What is IPL Laser?

IPL treatment, or intense pulsed light therapy, is used to treat unwanted pigmentation on the skin. This unwanted pigmentation can be from sun damage, melasma, scars, broken capillaries, and hyperpigmentation from acne or brown spots. The intense pulsed light technology targets these areas of pigment with light energy without damaging the surrounding skin and draws it closer to the surface of the skin with each treatment, where, eventually, it will flake off, leaving you with clearer, more even skin. The light pulses from the IPL device are also able to address some texture as well, so you may also notice that fine lines and acne scar depressions can be improved as well due to the increased collagen production. Overall, the intense pulsed light emits light waves to the targeted areas to improve discoloration and redness and provide full skin rejuvenation.

Who is a Candidate?

Intense pulsed light treatments can be used to treat a wide variety of skin condition that causes pigmentation issues in the skin. Patients experiencing rosacea (skin redness), hyperpigmentation (or pigmented lesions), sun spots, uneven skin texture, vascular lesions, and scars such as stretch marks are good candidates for this laser treatment for the purpose of reducing unwanted pigmentation in the skin. The number of treatment sessions needed will vary by the size of the treatment area, as well as the severity of the pigmentation. Candidates for these laser treatments will be consulted by Dr. Sweat regarding a proper treatment plan for their unique skin care needs. For most conditions, patients can expect to undergo anywhere between two and six procedures with four weeks in between.

Results

For best results with IPL therapy, patients should avoid unprotected sun exposure during and after laser therapy treatments. IPL treatments are able to reverse pigmentation, so they will provide improvement until further aging or further effects of skin conditions show up. In general, the results are long-lasting; but it is important that the patient properly protects their skin as well as stay in contact with Dr. Sweat’s office to schedule maintenance treatments each year, particularly after a season of increased sun exposure.