IPL Laser Treatments:Sun Spot Removal, Rosacea Treatments in Santa Cruz, CA
As we age, sun exposure can lead to visible signs of damage in skin texture, tone, and color. Brown and red spots, enlarged pores, rough skin, fine lines, and vascular lesions can make skin appear older, dull and uneven. IPL photofacials are a safe, non-invasive treatment that uses intense pulsed light to treat sun damage, boost collagen, improve texture, and reveal a more revitalized, youthful glow. We’ll explore what IPL photofacials are, how they work, the benefits they provide, what to expect during treatment, and why Rebecca Small, MD at RSMD Medical Aesthetics is the provider to trust for customized IPL photofacial treatments and outstanding results.
What is an IPL Photofacial?
An IPL photofacial, also known as a photopeel or phototherapy, uses high-intensity broadband light to safely treat sun damage in the skin. The IPL, or intense pulsed light, device delivers pulses of light into the skin that target melanin and hemoglobin. This absorbed light energy gets converted to heat, which damages pigmented and vascular lesions in the skin. The heat also stimulates the production of new collagen in the skin. After IPL treatments, damaged cells and pigment naturally clear away, revealing improved skin texture, tone and color. IPL photofacials provide a non-invasive skin renewal that promotes a clear, smooth, evenly pigmented and vibrant complexion.
What are the IPL Photofacial Benefits?
IPL photofacials improve overall skin quality and appearance by reducing the effects of sun damage. It is an ideal treatment option for patients struggling with any of the following skin concerns:
- Uneven pigmentation
- Rosacea
- Facial spider veins
- Broken capillaries
- Age spots/brown spots
- Redness
- Enlarged pores
- Fine line
IPL vs. Laser Skin Resurfacing
IPL and laser skin resurfacing are two popular facial rejuvenation treatments that use light energy to improve skin texture, tone, and appearance. However, there are some key differences between the two. IPL uses a broad spectrum of wavelengths to target brown spots, pigmentation, broken capillaries, rough skin texture, and early signs of aging in a single treatment. It tends to be gentler than laser resurfacing, making it a good option for those looking for moderate skin rejuvenation with little recovery time. Laser skin resurfacing uses a precise wavelength to directly treat more severe wrinkles, scars, and deeper pigment and vascular issues. While laser skin resurfacing produces longer lasting skin rejuvenation, the treatment and post-procedure recovery tend to be more intense. IPL’s gentle approach and lighter recovery may be preferable to patients with minor to moderate skin concerns, while laser skin resurfacing may become appropriate for patients with more severe skin concerns. During a consultation with Dr. Rebecca Small, she can evaluate your goals and recommend whether IPL or laser resurfacing would best fulfill your cosmetic goals.
Is IPL Right for Me?
If you are struggling with sunspots, redness, rosacea, spider veins, or other forms of sun damage, you may be a good candidate for IPL laser treatments. At RSMD Medical Aesthetics, Dr. Small will evaluate your skin health during a consultation. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your treatment goals and determine if an IPL photofacial is right for you. With Dr. Small and her nurse’s expertise, they can develop a customized treatment plan to produce your desired results.
IPL Before & After Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IPL Treatment Like?
Before beginning an IPL treatment, we’ll provide you with protective goggles for the eyes. Then, we’ll apply a gel to the treatment area to facilitate the distribution of light energy. As the IPL device is maneuvered across the skin, it will emit pulses of light. Patients often compare this sensation to the feeling of a rubber band snapping on the skin. However, the treatment is relatively quick, with most treatment sessions taking 30 minutes or less to complete.
What is the IPL Recovery Process Like?
IPL photofacials require little to no downtime. You may notice some temporary redness and skin sensitivity, similar to a sunburn, which lasts up to a day or two after treatment. You can use an ice pack to alleviate this discomfort. In the days following treatment, treated dark spots may initially look darker before they flake off to reveal the results of treatment. You can resume your normal activities immediately after treatment, but we recommend avoiding excessive heat, exercise, and other strenuous activities for the first 48 hours after treatment.
How Long Do IPL Results Last?
The results from your IPL treatment will begin becoming visible approximately 1-2 weeks after treatment, and will continue improving over the following weeks. Most patients require 2-4 treatments every 3-4 weeks for optimal results. During your consultation, Dr. Small will develop a personalized treatment protocol that is tailored to your individual needs. This may include multiple treatment sessions and occasional maintenance treatment sessions to prolong your results.
How Much Does an IPL Photofacial Cost?
At RSMD Medical Aesthetics, the cost of an IPL photofacial may vary depending on the treatment area, the number of treatment sessions needed for optimal results, and other variables. During your consultation, Dr. Small will develop a customized treatment plan based on your cosmetic goals. At this point, we establish the procedure costs so you can receive upfront pricing before you begin your treatment.
Why Choose RSMD for Your IPL Photofacial?
We invite you to schedule an IPL photofacial consultation and take the first step towards the youthful appearance you desire. Call today and discover why patients trust RSMD for their cosmetic goals.
