IPL: a Skin Rejuvenation breakthrough

Posted Apr 21, 2009 | 1 Comment(s) | Filed in:

Is your skin ready for summer exposure? Rejuvenate with IPL!

Skin Rejuvenation with Intense Pulsed Light™ (IPL) skin treatments using the photo rejuvenation process represent a breakthrough in age-defying skin care. This technique treats skin damage non-invasively—there is no disruption of the skin’s epidermal surface. IPL treatments address the effects of photo aging and sun damage with low risk of complications and no recovery time. Pulses of light are applied to the skin. This light is then absorbed by the skin creating warmth. Irregularities such as pigment marks, small veins, or clusters of veins will naturally absorb a lot more light, therefore become a lot warmer than the healthy surrounding skin tissue and will gradually die and fade away.

The effect of warming the skin and the deeper layers of collagen is that the skin will be stimulated to function more efficiently, producing a firmer, fresher complexion, reducing pore size and evening out skin texture, tone, and color. Results can include elimination or reduction of small capillaries or redness, elimination or reduction of pigmentation and discoloration, improved skin firmness, reduction in pore size, reduction of fine lines and general improvement of the texture and tone of the skin. Anyone who wants younger-looking skin should consider this revolutionary process.

Treatment is usually recommended as a series of 3 to 6 procedures (depending on your skin condition) approximately 3 or 4 weeks apart. Each treatment takes about 30 to 45 minutes. By dividing the program into several treatments, the procedure provides gradual improvement with very low risk. There is also very little and often no ‘down time’ compared with more aggressive treatments such as laser skin resurfacing. IPL is a light treatment, not a laser.

After completing the recommended treatment course, we find that prominent veins and pigments are often permanently diminished. The more subtle rejuvenating results are very long lasting. However, since our skin is constantly exposed to the environment, UV rays and other damage, anyone wishing to obtain optimum results longer-term may wish to have one or two “maintenance” IPL treatments each year.

The treatment is uncomplicated. A cool gel is applied to the area to be treated, the smooth glass surface of the handpiece is placed onto the gel, and pulses of light are applied. You may feel a slight sting, like the snapping of a small elastic band. A mild warm tingling sensation may remain for one hour or more after the treatment. A cool pack or other cooling preparation may be used to provide relief. Most women find they can apply make-up almost immediately after treatment.

If you’re interested in other treatments at the same time, we’ll evaluate whether this treatment is also recommended. It’s often best to include other types of treatment along with your IPL treatments to achieve optimal results.

What you should expect before treatment:
1. If you have recently been in the sun or on a sun bed you will need to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks before having IPL. It is also important to avoid exposure to the sun and sun beds for 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.

2. A commitment to stay out of the sun is necessary because treating tanned skin increases the possibility of unwanted side effects such as burning and pigment (color) changes. If you are planning a vacation in the sun we can help you plan your treatments around your vacation.

3. If you are pregnant it is advisable to wait until after you have had the baby before considering IPL treatment.

4. If you are using or have used Accutane, you must have finished taking this medication for at least 6 months before IPL treatment.

What you should expect after treatment:
1. In most cases this treatment has very little or no ‘down time’. This means you may be treated during your lunch break with very slight or no visible evidence of treatment.

2. Immediately after treatment you may notice a mild warmth and tingling sensation. This is normal and usually subsides after a few hours. This can be eased by using cool compresses or aloe vera gel.

3. Mineral make-up is preferable after skin treatments and can be carefully applied, provided the skin is not sensitive. Mineral make-up can also serve to protect the skin from sun exposure.

4. Skin that has been treated should be handled gently for a few days. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the skin and avoid exposing it to additional heat or friction such as hot showers, baths, steam rooms, saunas, and hairdryers.

5. Avoid planning heavy exercise for up to 2 days after treatment, to prevent the skin from sweating and causing redness.

6. Use of a medical grade UVA/UVB sun block (min. SPF 30) for 4 weeks after treatment is recommended.