What is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Photorejuvenation? How is it used?
How does IPL photorejuvenation help me?
A series of IPL treatments addresses brown or age spots, dull discolouration, rosacea and other forms of dilated blood vessels on the face and body. In this type of laser treatment, the energy passes through the skin surface and specifically targets dyschromia: the the undesirable brown pigment cause by abnormal melanin deposits and the redness in telangectasia and other abnormal blood vessels. The the skin surface and other skin structures are unaffected. IPL does not fade natural baseline skin colour or freckles.
After an IPL series, most people experience noticeable improvements in skin colour and sheen with minimal recovery time. There may be a mild degree of discomfort during treatment and the skin will feel warm or flushed for several hours following The treated “broken” blood vessels fade over a 2-4 week period while the abnormal pigment darkens then exfoliates over 7-10 days as the skin naturally turns over . This may take longer on the chest and thicker skin areas such as the hands or arms. After a treatment series you will enjoy skin that is more uniform in colour with a smooth sheen.
What else can IPL be used for?
Permanent Hair Removal: IPL is also an effective way to remove unwanted hair for skin types I to IV. Hair removal is done permanently and safely. 6-10 treatments may be needed depending on your hair quality and skin colour. Hair removal at live Young is medically directed.
Skin Laxity: Our Sciton laser platform is also used for skin tightening using The Skin Tyte settings and infrared filter . The lower face, neck and lower abdomen are usually treated. Skin Tyte works by stimulating collagen production in the deep skin layers. 5 session are usually required for results.
Scarring: IPL may also be effective in reducing the redness in some scars and stretch marks
IPL treats both vascular and pigmented sun damage.
Photorejuvenation is a cosmetic treatment that uses Intense Pulse Light energy (also called IPL or BBL laser) to fade and in some cases reverse the effects of aging and the sun or other environmental factors in the skin. A photorejuvenation treatment series, also called a photofacial, produces healthier, younger looking skin. The usual areas treated are the face, neck, chest and hands although almost any area on the body may be treated.
What should I expect?
Patients compare the sensation of their IPL photorejuvenation treatment to the feeling of a series of warm snaps with the laser pulses. The light energy penetrates skin to get to the root of the problem without impacting your daily routine. You may apply sunscreen and mineral makeup immediately post-treatment and return back to work or other daily activities. Exposure to ultraviolet should be avoided before, during and after treatment to avoid side effects and to enjoy a better and longer lasting treatment outcome. Dr. Sweeney and the Live Young Medical team will provide more details on treatment aftercare during your consultation and then again on treatment day.
How many treatments do I need? How long will photorejuvenation last?
Dr. Sweeney and her team will design a treatment program catered to your specific skin health needs. Generally, IPL photorejuvenation is a series of treatments spaced three to four weeks apart. The number of recommended sessions will be tailored to your individual concerns. With proper skin care and sun protection, you can expect your results to be long-lasting. A touch up is generally recommended to maintain your results and keep your skin fresh. The time line for this varies with your skin and lifestyle.
When should IPL not be used?
IPL may worsen some forms of abnormal hyperpigmentation.
Photorejuvenation does not improve moderate and deeper wrinkles, scars or folds, however, our clinic also offers a broad range of services to help you such as Botox Cosmetic, The Soft Lift, The Secret RF, Fractional Skin Resurfacing and many more services to help you look your best.
IPL consultation.
Dr. Sweeney and the care provides at Live Young want to meet you to hear about your concerns and to assess your skin and the other factors needed in advising you on your best management options. Booking a consultation is the best first step in helping you achieve optimal treatment direction and outcomes.
Our anti-aging and skin care clinic is located in Sidney BC on Vancouver Island near Victoria, Oak Bay, Broadmead and Brentwood Bay and The Gulf Islands.
Here are 3 reasons why IPL is optimally done during fall, winter and early spring.
- When the summer’s over and tans start to fade the effects sun, wind and aging becomes more obvious. One of our most popular and effective treatments to help restore skin to its former glory is IPL photorejuvenation.
3 Reasons to Book Your Photorejuvenation Treatment Sessions
during Winter, Fall and Spring
Direct sunlight can more easily be avoided.
As with any laser treatment, direct sunlight should be avoided both before and after your treatment. If the skin is tanned side effects my occur. The fall through the spring is the perfect time to begin your IPL photorejuvenation series because the suns rays are less strong. If sun exposure can’t be avoided before and between your treatments, an SPF of at least 30 should be applied to the treatment area every 2-4 hours.
Of course there are many people who are outdoors all year but use adequate UV protection, if this is the case you can be treated at any time of the year.
Treatments are efficient.
Depending on the treatment area, sessions can be 30- 60 minutes in length. Because the time between treatments is only a few weeks, a treatment series can be completed in 6- 10 weeks depending on the number of sessions required. If you are planning a sun holiday we will work around that. Unlike some treatments, there is very little downtime associated with IPL photorejuvenation. Because the skins surface is not affected patients may apply sunscreen and mineral makeup immediately post-treatment and return to work or other daily activities.
A perfect reset.
Winters can be long which may have a negative impact on our mood. The lack of vitamin D impacts serotonin levels in the brain and can be a contributor to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Doing something for yourself can help improve your confidence and boost your sense of wellbeing.
To book your consultation with Dr. Sweeney and the Live Young team connect on line or call us 250-654-0383. We look forward to answering your questions.
