IPL is one of the most popular services at Peel Haus. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) devices are non-laser, high-intensity light sources that make use of a high-output flashlamp to produce a broad wavelength output of noncoherent light. In the case of age spots, freckles and other types of brown discoloration, the light targets tissue with melanin. With broken capillaries, certain red birthmarks and rosacea, the light seeks hemoglobin – the pigment in red blood cells – as the targeted area. In each case, the light’s energy heats the targeted tissue, causing it to fade while sparing the surrounding healthy or normal skin.
IPL – Intense Pulsed Light offers many benefits and can be used to treat many conditions:
IPL – Intense Pulsed Light is not for everyone. Our experts might caution against a photofacial if you:
Individuals with darker skin-tones should be cautious due to the potential risk of skin pigment changes post-treatment. Consider alternatives for tanned or darker skin tones. These patients may explore safer options like RF Microneedling for optimal results.
At Peel Haus Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, your IPL treatment (Intense Pulsed Light) is performed in our DC office and is customized for each patient. Your face will be thoroughly cleansed and a cool gel will be applied to the skin. You will then be given Laser glasses which you must wear during your treatment to protect your eyes from the light. Our experts will perform the IPL treatment, which feels a bit like being snapped with a tiny rubber band. This service takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how many areas are being treated.
There is no downtime after the IPL – Intense Pulsed Light treatment. Most patients are able to return to work or resume their normal activities right away.
As you know IPL targets brown and red pigments with light during the treatment. This pigment must be eliminated by the body. About 1-2 days after treatment, the patient can expect a “coffee ground” appearance of skin and may notice that the pigmentation of their skin is darker or more noticeable, which is normal. The pigment being treated will get worse (darker) before it gets better. This pigment will either flake away over the following week or will be swept away naturally by the lymphatic system. As this is happening, the pigment may appear somewhat darker than normal. The patient may also experience mild dryness or flaking of the skin, for which they can use their regular moisturizer.
Healing after an IPL treatment varies with the patient although in most cases takes less than a week and as little as 2 to 3 days.
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The process takes around 15 to 30 minutes. It is a relatively quick procedure, making it optimal for those who have busy schedules.
Pain varies from person to person, but, patients describe the procedure to be more uncomfortable than painful. Some people describe the sensation similar to the snapping of an elastic band on the skin. Of course, the feeling is only temporary.
The first improvements will be immediate. You can look forward to a visible improvement in your skin immediately after this treatment. Your skin will be smoother and brighter, and your pores will look smaller. The benefits will continue to increase as your skin produces more collagen in the days and weeks following your appointment. If you opt for a series, you will see your maximum benefits a few weeks after it is complete.
With proper skin care and sun protection following IPL treatments, results can last for years.
The number of IPL treatments needed for optimal results can vary, but most patients achieve their cosmetic goals with between three and five treatments. Keep in mind that dark spots and freckles can appear darker for the first few days after treatment.
The IPL treatment boasts very little downtime. Patients are able to wear makeup and resume normal activities immediately after treatment. Any swelling, sensitivity or other side effects typically heal within a week, but often just 2 – 3 days.
The IPL treatments are recommended in a series of 3 to 6 sessions, after which you will be given a maintenance schedule to maintain your results depending on the condition of your skin and the severity of your problem. You will be able to resume your normal activities immediately after the treatment. By dividing the treatments into a series, you will see gradual improvement with minimal risk.
No, if you don’t tell them, your friends will not know that you have had an IPL photo facial or photo rejuvenation treatment.
Your skin will be slightly pink after an IPL photo facial treatment, but the color will be gone by the next day. Brown spots, red spots and spider veins may appear slightly darker after your photo facial treatment.
It is okay to wear makeup immediately following an IPL treatment. Sunscreen is highly recommended to protect the skin and prevent sun damage.
There are very few side effects related to IPL. Some of the side effects are reddening of the skin and swelling. This is completely normal and will subside within a few hours. Following the IPL, pigmented areas may darken and rise, this is a positive indication of the treatment and should go away within 1 to 2 weeks.
IPL is completely safe. It is also non-invasive and requires little to no recovery time. We highly value your safety and will go to great lengths to ensure comfortability with each procedure.
Schedule a personalized consultation with our specialists and discover the perfect treatment for you. Your best self is just one appointment away.
