Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a facial treatment that effectively addresses various skin problems such as hyperpigmentation, sun damage, acne scars, rosacea, and fine lines. IPL is a more comprehensive and efficient solution for these conditions compared to other facial treatments.
At AK Beautiful You, our expert team provides regular IPL treatments to help clients achieve healthier and more youthful-looking skin. Keep reading to learn more about IPL photofacials and the benefits they offer for your skin.
What is IPL?
Similar to laser treatments used for cosmetic purposes, IPL uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths that are less focused and scattered, while lasers use a specific wavelength that is highly focused. IPL wavelengths penetrate the skin without causing significant damage to the epidermis.
The absorbed IPL wavelengths convert into heat, and your dermis’s capillaries, follicles, and pigmentation absorb it. That heat then destroys unwanted hair follicles and reduces pigmentation, allowing for the removal of freckles and other facial spots.
Skin problems treated by IPL
Estheticians, cosmetic specialists, and doctors use IPL photofacials to treat most pigmentation and skin blemishes, including the following:
- Spider veins
- Freckles
- Sun damage
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Broken capillaries
- Rosacea
- Hyperpigmentation
IPL photofacials are an excellent choice for dealing with these problems because they can target multiple issues simultaneously.
How long do IPL results last?
IPL photofacial results differ from person to person depending on factors like genetics, daily sun exposure, and age. On average, the effects last between six months to a year. We recommend receiving maintenance treatments every six to twelve months to keep your skin looking young and beautiful.
What to expect during an IPL photofacial
If you decide to undergo an IPL photofacial, we ask that you avoid blood thinners for several days before your appointment. You will also need to apply sunscreen when going out and skip your makeup routine the day of, if you have one.
Once you arrive for the appointment, it will take 20-30 minutes for the photofacial to complete. The process will be painless for the most part, though you may feel slight pain during the procedure.
After the procedure, your skin will feel sensitive to the touch, but ice packs and damp rags can help alleviate the discomfort. For several days after your photofacial, moisturize regularly, and use gentle cleansers to keep the skin clean.
You should also wear sunscreen throughout the day, even if you do not plan on going outside. It is also important to avoid wearing makeup during the healing process, as the chemicals in many makeup products can cause further irritation to the skin.
If you want to experience an IPl photofacial and the beautiful effects it can have on your face, our team is here to help. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online at our office in Anchorage, Alaska.