The unique power of the IPL photofacial service… fading spots, softening lines, repairing scars, and more!
Many forms of sun damage can be effectively treated with properly harnessed light. Specifically, laser and light-based treatments are important and highly versatile options available at the office of Andromeda Aesthetics in Moneta, Virginia. In fact, the IPL (intense pulsed light) photo facial is a particularly good treatment for signs of sun damage, such as brown spots and visible blood vessels.
What is Intense Pulsed Light?
This broad-spectrum and highly concentrated beam of light is applied to damaged areas of the skin via a handheld device. The pigmented, discolored, or damaged areas selectively absorb the light. IPL therapy is safe, predictable, and conservative due to the selective or precise nature of treatment. The neighboring, healthy tissues outside the treatment site are unaffected by the light energy and remain intact. Additionally, you can get big rewards from treatment without the risk, as the light penetrates deeply into the skin without causing unnecessary harm to the skin’s surface. Such conservative treatment is also associated with minimal downtime and risks of serious complications.
Is it just for “age spots” and broken capillaries or blood vessels?
No. Rachel Moline Blankenship and our team may recommend IPL to improve the appearance of other forms of discoloration, such as redness caused by rosacea or hyperpigmentation/dark spots associated with past acne breakouts. The power of IPL transcends correcting discoloration and improving tone. Because the light can penetrate so deeply into the skin, it can heal from within. It kickstarts collagen production in the skin’s lower dermal layer to boost the skin’s firmness and improve other common signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.
Is IPL safe for all skin types?
IPL is generally safest for those with lighter complexions and fair to medium skin tones (Types 1 through 3 on the Fitzpatrick scale). During our consultation, we will consider your skin tone and type when recommending treatment options. For those who may not be good candidates for this treatment, we are happy to discuss other light-based alternatives, such as lasers. Laser-assisted therapies have come a long way. As they have advanced, individuals with more melanated skin can benefit from these treatments without the risk of hypopigmentation or scarring associated with older systems and technologies.
If IPL is right for me, what can I expect?
You’ll be asked to avoid certain products and behaviors before your appointment. For instance, tanning and sun exposure can increase your risk of complications and must be avoided. I do offer a handheld chiller device that patients use to distract and increase comfort during the service. We also use a cooling gel to support comfortable, precise, and efficient treatment by allowing the device to glide smoothly across the skin. As with all light-based therapies, you will be provided with protective eyewear. With such in-office preparation, most of our patients tolerate IPL well. The process is generally compared to the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. The actual treatment only requires around 20 to 30 minutes. Afterward, the gel is removed ensure adequate skin cooling measures for comfort. Just as you did beforehand, protecting your skin from the sun’s effects is imperative after treatment. Your skin will be more photosensitive following the procedure.
When can I see results?
IPL is largely not a one-and-done treatment. It may take three to six monthly treatments to get the desired results. To maintain them only requires semi-annual treatments. To learn more and if IPL/lasers or other treatments are best for you, contact Andromeda Aesthetics in Moneta, VA, to request a free consultation at (540) 488-2675.
IPL Treatment : Before and After
