Intense Pulsed Light is a type of light energy treatment (not a laser!) that delivers a powerful dose of concentrated light deep into the skin, with specified wavelengths designed to target your unique needs. Freckles, brown discoloration, telangiectasia, and rosacea/generalized rosiness are all excellent targets for an IPL service. Each wavelength is designed to attack the intended chromophore (AKA target) to deliver a more even complexion over time.

An IPL treatment can cater to many different skin concerns. We use IPL to treat redness and vascular lesions, discoloration and sun spots, acne, and aging. An intense dose of high-powered light travels into the skin and treats the problematic skin condition by attacking the chromophore (or pigmented target). IPL is polychromatic light energy, so the extra benefit is that in instances such as acne or aging, the same intense pulsed light kills acne-causing bacteria and also stimulates a burst of collagen induction in the skin, producing an anti-aging effect. We use different filters and wavelengths to address a variety of skin concerns.

IPL is only safe for Fitzpatrick skin types 1–4. If you have too much melanin in the skin, the IPL will focus on the skin as well, and you can risk burns and blisters. Your certified advanced esthetician will make recommendations for you based on your coloring and appropriate treatments for your skin type and goals.

No. IPL is a treatment focused on pigment correction and does not address textural concerns. An added perk of an IPL service can be a boost in collagen, resulting in a smoother, plumper look, but the primary objective with an IPL service is to correct unwanted redness and brown discoloration.

This answer is very dependent on the person receiving the treatment and what their treatment goals are. For clients receiving treatment for rosacea, IPL is a very helpful tool in managing the visual symptoms of rosacea and will need to be revisited periodically as capillaries refill and redness returns over time. Lifestyle choices that promote the exacerbation of outward symptoms, like alcohol consumption and intense workouts, may need to be addressed in order to extend the time between services.

As it pertains to freckles, brown discoloration, and age spots, lifestyle changes like wearing a hat and staying away from direct sun are recommended to maintain the progress we create with an IPL service. When we target this type of pigment, we shatter the melanin deposit, resulting in a more even look, but prevention of future sun damage is up to you!

Our spot treatment services start at $130.00, and we treat a full face for $349.00. We offer plenty of add-ons for the neck, décolleté, hands, and more.

IPL does not tighten the skin. This is a service targeted toward pigment correction.

Our Acne Treatments incorporate an A/C Dual wavelength to kill P. acnes bacteria, which operate using Intense Pulsed Light energy. Light energy is very healing; however, if your chief concern is acne treatment, we would want to approach your treatment goals with acne treatment in mind, versus this type of IPL.

IPL feels less painful and more “shocking” due to the intensity and speed. There is a quick pulse of intense heat that lasts a fraction of a second, milliseconds technically, accompanied by a moderate warmth that feels similar to a sunburn. Depending on the chromophore selected, you may experience mild to severe erythema that will last between 1-3 days. A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. You can apply ice packs (not direct ice) to the treated areas to help feel more comfortable over the next couple of days.

It depends on the chromophore and numerous factors, including location and size. In the instance of brown spots/dyschromia, we recommend a series of at least three sessions spaced out between 4–8 weeks. The lesions will crust and darken, giving a “coffee ground” appearance. Your body will naturally exfoliate these spots, and they will get lighter with each subsequent visit until they are gone. Some stubborn spots may require more attention. Lifestyle and home care are also crucially important factors in the efficacy of your treatment(s). Dyschromia can come back with UV exposure, and another session or series may be needed in the future.

Clients being treated for redness and rosacea can expect a gradual reduction in the redness of their skin that may last anywhere from months to years. Redness and rosacea are the visual manifestations of a weak vascular system, which creates distended and bulging veins, or “telangiectasia.” We are able to cut off blood flow to telangiectatic skin, but because of the weak vascular system, the redness may return in a different area later in time. Patients seeking treatment for vascular lesions will likely require 4–6 sessions and will be treated intermittently throughout their lives. The goal is to manage the redness, because it can never be truly cured. Touch-ups and annual maintenance are recommended.

Acneic clients should plan on visiting us for a minimum of 4–6 sessions spaced out between 2- and 4-week intervals to obtain the benefits of P. acnes-killing IPL treatment. We recommend alternating with microneedling to help smooth out acne scars.

Clients seeking anti-aging effects from IPL will notice tightening and lifting within a few days after treatment and should schedule IPL treatments intermittently to continue reaping the collagen-producing benefits. The full benefits of collagen production are a slow process and can take up to six months post-session.

It is imperative to wear an SPF of 30 or greater and avoid unprotected artificial or natural sun exposure for 6 weeks post-session. This helps prevent hyperpigmentation or adverse effects of IPL.

A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. This usually lasts 1–2 hours but may persist for up to 24 hours, as individual responses vary. Mild swelling, tenderness, and/or redness may also occur. A topical anti-inflammatory can be applied for redness and tenderness. An oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be taken to reduce discomfort—use only according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

You may shower as usual, but treated areas may be temperature-sensitive. Avoid soaking in hot tubs or baths. Do not scrub or use exfoliants, scrub brushes, or loofah sponges until the treatment area has returned to its pre-treatment condition.

Veins or vascular lesions may immediately appear gray or blanched (turning white), or they may take on a slight purple or red coloring. If the treated area develops crusting or a scab, it will begin to flake off within 7–14 days. The vessels will fully or partially fade within the same timeframe. Repeat vein treatments may be scheduled every 7–14 days, or once the skin has fully recovered.

Until redness has completely resolved, avoid the following:

• Applying cosmetics to the treated area
• Swimming, especially in pools with chemicals such as chlorine
• Ocean swimming and hot tubs/jacuzzis
• Excessive perspiration or irritation to the treated area
• Sun exposure to the treated areas (to prevent skin color changes)

It’s critical to stay out of the sun while pursuing IPL treatments, as IPL is not safe for those who have had recent sun exposure or any tan in the past 30 days. Wait until your tan has fully faded for the safest and most optimal results. We recommend using a daily SPF 45 to prepare for treatment, protect your skin while receiving treatments, and preserve your results. If you enjoy sunbathing, winter is the best time to pursue IPL treatments, but to maintain results, tanning is not recommended.

Abstain from all anti-aging topicals for 72 hours prior to treatment, and avoid prescription-strength topical exfoliants for a full week.