Intense Pulse Light (IPL)

 

 

 

What Is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)?

Invented in 2003 and still incredibly popular due to its effectiveness and versatility, intense pulsed light (IPL), also known as photorejuvenation or photofacial, is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-intensity visible pulses of light to improve skin texture and tone, without damaging the surrounding tissue (non-ablative). The light energy is absorbed by cells, damaging them so that they are taken in by the body and/or sloughed off your skin.

 

 

Who Are The Best Candidates For IPL?

If you’re concerned about wrinkles, scarring, blemishes, sunspots or unwanted hair, IPL may be an option. The only way to know for sure that IPL is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or another skin care expert. People with darker skin tones, tanned skin, deep wrinkles, scars, and/or severe acne may not be appropriate candidates for IPL.

 

 

How Does IPL Work?

IPL devices, whether used at home or in office, emit multiple wavelengths of broad-band light to target pigmented or damaged skin cells or hair follicles, heating and destroying them. Your body then removes the damaged tissue naturally. What’s more, IPL boosts production of elastin and collagen underneath the skin’s surface. These are the building blocks of healthy, youthful skin.

 

According to Dermatologist Suneel Chilukuri, MD of Refresh Dermatology in Houston, TX, “DefenAge is an ideal complement to IPL treatments. I like to start my patients on the Clinical Power Trio two weeks before a series of light-based treatments to maximize the results. This regimen of Defensin-loaded products, 8-in-1 BioSerum, 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream, and 2-Minute Reveal Masque, works synergistically to improve skin texture and tone.”

 

 

What Areas Can Be Treated With IPL?

IPL can be used on your face, hands, neck, chest and décolleté. This technology can help treat:

• Broken blood vessels
• Pigmented spots or lesions
• Age spots
• Photodamage
• Acne
• Acne scars
• Unwanted hair
• Wrinkles
• Varicose veins
• Spider veins
• Rosacea

 

 

What Will I Experience During My IPL Treatment?

Your skin care provider may rub some numbing cream to the area to be treated before your procedure. You will also wear goggles to protect your eyes from the light. Once you’re comfortable, your provider will run a handheld device along your skin as it pulses or zaps light. This may feel like a rubber band is being snapped against your skin. Your treatment session may take 30 to 45 minutes depending on the size and number of treated areas. Several sessions are often needed to achieve the desired results. Your provider will give you a list of things you can or can’t use or do in the days leading up to your IPL procedure. Following these instructions carefully will help maximize your cosmetic results and minimize the risks of your IPL treatment. Potential IPL risks may include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Discoloration
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Crusting

 

 

What Can You Expect After An IPL Treatment?

The treated area may appear pink or reddish for a few hours after your treatment. You may also feel a slight burning or stinging immediately after your IPL session. Using cool compresses may help relieve any discomfort. Be patient. IPL results tend to appear gradually.

 

 

Who Should Perform IPL?

Dermatologists, plastic surgeons, aesthetic doctors, nurses, physician assistants, and licensed aestheticians can safely perform IPL. There are also home-use devices available that can improve upon or maintain results achieved with IPL in your doctor’s office or medical spa.

 

 

When Can I Start My DefenAge Homecare Program?

A home skincare regimen can complement your IPL results. Start using Defenage’s 1-Step Multi-Cleanse before your procedure to support your skin's barrier so that it is more receptive to IPL treatment. In addition, DefenAge’s 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream, when used in the morning and afternoon, also helps replenish and balance the skin's natural barrier. After your IPL treatment, DefenAge's 8-in-1 Bio Serum promotes radiance, revives your skin’s natural moisture, and further improves skin firmness, elasticity, and texture. It’s also essential that you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen each and every day.

NOTE: Always consult your medical professional to learn more about IPL and before applying any products to your skin post procedure.