Our Cutera Limelight Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) device is a powerful item in our skincare toolkit. It is used used to improve the color and texture of your skin without surgery. It can reduce signs of aging, remove unwanted hair, reduce scars' visibility, lighten dark skin patches, and improve the appearance of spider veins and background redness.
Also known as photo-facial, IPL treatment may help if you have red, brown, or splotchy skin due to medical conditions, such as chronic sun exposure, rosacea, acne, stretch marks, freckles, wrinkles, and age marks. Call or schedule today to learn about the IPL process and decide if it’s right for you.
IPL Treatment Process
IPL uses light energy to target and remove pigmented or damaged skin cells or hair follicles. Its light then heats the cells in the skin and breaks them down. Finally, the body gets rid of the damaged tissue naturally. The treatment works similarly to laser hair removal/skin rejuvenation therapy. However, an IPL device releases multiple wavelengths while laser therapy delivers a single wavelength of light energy. The process can treat a range of skin conditions at the same time.
Effectiveness of IPL Treatment
Everyone responds differently to IPL. How well an IPL treatment works will depend on your age, skin type, and the equipment used. IPL produces better results on white or light brown skin. For hair removal, results improve if you have dark hair and are not blonde. Most people will need several rounds of treatment before they start to notice results.
Before, During & After an IPL Treatment
Before the procedure, your dermatologist will ask you to avoid the following activities for 2-4 weeks:
- Sunbathing and tanning beds
- Waxing, chemical peels, and collagen shots
- Taking any medication that will contribute to the risk of bleeding
- Using any perfume or deodorant on the area to be treated
Depending on the size of the area, an IPL session can last for about 20 minutes to one hour. After the therapy, the treated area may be red or pink for some hours. Some of your spots may get darker, but they should disappear within a few weeks. You might also notice swelling and a stinging sensation like a mild sunburn. After the healing, you should moisturize the treated area at least twice a day for a minimum of 3 months and always protect yourself with sunscreen.
Alternative Options to IPL Treatment
There are alternatives to IPL. Depending on your condition or outcome goals, other options IPL treatment include:
- Laser hair removal
- Waxing
- Shaving
- Microdermabrasion
- Chemical peels
