Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a technology used to perform various skin treatments for aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, including hair removal, photorejuvenation (e.g. the treatment of skin pigmentation, sun damage, and thread veins) as well as to alleviate dermatologic diseases …
Broad spectrum pulsed light is transmitted through a continuously cooled applicator, gently placed over the skin. Cut-off filters in the handpiece change the range of wavelengths, optimizing it for different applications and skin types.
The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by either the relevant chromophores and damages them (blood chromophores when treating vascular lesions and melanin chromophores when treating pigmented lesions). The body’s natural processes then clear the lesion debris, giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance.
No topical anesthetic is required; cold gel is applied and mild discomfort can be experienced.
IPL treatments are usually less painful than other facial rejuvenation techniques.
After the treatment patients may experience a feeling of mild sunburn that can last for the remainder of the day. Redness is minimal and may last for one day. Application of ice post-treatment can be optional.