Over time, dark spots can appear on the face and body, adding unwanted years to the appearance. Triggered by sun damage, the normal aging process, and genetics, once these skin changes occur, no amount of lotion or expensive cream will restore the appearance. IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is a light therapy procedure designed to reduce the look of sun damage and restore the skin’s lost radiance. IPL has been proven to provide a dramatic improvement in the appearance by lightening freckles, fading age spots, reducing areas of sun damage, and the redness from Rosacea. *
The Ideal Candidate for IPL:
Anyone experiencing the damaging effects of the sun, age spots, freckles, and Rosacea can benefit from IPL. Both men and women make excellent candidates for the treatment. IPL is gentle enough for any ethnicity or skin type. Although IPL is safe for all areas of the face or body, the most commonly treated areas are those affected by the sun; these include the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands.
IPL does not harm the surface of the skin, as the concentrated laser light targets the lower layers of the dermis, without damaging the top layers. Several treatments will be necessary to achieve the best results. Depending the size of the area and the extent of correction needed, between four and six treatments are normally required. Maintenance IPL sessions may also be recommended, to prolong the results of treatment. *
The IPL Procedure:
During an IPL treatment, the esthetician will use a hand piece to meticulously deliver short pulses of light to the predetermined areas of the face or body. These broadband light pulses, delivered at various wavelengths, will be absorbed by the melanin in dark areas of the skin. This area is gently warmed, causing damage to the dark veins or tissue, allowing them to be safely broken down by the body. It will take between one and two weeks to see the full benefits from an IPL treatment. The dark spots will slowly begin to flake off, as the lower layers of skin move to the surface. *
Recovery After IPL Therapy:
An IPL treatment takes less than 30 minutes in the office, not requiring any anesthesia. The painless procedure is completely safe and virtually risk free. The IPL therapy requires no downtime; patients are able to return immediately to work or school. While some mild redness and swelling may be experienced, these usually fade quickly. There is no restriction of activities following a treatment, but patients must wear sunscreen continuously for maximum results.
The LimeLight IPL treatment may be performed alone, or combined with other noninvasive procedures for optimum skin rejuvenating results. Especially beneficial are the Titan Skin Tightening and Laser Genesis procedures, which together are known as 3D Rejuvenation. The results can include tighter skin, reduced pores, an reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, improved facial contours, and a glowing appearance. The LimeLight therapy can also provide an alternative treatment severe acne suffers. Combined with 5-ALA/Levulan, LimeLight can replace harsh Accutane regimens. Talk with your esthetician for more information; and ask about the fabulous products available at Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique, to maintain your newly achieved, youthful skin. *
IPL FAQ:
What is IPL?
IPL, or LimeLight, is a noninvasive treatment designed to reduce the appearance of freckles, age spots, and sun damage. Sometimes referred to as a photo facial or photo rejuvenation, an IPL treatment is also be extremely beneficial for patients suffering from rosacea. *
What areas can be treated with IPL?
An IPL treatment can be used on almost any area of the skin. The most commonly treated areas include the face, chest, hands, arms, and back. *
How is IPL performed?
To begin, a cool gel is applied to the predetermined treatment area. Next, your provider will gently run a smooth handheld device over the skin, delivering precise light pulses, using the state-of-the-art Cutera technology. Protective eyewear is always worn during an IPL procedure. *
How long does an IPL treatment take in the office?
An IPL treatment will last less than 30 minutes in the office. *
Where is an IPL treatment performed?
IPL is performed in the Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique’s luxurious, state-of-the-art medi-spa.
Am I a good candidate for IPL?
Both men and women, frustrated by freckles, age spots, sun damage, or rosacea may make an excellent IPL candidate. Patients should always be in generally good health, with realistic expectations for their IPL treatment. *
Will anesthesia be used during IPL?
No anesthesia is necessary during an IPL treatment. *
Is IPL painful?
The innovative technology behind the IPL treatment make it much more comfortable than other procedures. Patients report little to no discomfort during their injections. *
What can I expect from the IPL recovery period?
Initially, patients may note some redness and swelling on the treatment area, although this will resolve quickly. Skin spots may darken immediately after an IPL treatment, but within seven to ten days, these should fade or flake off. During the recovery period, patients must wear sunblock to ensure optimal results. Patients are able to return to work or school as soon as they are finished with the IPL procedure. *
When can I return to work after my IPL treatment?
An IPL treatment requires no downtime. Patients are able to return to work the same afternoon; strenuous exercise is also permitted. *
Are the results from IPL permanent?
While the results from an IPL treatment can be long lasting, the normal aging process will continue and may result in new areas of damage. When this occurs, patients are able to return to Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery for a new round of IPL therapy. *
What are the possible risks of IPL?
IPL treatments are virtually risk free. Hypopigmentation may occur on the rare occasion, but these dark areas will normally fade within seven to ten days. By choosing an experienced provider, the chance for complications will be even further reduced. *
How much will an IPL treatment cost?
The exact cost of IPL will depend on the area being treated, and how many sessions are required for optimal results. An individual IPL treatment will cost between $75 and $500. Various size IPL and combination treatment packages are available.
Can I finance my IPL treatment?
Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery accepts various forms of payment for IPL treatments: cash, personal check, major credit cards, and medical financing from CareCredit.