The noninvasive treatment uses light therapy to help address unwanted skin pigmentation,veins, andcapillariesthat develop over time.
Plus, I share an in-depth review of my experience with the treatment.
Meet the Experts
What Is IPL?
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
While IPL is largely regarded as alaser, this is not entirely accurate.
“IPL stands for intense pulsed light therapy,” Zeichner says.
IPL is technically not a laser because it emits more than just a single wavelength of light.
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
However, as a light-based treatment, it offers similar skin benefits to lasers."
How does it work?
The Benefits
IPL vs. Fraxel
Remember: IPL treatments don’t use lasers.
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
“Fraxel laser emits a beam of light that selectively targets water in the skin,” he notes.
Fraxel is a great treatment if you have some damage and textural issues, along withhyperpigmentation.
Fraxel does not treat broken capillaries or redness."
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
Garshik adds, “IPL can help boost collagen production and improve general photorejuvenation.
I also have some broken capillaries on my face.
You should discontinue the use ofretinoidsat least one week before treatment to ensure your skin barrier is not compromised.
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
“IPL treatments can be uncomfortable,” Zeichner says.
“It feels like a hot rubber band is flicking the skin.
The session for both my face and chest took 45 minutes.
Ashley Rebecca / Byrdie
Sunspots get much darker after treatment.
I describe the areas as looking like coffee grinds on the face as you heal over a week.
My skin was noticeably red after my IPL session, yet most redness disappeared within an hour post-treatment.
I immediately applied ice packs to my chest post-treatment, which helped immensely.
My skin immediately after my IPL treatment.
I did not experience any bruising as a side effect.
However, the redness in my chest area became less noticeable each day post-treatment.
My skin one hour my IPL treatment.
“I recommend applying a bland moisturizer to maintain skin hydration and support skin healing.
Ice packs can be used to reduce swelling and calm inflammation.
And discomfort can be treated with an oral anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen.”
To calm the redness post-treatment, I appliedAvene Cicalfate and Restorative Protective CreamandBiafine Emulsion Cream.
I can honestly say that I am thrilled with the results yielded after just one IPL session.
I noticed a significant difference in my complexionit was clearer and less red.
The capillaries and veins around my nose area are much less visible.
According to both experts, IPL results can last years, but maintenance sessions can be helpful.
Garshik emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper at-home routine as well.
My skin 10 days after my IPL treatment.
If you have darker skin, you must exercise caution when contemplating the treatment.
Goldberg DJ.Current trends in intense pulsed light.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol.
2012;5(6):45-53.
