We’ve all been out in the sun a wee bit too much, and it shows. Sun spots, uneven pigmentation, broken capillaries, and areas of brown pigmentation. Ah, if only we were vampires.
Fortunately, you can come to AesthetiSpa and we’ll get intense with your skin damage, as in “intense pulsed light.” These treatments are great for dealing various issues mainly caused by sun damage on your face.
What is intense pulsed light?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) technology is different than lasers, as it delivers a wider spectrum of energy onto the skin. This gives it more range when correcting certain issues with pigmentation, such as sun spots. The wavelengths of light energy penetrate the epidermis into the dermis layer of the skin. This has two effects. First, the energy stimulates the dermis to increase production of new collagen, which improves the skin. Second, the darker areas of pigmentation absorb the light energy. These spots will at first darken for a couple days after your IPL treatment, and then they will begin to slough off.
How is an IPL treatment performed?
For your IPL treatment at AesthetiSpa, we begin by applying a cold gel to the areas to be treated, and we give you a pair of dark glasses to protect your eyes. We then place the IPL handpiece against your skin and deliver short pulses of light energy. When the light is delivered it feels as if a rubber band is being plucked lightly against your skin. For coloration issues, we usually cool your skin after treatment with gel packs.
What is IPL used to treat?
IPL targets darker pigments in the skin, usually browns and reds. Because of that IPL is great for facial redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, sun damage spots, benign brown pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Because IPL triggers collagen production, it is also effective for shrinking large pores, and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
Where can IPL be done?
The most common areas targeted are the face, neck, chest, and upper back…areas you think of for sun damage. The only place that is off limits is the area around the eyes.
What happens after my IPL session?
Immediately after your treatment, your sun spots will darken. This is a sign that the melanin in the spots has absorbed the sun and is responding. The spots will peel and flake away over the next couple of weeks. Your skin may be a little red, as if you have a mild sunburn, but that passes. You’ll need to be careful with any sun exposure for a couple of weeks, as your skin is very sensitive and exposed. So, wear 30 spf sunscreen at all times.
Interested in IPL for your sun spots and other facial issues? Call us at AesthetiSpa, 843-849-9925, to make your appointment.