPL/photorejuvenation treatments hurt?

Most patients describe an elastic band sensation or warm needle like sensation during the treatment.  A topical anesthetic may be applied prior to the treatment to minimize discomfort. Afterwards, patients may report a slight sun burn like sensation that usually resolves within an hour after the treatment.