IPL photorejuvenation emits a concentrated pulsed light from a laser device to fragment melanin and hemoglobin. The body absorbs the broken pigment and vessels, making them less noticeable. IPL laser treatments are effective at lightening sun spots and brown blotches, enhancing skin texture, reducing pore size and decreasing skin oiliness. In addition, IPL photorejuvenation can minimize the appearance of rosacea, skin redness, wrinkles and dilated blood vessels. This technology even facilitates collagen growth by heating the body’s fibroblast cells, which are responsible for collagen production.
The IPL Photorejuvenation Procedure
A board-certified dermatologist at OC Skin Institute, Dr. Tony Nakhla, can provide an in-office IPL photorejuvenation treatment. During the intense pulsed light laser procedure, the patient is given a special cover to protect the eyes. Next, the dermatologist applies a cool gel on the patient’s affected skin. Finally, light pulses are directed toward the skin from a hand-held device that the dermatologist carefully places on the targeted area. Some patients may feel a mild sting.
Afterward, the area is cleaned, and the patient is given a sunscreen-infused moisturizer. If mild swelling occurs, the patient can apply a cold compress for 10 minutes. The entire treatment can take as little as 30 minutes. Photorejuvenation is an excellent option for many people; however, pregnant patients should avoid this treatment due to the lack of testing on gestating women.
Additional Treatments
IPL photorejuvenation typically requires three to five treatments, which are given at approximately one-month intervals. The total number of treatments depends on the severity of the patient’s condition. Patients can expect to see improvement after each treatment. Those who properly care for their skin often only need one maintenance treatment every year. However, two treatments per year may be necessary for people who want to control redness or retain collagen growth.
The Recovery Period
Minor swelling, skin redness and brown-spot darkening commonly occur after a patient’s first treatment. These issues usually subside anywhere from a few hours to one week. Slight bruising is another side effect; however, this symptom is rare, and it usually takes up to two weeks for the bruises to disappear. Patients who have sun spots may notice crusting, which can last a little over one week. If desired, patients can carefully apply makeup to cover the signs of healing. It is crucial for patients to habitually use sunscreen and wear protective clothing in order to maintain their treatment results.