INTENSE PULSE LIGHT

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that delivers a broad spectrum of light deep into the skin, offering potential solutions for various skin concerns such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and unwanted hair removal.

What are the uses of IPL treatment?

IPL treatment can be useful in following conditions:

• Treatment of acne
• Treatment of rosacea
• Removal of unwanted hair
• To improve hyperpigmentation like age spots and sun damage
• Skin rejuvenation
• Treatment of varicose veins and broken blood vessels
• Treatment of birthmarks
• To improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks
• To soften fine lines and wrinkles
• Tattoo removal

How does IPL treatment work?

IPL treatment functions by emitting a broad spectrum of light that penetrates deep into the skin, reaching the dermis while leaving the epidermis unharmed. IPL machines come with multiple filters that enable the delivery of specific wavelengths to targeted tissues. The skin absorbs this light energy, converting it into heat. This thermal energy serves various purposes, such as addressing skin conditions like acne and rosacea and removing unwanted hair. Additionally, IPL treatment stimulates collagen production, leading to skin rejuvenation and a firmer, more lifted appearance.

Common uses of IPL Treatments

• IPL treatment for acne:-IPL is beneficial for acne treatment, particularly when patients seek rapid clearance of active acne. By using a specific filter, light of a precise wavelength is delivered to the skin, leading to the calming of active acne and decreased inflammation. For optimal results, IPL treatment should be repeated at least 2-3 times with a 2-week interval between sessions.
• IPL treatment for rosacea:-Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by mild redness and small pimples on the face. In cases where conventional treatments are not fully effective and some symptoms of the disease persist, IPL can be used as an additional therapy for rosacea. It aids in reducing redness and pimples, but maintenance sessions are necessary to sustain results over time.
• IPL treatment for hair reduction:-While IPL can reduce unwanted hair, its use has decreased due to the emergence of more effective lasers for hair reduction, especially in dark skin. IPL is less effective than laser in hair reduction, requiring more sessions for comparable results.
• IPL treatment for Melasma or other pigmentation:-IPL treatment is commonly used for treating freckles, often achieving success in just 1-2 sessions. For patients with melasma who have not had much success with other treatments, IPL can be a beneficial option.
• IPL treatment for vascular birthmarks:-IPL can effectively treat vascular birthmarks or red-colored birthmarks. The final results vary depending on the patient and the nature of the blood vessels involved in the birthmark formation. Since laser treatment like PDL laser for vascular birthmarks may not be readily available, IPL becomes a valuable option in such cases.

What do I expect during the IPL treatment?

Before the procedure, the treatment area is cleansed, and a cooling gel is applied. You are provided with protective eye covers. The dermatologist selects the appropriate filter based on your skin condition. Using the handheld IPL handpiece, light pulses are delivered to your skin, ensuring complete coverage with some overlapping across the entire area.

What are the precautions to be taken after the procedure?

Following must be observed:

• Post procedure, you must prevent your skin from being exposed to sun. Always wear a doctor recommended sunscreen and repeat it at 3 hourly intervaltill after noon.
• It is advisable to use mild cleansers/face washes to avoid skin irritation.
• Avoid using hot water on the treatment area.
• Avoid using makeup for 24 hours on the treatment area.
• Moisturize the treatment area twice a day till the skin completely recovers.
• Do not go for any other facial procedure for 2-3 weeks following the procedure.

Are there any risks associated with the procedure?

Compared to laser treatments, IPL requires more precautions during the procedure. It's essential for the handpiece to be in full contact with the skin to prevent superficial delivery of light energy, which can result in burns. Failure to follow post-procedure care instructions can occasionally lead to hyperpigmentation changes.