What Is Intense Pulsed Light Treatment?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses light energy to improve the appearance of your skin. It’s a non-invasive treatment designed to address a variety of skin concerns, making it a go-to solution for people looking to refresh and rejuvenate their skin without the need for surgery.
IPL is widely used to help with skin discolouration, such as sunspots and redness, as well as to treat conditions like rosacea or visible veins. It’s also a great option for those seeking smoother, more even-toned skin or a long-term solution for hair removal.
How Does IPL Treatment Work?
When the light from IPL is absorbed by your skin, it heats up the targeted areas. This helps your body break down and remove unwanted cells, addressing the skin concerns you’re being treated for. IPL can tackle multiple issues at once, making it an efficient option for improving your skin.
After IPL, your skin tone often looks more even, giving you a fresher, younger appearance. Since the light doesn’t harm the surrounding tissue, recovery is typically quick, with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
For the best results, ensure your treatment is performed by a qualified and experienced professional. Look for someone with expertise in IPL therapy who uses high-quality equipment, as this ensures both your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Common Uses of IPL Treatment
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is highly versatile, making it a popular choice for addressing a wide range of skin and cosmetic concerns. Whether you’re looking to refresh your complexion or tackle specific skin issues, IPL can deliver noticeable results.
Skin Rejuvenation
IPL is an excellent option for improving skin tone and texture. It helps reduce the appearance of:
- Sun damage
- Freckles
- Age spots or liver spots
- Dark spots caused by hormonal changes
- Discoloured skin
- Fine wrinkles
IPL Skin Rejuvenation treatment revitalises your skin, giving it a more even tone and youthful glow.
Reducing Redness and Vascular Concerns
If you struggle with redness or visible veins, IPL can help by targeting blood vessels under the skin. It’s effective for:
- Redness from rosacea
- Spider veins
- Broken blood vessels
- This leads to clearer, more balanced skin over time.
Acne and Scarring
IPL can manage acne by reducing inflammation, redness, and the bacteria responsible for breakouts. Additionally, it helps minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks, encouraging smoother skin and promoting collagen production.
Birthmarks and Pigmentation Issues
For those with birthmarks or other pigmentation concerns, IPL can reduce their visibility, helping to create a more uniform complexion.
Hair Removal
IPL is also a popular long-term solution for unwanted hair. By targeting hair follicles, it slows hair growth and can provide long-lasting hair reduction over time. It works on various areas, including the face, underarms, legs, and bikini line.
What to Expect During and After IPL Treatment
Preparing for Your IPL Session
Your skin should be clean and free of irritants when you arrive for your session to ensure the best results and minimise risks. Here’s what to avoid:
- No Tanning: Avoid tanning in the sun, tanning beds, or using self-tanning products for at least four weeks before your session.
- No Skin Irritants: Steer clear of waxing, chemical peels, or collagen shots for two weeks prior.
- No Perfume or Makeup: Avoid applying perfumes, deodorants, or makeup on the treatment area before your appointment.
- Medications: Do not take aspirin, blood-thinning medications, or drugs that increase sun sensitivity, such as doxycycline.
The IPL Procedure
During the treatment:
- A technician or dermatologist will apply a cool gel to the treatment area.
- You’ll wear protective glasses to shield your eyes from the intense light.
- The handheld IPL device will be placed on your skin, delivering pulses of light to the targeted areas.
Sessions typically last 20–30 minutes, but larger areas may take an hour or more. The light pulses may cause a mild stinging sensation, like a rubber band snapping on your skin.
Post-treatment
After your intense pulsed light session, your skin may feel like it’s sunburned for 4–6 hours. Redness or mild bruising can last a day or two, and dark spots may temporarily appear darker before peeling off in the following weeks.
To aid recovery:
- Use ice packs or a cool washcloth to soothe your skin.
- Apply a gentle moisturising lotion regularly.
- Protect your skin with sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) that contains a physical blocker like zinc oxide. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days.
- Wash your face with a cleanser designed for sensitive skin.
- Avoid makeup if your skin feels tender.
Your dermatologist will advise you when it’s safe to resume your normal skincare routine, which may take about a week.
Follow-Up Treatments
Most people require 3 to 7 sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on the condition being treated. Sessions are spaced two to four weeks apart. While it may take several weeks to see visible changes in your skin, consistent follow-up treatments can enhance long-term results.
With proper preparation, care, and patience, IPL can deliver noticeable improvements, leaving your skin refreshed and rejuvenated.
Possible Side Effects of IPL Treatment
While IPL treatment is generally safe, like any procedure, it can come with some potential side effects. These are typically mild and temporary, but it’s important to be aware of them:
- Redness and Swelling: Some redness or mild swelling may occur in the treated area, similar to a mild sunburn. This usually fades within a few hours to a day.
- Skin Sensitivity: You may experience temporary skin sensitivity or a tingling sensation during or after the procedure.
- Darkening or Lightening of Skin: Pigmentation changes such as dark spots or light spots can occur, but these typically resolve within a few weeks.
- Blistering or Burns: In rare cases, improper settings or skin reactions can cause blistering or burns. This is more likely if the treatment is done incorrectly or if the skin isn’t prepped properly.
- Crusting or Peeling: Some treated spots, particularly pigmentation marks, may darken and peel off as the skin heals, which is normal.
If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider for advice. Proper aftercare and following treatment guidelines can help minimise risks.
Who Is Not Suitable For IPL Treatment?
While intense pulsed light treatment is effective for many people, it’s not suitable for everyone. Certain individuals may not be ideal candidates for this procedure, depending on their skin type, medical history, or specific conditions. Here are some factors to consider:
1. People with Darker Skin Tones
IPL works best on individuals with lighter skin tones. The treatment targets pigment in the skin, and darker skin types may be at risk of hyperpigmentation or burns due to the way the light is absorbed. If you have a darker complexion, it’s important to consult with a professional to determine if IPL is a safe option for you.
2. Active Skin Conditions or Infections
If you have an active skin infection, rash, or open wounds in the treatment area, IPL may not be appropriate. The procedure could irritate the skin further or interfere with the healing process. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis might also need to be managed before considering IPL treatment.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
While there is no definitive evidence to suggest IPL is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, most clinics advise against the treatment during these periods as a precautionary measure. Always consult with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision.
4. People with Sensitive or Fragile Skin
If you have highly sensitive or fragile skin, IPL may cause discomfort or worsen your condition. This includes individuals with conditions like rosacea or severe sunburn. Those with a history of poor healing, such as keloid scarring, should avoid IPL treatments.
5. Individuals Taking Certain Medications
Certain medications, particularly those that increase sun sensitivity (like antibiotics such as doxycycline), can make IPL unsafe. If you’re on medication that causes your skin to become more sensitive to light.
6. History of Skin Cancer or Active Cancer
If you have a history of skin cancer or are currently undergoing cancer treatment, IPL may not be suitable. The light used in IPL can interfere with the skin’s ability to heal and may affect cancerous cells. Always speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns regarding your medical history.
Takeaway
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is a versatile and non-invasive option for achieving clearer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. Whether you’re dealing with pigmentation issues, redness from rosacea, acne scars, or unwanted hair, IPL offers a safe and effective solution without the need for surgery. With proper preparation, ongoing care, and expert supervision, IPL can deliver long-lasting improvements to your skin’s appearance. It’s a smart choice for those looking to rejuvenate their skin with minimal downtime and outstanding results.
