IPL photo rejuvenation, also known as a photofacial, is a light based treatment that feels similar to laser, but has less downtime. IPL is a very popular treatment that effectively addresses many skin concerns such as sun damage, freckles, age spots, broken vessels, redness, fine lines and texture. A series of 3-5 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart are usually recommended. There is little to no downtime with this treatment, and results are seen in as little as 2 weeks.
If you are interested in an IPL photofacial, contact Stockton Dermatology in Phoenix AZ today to schedule an appointment!
How IPL Photofacial Works
Intense Pulsed Light Treatment (IPL) causes selective heating of the target (pigment and vessels) with minimal to no heating of the non-targeted tissue. For redness and vascular lesions, the target is hemoglobin. For other skin treatments, such as sun damage and freckles, the target is pigment cells and water.
During treatment, the target absorbs the laser light and rapidly increases in temperature, altering the cells of the skin or vessel. Many vessels disappear immediately and freckling/sun damage will come to the surface of the skin and fall off in 1-2 weeks.
IPL with Levulan
IPL with Levulan is sometimes used when a patient desires a more dramatic resurfacing effect. Pre-treating the skin with Levulan prior to IPL photofacial treatment increases treatment efficacy. Skin irregularities, such as sun damage, uneven tone, texture, Rosacea, and acne, are improved with fewer treatments than doing IPL alone.
PDT is a treatment which uses a photosensitive acid that is applied to the treatment area. An incubation time is required, and then the acid is activated by light. Irregular skin cells are sought out and destroyed during this process. When used cosmetically, Levulan will further enhance the benefits of doing IPL alone.
IPL Photofacial Questions
What Should I Expect After an IPL Treatment?
These treatments with our Stockton Dermatology patients are well tolerated and non-invasive. After your sessions your skin may be slightly pink or red. You may also have some mild swelling on the treatment areas. These effects usually resolve within a few hours or up to a day.
Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, however, so you'll need to be sure to avoid sun exposure for several days, and diligently use sunscreen for at least two weeks. Of course, sun protection is key to limiting the development of future sun damaged areas.
Does IPL Hurt?
When the IPL energy is delivered onto the skin the sensation ranges from a feeling of warmth to something like the slight sting of a rubber band being snapped lightly on your skin. Our Stockton Dermatology patients do not equate our IPL treatments with "pain." Obviously, some areas, such as the forehead, can be more sensitive than others.
Can I Shave After an IPL Treatment?
These are non-invasive procedures and don't necessitate downtime. After possible slight swelling and redness passes, usually within a few hours, you can shave as you normally would.
Can IPL Remove Flat Moles?
Yes, the IPL energy is effectively absorbed by the excess melanin in the flat mole and the energy breaks up the melanin. Initially, the mole turns darker, but this quickly fades. In from 4-7 days the mole usually is shed. Dr. Stockton removes raised moles with different methods.
How Long Do IPL Treatment Results Last?
This doesn't mean you won't develop new spots, however. The same is true with acne. IPL will decrease the acne blemishes, but new blemishes can develop.
How Long Does an IPL Session Take?
Treatments usually take between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Is IPL Safe?
The body tolerates intense pulsed light very well. The only "reactions" are slight swelling, redness, and facial flushing, but these all pass within a few hours or a couple days. Allergic reactions to IPL are unheard of.
Schedule an IPL photo rejuvenation Consult Today!
For more information on IPL photo rejuvenation in Phoenix, AZ, or to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure, be sure to book a personalized appointment with Dr. Toni Stockton! Call our office today at 480.610.6366 today, or click here to send us an Email Contact Form. Our practice looks forward to serving you!
