Are you tired of trying to cover up discoloration, sun spots, fine lines and wrinkles, or scars with makeup every morning? Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy can help you maintain a natural, youthful look while erasing unwanted skin blemishes. Sessions are quick and painless and the results are beautiful and long-lasting. Here’s what to know about IPL.
What is Intense Pulsed Light Therapy?
IPL is an easy, non-invasive way to remove light amounts of unwanted hair, and reverse photoaging (sun damage), and other signs of aging. Additionally, intense pulsed light therapy for melasma can target hyperpigmentation. Patients can also opt for IPL to reduce the harsh appearance of rosacea, scars, and spider veins, giving your skin a fresh, smooth, and all-over youthful look.
Process and Cost
IPL uses light energy wavelengths to heat targeted areas of the skin. In this way it’s a similar treatment to lasers, except instead of one focused wavelength, it uses multiple wavelengths of pulsating light. IPL can cover a larger area more effectively, and in a shorter amount of time than laser treatments. When IPL heats the skin, the wavelengths break down the targeted follicles or damaged skin cells and the body removes them naturally, while the healthy tissue remains unharmed.
One session of IPL at Athré Facial Plastics takes about 45 minutes and costs $150.
[Related: In Your 20s? The Ten Best Ways to Prevent Wrinkles — Starting Now]
Who Qualifies for Intense Pulsed Light Therapy?
IPL therapy works best on lighter skin tones, especially if you’re choosing intense pulsed light therapy for hyperpigmentation. In order to get your ideal results you might need to come in for multiple sessions depending on your skin’s reaction. If you’re interested in decreasing the appearance of the following, schedule a consultation with us today:
- Melasma
- Liver spots
- Wrinkles
- Stretch marks
- Scars
- Acne
- Rosacea
- Freckles
- Fine hair
- Spider veins
Two weeks before your first session, we recommend avoiding tanning beds, waxing appointments, collagen injections, and chemical peels. Right before your session, avoid taking any sort of aspirin or blood-thinning medication. If you’re pregnant or have any sort of skin condition, disclose that information at your appointment so we can discuss the best route.
Recovery and Healing Period
After your IPL session, the area might appear red or pink and feel like a mild sunburn for the next 6 to 8 hours. Treat the area with a cool cloth or cold pack to alleviate discomfort and swelling. You should also avoid applying facial makeup or creams for at least 24 hours after your IPL session. After the first day, moisturize twice a day for the next few months for optimum healing.
Contact Athré Facial Plastics
Are you interested in refreshing your skin with intense pulsed light therapy? Contact our Houston MedSpa today and schedule a consultation!
