What Is A Photofacial
A photofacial is a 30-minute procedure in which intense pulses of light are used to penetrate deep into the skin. Photorejuvenation then causes collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis to constrict, reducing redness, pigmentation and age lines. The procedure involves only minimal discomfort, while the redness and swelling that sometimes occur after treatment disappear shortly. Most benefits of a photofacial occur gradually in the weeks following treatment. And for even greater cosmetic enhancement, patients may also opt for a PhotoFacial and RF technology to achieve excellent anti-aging results.
What Does An Ipl Photofacial Treat
IPL Photofacial is a 30 minute procedure. This laser treatment helps remove redness, flushing, broken capillaries, fine lines and brown spots on your face. It also eliminates the redness and flushing of rosacea, as well as red acne scars. You will also see the disappearance of mottled skin as your skin takes on a nice, fresh glow. Overall, your appearance is much brighter and youthful-looking.
Zo Skin Normalizing System
The ZO® Skin Normalizing System is a complete selection of therapeutic products for the treatment of red, sensitized skin.This system features Rozatrol, a daily treatment serum which works to normalize skin by reducing excess oil, which can lead to inflammation. An enzymatic exfoliator provides ultra-mild exfoliation, while amino acids support optimal microcirculation to prevent the signs of premature aging.
This product is available at Dundrum Clinic. Call us on or email us for more details
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Skin Conditions That Are Treatable With Ipl
The broad range of wavelengths of IPL light together with Smart Filters will allow targeted treatment for many skin conditions and hair reduction . This process will also stimulate your skin cells to regenerate new collagen and thus restore your skin to its natural tone and texture, blending its colors and making it smoother, vibrant and younger looking. Note that its the heating of the pigmented brown or red cells that causes photo-rejuvenation and the therapeutic effect of IPL. Skin conditions that are successfully treated with IPL photofacials include freckles, age spots, sun spots, liver spots, birthmarks, pigmented and red acne scars, uneven skin tone, superficial skin wrinkling, very fine facial spider veins , diffuse redness associated with rosacea, cherry angiomas and even acne reduction. Note that rosacea is a chronic condition and cannot be cured with any laser or light, however its appearance can be significantly improved with IPL phototherapy.
ROSACEA IPL TREATMENT BEFORE AND AFTER
What Can Someone Expect From The Results Of An Intense Pulsed Light Procedure
The results of an intense pulsed light procedure will evolve over a series of initial treatments. After three to five sessions , patients can expect a rejuvenated and refreshed skin aesthetic. Maintenance treatments are generally needed every six months, and minimizing sun exposure can help to enhance the results.
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Is Ipl Treatment Safe
Yes, it is very safe. Some people may experience mild reddening of the treatment area for a day or so after treatment but other complications are rare. The Intense Pulsed Light system delivers energy to the skin very gently.
In Australia, the Energists VPL system which is used in the Natural Beauty Spot Clinic is TGA approved and also cleared to marker for the treatment of a wide range of vascular and pigmented lesions.
When To Avoid Ipl Photofacials
IPL treatments should be avoided in the hair bearing areas of the lower face in male patients, since the treatment may also target the dark facial hair resulting in unintended hair reduction. In these areas, a superficial laser peel, known as microlaser peel, would be a better and safer alternative, since the ablative laser targets the water content of the skin cells rather than the color content of the hair.
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Before And Afters From My Ipl Treatment
May 9, 2019
This Post Contains Affiliate Links
This post was sponsored by Southern Pines Aesthetics & Laser Institute. All opinions are my own.
One of my New Years resolutions was to do a better job of taking care of myself, which is kind of a huge task because that includes everything from getting more sleep, to exercising, to eating right, to getting that mammogram done on time, and so on. I also have wanted to consult with an aesthetician for awhileIm in my late 40s and sadly, all of those years of sun-worshipping are starting to show up on my face!
| In Munich. Theres nothing like a photo with a 15-year-old to keep you humble! |
Just to give you a little background, my mindset when it comes to people who have work done is that its obviously their body to do with what they want, and if thats what makes them feel good about themselves, then they should go for it. I wont say I would never have plastic surgery but I prefer a nonsurgical approach for most things, mostly because I cant afford the downtime for recovery AND surgery is expensive.
The good news is that there are so many techniques and treatments out there now to treat a variety of cosmetic issues. I also dont have any problem sharing my imperfections with the worldobviouslyso today Ill be telling you all about my recent IPL treatment.
Heres some video of the procedure also, Brianna is absolutely gorgeous but shes so nice that Im hardly jealous at all.
Thanks for stopping by~
What Can It Treat
The IPL treatments are helpful in decreasing wrinkles and fine lines, eliminating spider veins, and evening out skin colour. IPL for skin rejuvenation treatments can help to treat acne, enlarged pores, sun damaged skin and age spots.
IPL for broken facial capillaries is very effective in the treatment of broken veins and capillaries, and in the reduction of redness caused by rosacea and broken capillaries.
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What Is The Average Recovery Associated With An Intense Pulsed Light Procedure
There is minimal downtime following an intense pulsed light procedure. Most patients resume normal activities immediately following the treatment with limitations only on strenuous physical activity. Redness and swelling usually resolve within a few days to two weeks. Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure.
Laser Facial Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between an IPL laser facial treatment and laser skin resurfacing?
An IPL device is more color specific, targeting pigmented spots and blood vessels, leaving the surrounding skin essentially intact and untreated. Whether CO2 or erbium, skin resurfacing lasers target the water content in the skin, and thus treats both pigmented and normal skin cells.
Does IPL laser treatment hurt?
This treatment has minimal discomfort. Typically, most patients do not require any topical numbing prior to treatment.
What should I expect after an IPL laser facial treatment?
After treatment, the brown spots and sun damage that was targeted will darken for approximately 1-2 weeks before flaking off. Patients are able to apply make-up to the area to cover the dark spots. There is no post-treatment care, however, it is recommended to avoid significant sun exposure and Retin-A use for 1 week after treatment.
How should I prepare for a laser facial treatment?
Avoid tanning or significant sun exposure of the areas to be treated. Tanning decrease the color difference between the pigmented areas and the surrounding skin, making the treatment potentially more challenging, less safe, and less effective. Also avoid the use of photosensitizing medications before a treatment, as this may exaggerate the skin response to treatment. It is also recommended to discontinue skin care products one week prior to treatment as this may make your skin more sensitive to the treatment.
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Ipl Vs Laser Treatment
IPL skin rejuvenation and laser skin resurfacing are similar procedures in that they both improve skin through light treatments. Where they differ is in the type of light they use: IPL produces light in a broad range of wavelengths laser resurfacing uses just one wavelength at a time.
This means IPL is less concentrated, making it less effective at treating serious skin irregularities such as scars. However, it also means that the recovery time for IPL is significantly shorter than for laser therapy.
How Should I Prepare For My Ipl Appointment
Before your IPL treatment your practitioner will examine your skin and let you know what to expect. Let them know if you have any skin conditions which could affect healing such as acne or eczema. They may ask you to avoid certain activities, medications or products for: direct sunlight, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels, collagen injections, drugs that increase bleeding risk, like aspirin or ibuprofen creams/ products containing vitamin A, such as RetinA, or glycolic acid.
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Daily Sheer Broad Spectrum Spf 50
45 mL
Non-greasy, quick drying sunscreen with a sheer matte finish offering broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB rays. Natural melanin shields skin from aging effects of high-energy visible light. Water and perspiration resistant, this sunscreen delivers superior protection during outdoor activities while hydrating the skin to prevent dryness. Oxybenzone free. ZOX12 Engineered with our exclusive 12-hour, time-release ZOX12 complex, our sunscreens help shield the skin from harmful infrared rays.
This product is available at Dundrum Clinic. Call us on or email us for more details
What Can I Expect
Holly Shipley, PA-C will assess your skin and review your medical history to determine if an IPL laser facial is right for you. Some patients start their first laser facial treatment on the same day as their initial consultation. The treatment typically takes about 15 30 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. Typically from 2 4 treatments are required for optimal results. Treatments can be done every 4 weeks.
Immediate after-effects, if any, are minor. They may include redness and swelling, which disappear in a short time. The darkened pigmented lesions will remain on the skin for approximately 1-2 weeks until they flake off. After each treatment, patients are usually able to return immediately to their daily activities. Make-up can be applied to the skin to cover the darkened lesions.
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Is Ipl Suitable For Sensitive Skin
IPLs advanced technology allows us to tailor treatments to our clients individual skin tones and conditions, making it perfectly safe and effective for all skin types.In fact, one of the primary benefits that IPL delivers is to reduce skin sensitivity. As with all of our treatments, you will receive a full consultation with your expert practitioner beforehand, to develop your understating of the treatment and answer any questions you may have before creating the perfect regime for you.
What Results Can I Expect
The laser is painless and you will gradually see improvement over 5 treatments. Each treatment is done every 3 to 4 weeks. There is absolutely no down time with this procedure. It is perfect for rejuvenating the face of very busy people. The results last years, but you will enhance and preserve your results if you do 1 every 6 months.
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How To Prepare Oneself For An Ipl Skin Rejuvenation Treatment
Since skin tanning stimulates the growth and severity of pigmented spots, one should avoid tanning before and after IPL treatments for more effective and enduring results. It is particularly important to avoid tanning before IPL treatments for hair reduction sessions, since the treatment capitalizes on the color difference between the hair and the surrounding skin. Tanning decreases this color difference and makes the treatment potentially more challenging, less safe and less effective. One should also avoid the use of photosensitizing medications before a treatment, as these may exaggerate the skin response to treatment.
What Cosmetic Concerns Does An Intense Pulsed Light Procedure Treat
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What To Expect After Ipl Photofacials
Now that you understand how IPL photofacials work, you are likely interested to know what to expect from an IPL photofacial treatment. One session typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes to complete and most patients tolerate it well. It is usually described as being mildly uncomfortable with a sensation feeling like a rubber band being snapped against the skin.
Immediately following your IPL photofacial, your skin will appear as though you have had a sunburn. You may also experience some mild swelling, but most patients are able to return to work or resume their normal activities right away. You can even put makeup on right after your treatment. Over the next 24 hours, the redness will usually dissipate and you may notice that sun spots and discolored areas actually appear darker. This is normal and indicates that your treatment is working.
Things To Keep In Mind About Ipl
These procedures arenât cheap. In 2018, the average fee was $400 per session. Usually, cosmetic procedures arenât covered by insurance. Ask your dermatology clinic if it offers a payment plan.
IPL can make your skin look better, but it canât stop future aging. It also canât help the condition that affected your skin. You can get follow-up treatment once or twice a year to maintain your look.
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What Skin Conditions Are Treatable With An Ipl Laser Facial
Skin conditions that are successfully treated with an IPL laser facial include age spots, freckles, sun spots, liver spots, pigmented acne scars, birthmarks, superficial skin wrinkling, fine spider veins , diffuse redness associated with Rosacea, cherry angiomas, and even active acne reduction. You will also notice improvement of skin texture and tone.
Ipl Skin Rejuvenation Benefits
IPL benefits the skin primarily by destroying compounds that cause hyperpigmentation and redness, and by encouraging collagen formation. These two functions help:
- Reduce skin discolorations such as freckles, birthmarks, age spots and sun spots
- Rid the skin of vascular lesions such as broken capillaries and spider veins
- Improve the appearance of scars
- Tighten and smooth skin
- Reduce wrinkles and pore size
- Reduce facial redness resulting from rosacea
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What To Expect After An Ipl Photofacial Treatment
Depending on the application for which an IPL is used, in the immediate aftermath of the procedure you may feel like a sun burn, and your skin may show diffuse patchy pinkish areas, which often disappear within a few hours. You will often be advised to cover your skin with a protective skin ointment for the first day or so, after which regular make up may be applied. Depending on the setting, some mild swelling may also occur during this period. You will notice gradual flaking of freckles and sunspots and/or disappearance of blood vessels within one to three weeks. The ultimate result should be a rejuvenated skin, more even complexion with better tone and texture, and more youthful, vibrant look.
What Happens During An Ipl Photofacial
During your initial visit, your provider will make sure youre a good candidate for intense pulsed light therapy. They may even perform a spot test beforehand, and theyll give you instructions on what items to avoid for up to two weeks before your first IPL appointment. These could include waxing, tanning or sun exposure, peels, and topical creams that contain retinol or glycolic acid.
When its time for your treatment, your skin will be cleansed and an ultrasound gel applied. This cool gel serves several purposes: it helps protect the skin, allows the laser to smoothly glide over the skin, and reduces reflection of the IPL waves from the skin, making the treatment more efficient. Both you and your provider will wear protective eyewear.
The handpiece of the IPL device will be held and moved against your skin, and the light pulses will be emitted with the trigger of a button.
Some people describe the sensation as the snapping of rubber bands, though Dr. Klein cautions that the experience can be more intense. It can feel very hot and painful, unless a topical anesthetic is used, she says.
The length of treatment depends on the size of the area, but it typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes. After the treatment area has been covered, the gel is removed and sunscreen may be applied.
Youll be able to apply moisturizer and makeup immediately after the treatment.
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Intense Pulsed Light For Skin Improvement On Hands
IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is often referred to as a photofacial and is primarily used to improve brown and red discoloration in the skin. However, its uses extend far beyond facial skin. IPL is frequently used on the hands and arms to greatly improve sun damage and eliminate sun spots and seborrheic keratoses. A small series of IPL can provide a more even skin tone to the back of the hands.
IPL for hand rejuvenation may be used alone or in combination with other procedures. In patients with heavy sun damage including precancerous spots called actinic keratoses , IPL may be combined with blue light during photodynamic therapy to reverse sun damage, build collagen, and proactively treat AKs.
IPL is frequently used in conjunction with lasers that improve skin texture and produce large amounts of new collagen. A nonablative laser such as Fraxel or ResurFX can be used immediately following IPL to provide a minimal downtime treatment to address skin textural changes. If more dramatic results are desired, an IPL may be performed immediately before CO2 laser skin resurfacing to further rejuvenate the skin.
For more information about IPL for hand rejuvenation in the San Diego area, call Dr. Melanie Palm at 858.792.SKIN to schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options.