Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a cosmetic skin treatment. People may use it to reduce the signs of aging, pigmentation, vasculature, reduce acne, or remove unwanted hair. An IPL treatment uses the power of broadband light to deliver pulses of intense light to penetrate the layers of the skin. Most patients describe experiencing a fast, pinching sensation during treatment, with minimal discomfort. There is no need for injections or incisions, giving patients the bonus of no downtime required.

Skin tone, wrinkles, photoaging, skin rejuvenation, photo-facials, sun damaged skin, uneven pigmentation, scars, spider veins, vascular lesions, rosacea, acne, and hair reduction.

IPL will stimulate collagen growth by treating a deeper layer of skin, while improving texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

During the procedure, people may feel a pinching sensation. Some individuals have described this as a feeling similar to an elastic band being “snapped” on the skin. Sensation is moderate and very tolerable.

Average treatment takes approximately 30-45 minutes

The short answer is no. Healing after an IPL treatment varies with the patient although in most cases takes less than a week and as little as a few hours to days. Immediately after the treatment you may notice some minor redness and swelling, similar to that of a sunburn. Ice packs or a cool washcloth can be used as needed. If treating freckles and other dark spots, you may experience dryness and flaking of the treated area. Some of the spots may appear darker, but they should slough off within a few days. You can apply makeup immediately after an IPL treatment if desired. Avoid heavy exertion and activities which may cause flushing of the skin for three days after treatment.

Pigment

It will take four to six weeks to see the full results from a single treatment, however you should see dark spots fade and slough off within a week. If you complete a series of treatments about one month apart, the maximum results will be visible in two to three months after the last treatment.

Veins

The results of IPL begin to appear right after treatment and continue to improve over the next few days to weeks.

It does take some time for veins to fully collapse and be reabsorbed by the body, so full results cannot be seen right away. If symptoms accompanied the spider veins, they are usually relieved immediately after treatment.

Depending on the indication of treatment, for best IPL results it is generally recommended that patients receive, on average, 3-4 treatments scheduled four weeks apart.

Mild complications of IPL include: Redness, swelling, light bruising, itching, peeling, and scabbing.

Treatment costs vary from $350 – $500 per session.