IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

How does IPL work?

IPL delivers broad-spectrum light into the skin using carefully selected settings. Different colors within the skin absorb different wavelengths of light.

Brown pigment absorbs the light and gradually breaks apart, allowing the body to clear it naturally. Redness and visible blood vessels absorb the light as heat, causing the targeted vessels to gradually collapse and fade.

Because the treatment can address both brown and red discoloration, IPL may improve multiple signs of sun damage during the same appointment.

What concerns can IPL improve?

IPL may be used to improve:

• Age spots
• Sun spots and sun damage
• Freckles
• Uneven pigmentation
• Rosacea-related redness
• Persistent flushing
• Broken capillaries
• Telangiectasia
• Red marks left by acne
• Redness associated with surgical scars
• Uneven skin tone

IPL is not intended to treat every type of pigmentation or vascular concern. Suspicious, changing or unusual spots should be evaluated by a dermatology provider before cosmetic treatment.

What areas can be treated?

IPL may be performed on several areas commonly affected by sun exposure and visible discoloration, including the:

• Face
• Neck
• Chest
• Arms
• Hands
• Shoulders
• Back
• Legs

The treatment cannot be performed directly over tattoos because the light may react with the tattoo pigment.

What happens during treatment?

Before treatment, your skin will be cleansed and protective eyewear will be provided. A cool gel is applied to the treatment area to improve comfort and help the IPL handpiece move smoothly across the skin.

The provider places the handpiece against the skin and delivers a series of controlled light pulses. The treatment settings are selected according to your natural skin tone, the type of discoloration being treated and the location of the concern.

After treatment, the gel is removed and sunscreen is applied. A typical session takes approximately 30 minutes, although the appointment length may vary depending on the size and number of areas being treated.

Arrive with clean skin and no makeup whenever possible.

Is IPL uncomfortable?

Most patients describe IPL as mildly uncomfortable. Each pulse may feel like a brief sting, warm snap or light rubber-band sensation against the skin.

Cooling gel, contact cooling and cold air may be used to make treatment more comfortable. The intensity can also be adjusted based on your skin’s response and comfort level.

How many treatments will I need?

A series of three to six treatments spaced approximately four weeks apart is commonly recommended for the best results.

The number of sessions you need will depend on:

• The type of pigmentation or redness being treated
• The severity of sun damage
• The size of the treatment area
• Your natural skin tone
• Your response to each session
• Your aesthetic goals
• Your level of sun exposure between appointments

Your provider will create a personalized treatment schedule following an evaluation of your skin.

When will I see results?

Brown spots commonly become darker immediately after treatment before developing a pepper-like or coffee-ground appearance. These areas then gradually flake away or fade over approximately three to seven days.

Redness and visible vessels may improve more gradually. Many patients begin noticing changes within one week, with more complete improvement developing over approximately four weeks.

Results typically become more noticeable as the recommended treatment series progresses.

Is there any downtime?

IPL generally involves minimal downtime. Most patients can return to work and their usual activities shortly after treatment.

Temporary effects may include:

• Redness
• Mild swelling
• Warmth or tenderness
• Darkening of brown spots
• A pepper-like appearance over treated pigmentation
• Mild dryness or sensitivity
• Temporary bruising or purplish discoloration

Redness often improves within several hours, while darkened spots may remain visible for several days before fading. Makeup may usually be applied when the skin is intact, although you should follow your provider’s specific instructions.

How long do the results last?

IPL results may last approximately one year or longer, depending on your skin, sun exposure and skin care habits. Successfully treated pigmentation and vessels may remain significantly reduced, but IPL cannot prevent new sun damage, redness or visible blood vessels from developing.

Daily sunscreen and sensible sun protection are essential for preserving your results. Maintenance treatments may also be recommended as new discoloration appears.

How should I prepare for IPL?

Proper preparation reduces the risk of burns, blistering and unwanted pigment changes.

Before treatment:

• Avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure for at least four weeks
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 every day
• Reapply sunscreen regularly when outdoors
• Avoid spray tans and self-tanning products for at least two weeks
• Follow your provider’s instructions about stopping retinoids and exfoliating products
• Tell your provider about all medications and supplements you take
• Report any medication that increases sensitivity to light
• Tell your provider if you are prone to cold sores or fever blisters
• Report any active rash, infection, open wound, sunburn or irritation
• Arrive with clean skin and no makeup when possible

Treatment should not be performed on actively tanned or sunburned skin because the additional pigment can absorb excessive light and increase the risk of complications.

How should I care for my skin afterward?

Use gentle skin care while the treated area recovers.

After IPL:

• Cleanse the skin gently
• Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer as needed
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 every day
• Limit direct sun exposure
• Do not pick, scratch or scrub darkened spots
• Avoid retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, scrubs and other exfoliants for approximately one week
• Avoid excessive heat until redness and sensitivity have improved
• Follow all personalized aftercare instructions

Allow treated spots to flake or fade naturally. Picking at them can increase the risk of irritation, infection and discoloration.

Who is a good candidate for IPL?

IPL may be a good option for patients with visible sun spots, freckles, redness, flushing or small blood vessels who want to improve their overall skin tone with minimal downtime.

The treatment is often most effective when there is a clear contrast between the targeted pigment and the surrounding skin. A consultation is necessary to determine whether IPL is appropriate for your natural skin tone and specific concern.

Who may not be a good candidate?

IPL may need to be postponed or avoided if you:

• Have actively tanned or sunburned skin
• Are pregnant
• Have an active infection, rash or open wound in the treatment area
• Take a medication that significantly increases sensitivity to light
• Have recently used isotretinoin
• Have a condition that affects healing or light sensitivity
• Have an untreated suspicious skin lesion
• Have permanent makeup or a tattoo in the treatment area

IPL carries a greater risk of burns and unwanted pigment changes in skin with more melanin. Patients with deeper skin tones are not automatically excluded, but careful evaluation and appropriate device selection are essential. Another treatment may be safer or more effective for some concerns.

Tell your provider if you take doxycycline, another tetracycline antibiotic or any other photosensitizing medication.

Can IPL be combined with other treatments?

IPL may be incorporated into a broader skin-rejuvenation plan that includes laser hair removal, microneedling, skin care treatments or other cosmetic services.

Some procedures may be performed during the same visit, while others should be scheduled separately. Your provider will recommend the safest treatment order based on your skin, the areas being treated and your desired results.

Schedule an IPL consultation

IPL offers a versatile, noninvasive way to address sun spots, redness, visible blood vessels and uneven skin tone with relatively little downtime. The Dermatology Clinic can evaluate your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan based on your skin type and aesthetic goals. Contact us today to get scheduled.