Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense pulsed light treatments dramatically erase:

  • Freckles
  • Age spots
  • Spider veins
  • Sun damage
  • Enlarged pores
  • Redness, flushing and Rosacea
  • Irregular pigmentation
  • Wrinkles around the eyes, lips, and forehead

You can have full face, neck, chest and/or hand treatments. IPL is quick, safe, and effective with minimal downtime. You can resume normal activities immediately.

How does the treatment work?

An intense light is applied in a series of gentle pulses over the treatment area. Without damaging the skin, the light penetrates through the skin and is absorbed by the abnormally dilated vessels or pigmentation. The heat causes damage to the vessel or lesion, and the body begins its natural healing process. The lesion will darken before it flakes off or the body absorbs it. Treatment can be given as frequently as every three weeks.

How many treatments will I need?

For optimal results, a series of five treatments are recommended. Follow-up treatments may be desired once a year to maintain results.

What is a treatment like?

Treatments may vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the area to be treated. First, the treated area is cleansed and a cool gel is applied. When the pulse of light is delivered, the sensation is similar to a snap of a rubber band. After treatment, the gel is removed, the skin cleansed, and a sunscreen is applied. Pain is minimal; however, topical anesthesia can be used for maximum comfort. For sensitive skin, a cool compress is applied following treatment.

Are there any possible side effects?

Side effects are rare. Immediately following treatment, the skin may appear flushed; brown pigmented spots may appear darker; and capillaries may be more visible. In rare instances, temporary swelling and/or blistering can occur.

What improvement will I see?

Patients have a high degree of satisfaction with their results. Expect to see a gradual decrease in redness, broken capillaries, flushing, irregular pigmentation, pore size, and fine lines. After each treatment, the skin will feel smoother and appear to have a more even tone.

Consumer Alert:Many spa-type facilities are advertising and utilizing underpowered light devices (in some cases, illegally using IPL) that have no effect at all.