What Are the Benefits of IPL?
One of the most praised benefits of IPL is its ability to deliver smoother, more even skin. By targeting pigmentation specifically and boosting collagen production, IPL helps to diminish sun spots, hyperpigmentation and freckles, leaving your skin looking refreshed and revitalized.
For those who constantly struggle against uneven skin tone, IPL serves as a source of hope. The pulses of light emitted during the treatment specifically target areas of hyperpigmentation, breaking down the excess melanin and restoring balance to the skin. Furthermore, IPL promotes the regeneration of skin cells, which replaces damaged ones with new, healthier skin over time.
As IPL treatments progress, my patients often notice a significant decrease in the need for heavier makeup or concealers, resulting in a more natural and effortless daily routine.
Who’s a Great Candidate for IPL?
Because IPL targets pigmentation specifically in the skin using intense light, people with darker skin types (skin type 4-6) are not good candidates for IPL. When treating someone with darker pigmentation, IPL can mistake their natural skin tone for hyperpigmentation. The best candidate has lighter skin tone (skin type 1-3) with visible dark spots. The light can target brown and red chromophores (hemoglobin, water, melanin). IPL emits polychromatic light across a broad wavelength of about 400 to 1400 nm. The light is absorbed in the skin by the chromophores which causes the breakdown of the pigmentation, evening out the skin tone.
Treat Various Skin Conditions
IPL is incredibly effective at treating various skin conditions such as rosacea, broken capillaries, and redness. By targeting the blood vessels present in the skin, IPL can significantly reduce these concerns, offering a more uniform skin tone.
Those experiencing persistent redness or swelling due to conditions like rosacea often find relief through IPL. The treatment’s precision allows it to hone in on problem areas, diminishing the appearance and discomfort of these irritable skin conditions. Moreover, the quick sessions, with little to no downtime, provide a convenient option for those dealing with time constraints.
Quick and Non-Invasive Procedure
One major advantage of IPL is its convenience. Treatments are relatively quick, usually taking less than an hour, and do not require extensive recovery times. This makes it an attractive option for those with busy lifestyles who still want to prioritize their skin health.
The non-invasive nature of IPL therapy also means there is minimal discomfort involved. Most patients describe the sensation during treatment as a light flick on the skin, which is a small price to pay for such substantial results. The ease and speed of IPL sessions mean they can be seamlessly integrated into virtually any schedule without necessitating major adjustments to one’s routine.
So, Who Benefits From IPL?
- Those who have skin types 1-3 (and in some cases, a lighter skin type 4) are generally candidates for IPL.
- Those who have skin types 1-3 and have broken capillaries OR dark hyperpigmentation/sun spots would benefit from IPL. Having fairer skin and dark pigmentation increases the chance of positive results. The pigment absorbs the light as the light differentiates the light pigmentation compared to the dark pigmentation. That dark pigmentation comes to the surface and flakes off, revealing lighter pigmentation underneath.
- Someone who is a “sun worshipper” and will have a difficult time staying out of the sun for two weeks prior or two weeks after treatment should not do IPL. Exposing the skin to sun after treatment or having a fresh tan prior to treatment puts patients at risk for burns or hyperpigmentation.
- Those who use retinol on a daily or weekly basis must stop use for 2 weeks prior
Of course, the best way to know if you’re a candidate for treatment is to speak with your provider!
Also Read: Clear and Brilliant : My Favorite Laser Resurfacing Treatment
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