Understanding IPL Laser Treatment

Posted on 10. Aug, 2009 by Valerie in Non-Surgical Procedures

IPL stands for intense pulsed light, and it is a type of treatment that is used to help reduce certain skin problems of the face and neck. The results are usually almost immediate and quite obvious. Here, you will find some basic information about IPL and what it can offer. It may be the right treatment for you.

IPL Laser treatment works by sending strong pulses of light into the skin. The laser does not do damage to the outer part of the skin. In fact, most patients do not have any side effects other than a little discomfort.

The laser is made to make an impact in the deep tissue area of the skin, where damage originates. There are different types of the IPL treatment to target and repair different types of damage. The specific laser for your needs will be used when you meet with a professional.

With many different facial resurfacing treatments, like microdermabrasion, patients will have damage done to the outer surface of the skin. This is not true with IPL, so many patients are able to resume normal life right after the treatment.

Usually, patients will need to undergo a series of treatments, ranging from four to six, depending on the extent of the damage that needs to be repaired. A patient may not see perfect results until the latter treatments.

IPL works well as a treatment for skin problems such as rosacea, freckles, broken blood vessels and deposits of dark pigmentation. IPL will not work on superficial scarring or wrinkles.

The actual procedure lasts less than half an hour. A patient may feel some pain, but it is relatively minor. The light is applied with a special hand piece, and the patient must wear protective eyewear. The patient will be able to go back to normal activity right after the procedure.

Many people have an IPL treatment while they are on their lunch break since it is such a simple and noninvasive procedure.

Although the IPL treatments are not permanent, the results can last a year or more. In truth, how long the results last is largely up to the patient. If a person stays out of the sun as much as possible and applies sunscreen when they must be exposed, then they can enjoy the results of the IPL for a longer time.

The treatment may not be right for you. You will need to speak with your dermatologist to determine if IPL can help you with your skin problems.

Tags: Laser, Microdermabrasion, Skin