Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is a popular procedure that applies high-intensity light pulses to improve skin texture, tone, and appearance.
At Trouvaille, we empower you to make informed decisions about your skin health and appearance. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, uneven skin tone, or other concerns, IPL offers a promising solution. But before you dive in, you must understand the process thoroughly, from pre-treatment essentials to navigating the procedure itself.
In this post, you’ll learn what you need to know before and after IPL – from the pre-treatment essentials to managing costs and financing to navigating the procedure itself. This guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make a confident choice to achieve optimal results and a truly satisfying experience.
What is IPL & How Does it Work?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive skin resurfacing technique that uses broad-spectrum, filtered light pulses to address specific skin concerns (as listed in the next section).
IPL is non-ablative, meaning it doesn’t remove the superficial layers of the skin. Instead, it bypasses the surface to prevent unintended thermal damage to surrounding skin tissues and focuses on penetrating deeper to target chromophores, like melanin and hemoglobin.
This action triggers a healing process which stimulates collagen production, ultimately leading to better skin texture, tone, and elasticity.
What Does IPL Treat?
While not a one-size-fits-all tool, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy offers a versatile solution for addressing a wide range of skin concerns, including but not limited to:
- Hyperpigmentation: IPL can address hyperpigmentation, a common concern. It targets excess melanin production, thereby reducing the appearance of age spots, freckles, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
- Sun Damage: IPL can help to alleviate the effects of sun damage. Prolonged sun exposure can cause pigmented and vascular lesions, leading to issues like sunspots, redness, and uneven skin tone. IPL can target these lesions, removing or altogether reducing their appearance.
- Skin Tone and Texture: IPL can improve overall skin tone and texture. IPL treatments stimulate collagen production, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing pore size, and promoting smoother, more radiant skin. With regular treatments, IPL can help rejuvenate your skin.
What To Know Before IPL
- Personalized consultation: It all starts with a personalized consultation with a licensed aesthetician. This step helps to evaluate your skin concerns, medical history, skin type and tone, and expectations. During this consultation, be open about your goals, share any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications, and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
- Transparent cost discussion: You should also be aware of cost and financing options because pricing is dependent on several factors, such as the number of sessions required to achieve desired results. Pricing options will be discussed, considering your budget and goals.
- Realistic timelines: While results may be visible after one session, a series of treatments might be recommended for optimal results.
- Potential side effects: Be aware of potential side effects like pain and redness, which are usually temporary and manageable.
- Other information: During your consultation, you will be given other necessary information, especially regarding your individuality. Suitability will then be determined, and you can begin skin preparation for the treatment as advised, such as avoiding excessive sun exposure and adjusting certain medications as necessary. You may be advised to avoid sun exposure and adjust certain medications before the treatment.
On the day of your IPL treatment, arrive with makeup-free skin. Your treatment provider will provide you with protective eyewear, apply cool gel to the treatment area, and use the handheld device to deliver controlled light pulses targeting your specific concerns. While the sensation is often described as a mild rubber band snap, feel free to communicate any discomfort or concerns throughout the procedure.
What to Know After IPL
Immediately following treatment, expect the treated area to be slightly red and warm for the first 24-48 hours. But don’t worry, this will clear up in no time. Some people have also reported a temporary tingling sensation.
Be proactive with sun protection. In addition to sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) being your ally, opt for shade (especially during peak sun hours, 10 am to 4 pm in summer), wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing.
Don’t worry if you have spots that look like “coffee grounds.” These are expected as your skin regenerates. To avoid damage, avoid exfoliation for up to a week. Use lukewarm water and a soft washcloth. Remember, gentle exfoliation is the key.
After your treatment, your skin might feel a bit dry, so prioritize hydration. Find gentle moisturizers, preferably medical grade, to protect your investment and keep your skin plump and healthy.
If you use make-up, you can resume after the first 24 – 48 hours and use sun protection. Use mineral makeup with SPF or apply sunscreen before your foundation. Avoid heavy products so your skin can breathe and heal.
Listen to your skin; if you experience any unusual redness, swelling, or discomfort, contact your treatment provider immediately.
Lastly, remember that while effects are immediately noticeable after one treatment and long-lasting, a series of 3- 5 treatments (repeated every 4 weeks) is recommended to consolidate these results.
Get Started with IPL at Trouvaille, Tinley Park
If you want to improve your skin texture, tone, and appearance, IPL treatment is an excellent option with a good safety profile.
IPL treatment will help you manage different skin concerns. This can be your first step towards getting the healthy and vibrant skin you dream of.
Book a consultation with us today to get started.
