Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Fotofacial

The gentle, non-ablative treatments use broad spectrum light to treat the face, chest, neck and hands—virtually anywhere that sun damage shows.

IPL Technology provides a range of wavelengths. With our selection of cut off filters, IPL is like having a suite of lasers to effectively treat a broad spectrum of vascular and pigmented lesions including photoaging skin treatments using photorejuvination and hair removal. IPL devices offer sophisticated computer-driven precision and ease of use. Treatments are gentle offering gradual results with minimal patient downtime and risk of side effects.

How IPL Works

A broad spectrum of light is transmitted through a small, smooth, transparent handpiece which is gently placed over the skin. Cut-off filters in the handpiece change the wavelength range allowing it to be optimized for different applications and skin types. The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by either the blood when treating vascular lesions or the melanin when treating pigmented lesions damaging them. The body’s natural processes then remove the injured tissue giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance.

IPL Skin Treatments using Photorejuvenation often consist of full-face treatment or treatment of isolated body areas like the hands or chest. The treatment regimen typically consists of:

* Four to six treatments administered at three week intervals
* Broad spectrum light in the visible and near infrared range, from 515 nm up to about 1200 nm

As a sub-epidermal procedure, IPL Skin Treatments using Photorejuvenation produce few side effects and requires little to no alteration in the patient’s normal routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does IPL work on fine lines and wrinkles?

When treating fine lines and wrinkles, the light stimulates the growth of collagen which makes the skin feel plumper and more youthful.

How does IPL work on the skin pigmentation?

When treating unwanted areas of pigmentation, targeted areas momentarily absorb the light and become hot, but not for long enough to burn. This heat breaks down the pigmentation into tiny particles which then either rise to the skin’s surface as scabs, which are exfoliated away naturally within 1-2 weeks, or the particles are filtered away through the lymphatic system in your body.

How does IPL work on thread veins?

When treating thread veins (or other vascular conditions), the light is absorbed by the oxyhaemoglobin in the blood within the vein, causing the blood to coagulate and the thread vein to break up into particles that can be filtered away naturally through the lymphatic system in your body.

Can IPL help with PCOS?

Yes. One of the side effects of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can be enhanced unwanted hair growth, for which IPL is a suitable and effective treatment.

Can I have IPL hair treatments if I have blonde, red, grey or white hair?

In simple terms, the greater the contrast between your hair color and your skin color, the more easily we can achieve great results. If you have blonde or red hair you will need to have a consultation with a practitioner to determine whether there is enough pigment in the hair for you to have a successful treatment. Grey or white hairs are not always suitable for this type of treatment, as they usually do not contain sufficient melanin to absorb light. Some people find a number of grey or white hairs remain visible after a course of IPL treatments. Research is being carried out to find ways to boost the melanin in grey and white hair for long enough to allow successful IPL treatments and we are monitoring these developments. Early melanin enhancement products appear to us to be prohibitively expensive.

How does IPL work on the hair?

The melanin in the hair (which gives hair its color) absorbs the light, which is momentarily converted into heat. This heat is transferred to the growth cells at the root of the hair, permanently disabling them. Most colors of unwanted hair can be removed from all parts of the body, except very sensitive areas such as the inside of the nose and ear.

Does IPL hurt?

Not really, although the treatment sensation will vary from client to client. Most of our clients say that it feels like the flicking of an elastic band on their skin. Any discomfort is momentary and there is no lasting sensation.

Who can have IPL treatments?

We are registered to treat anyone from the age of 16 upwards.

What regulations cover IPL clinics?

It is a Government requirement that all IPL clinics are registered with the Healthcare Commission, the regulatory body responsible for ensuring that private healthcare businesses operate safely and with full regard for client care. Registration with the Healthcare Commission is recognition that a company is using safe and appropriate equipment, has all the necessary treatment policies, procedures and protocols and is employing properly trained staff.

What are the side effects of IPL treatments?

You need a consultation before we can treat you. You should follow our advice before and after your IPL treatment. IPL does not work on all hair colors and all skin types. You may need six treatments before you can say goodbye to shaving and waxing, although individual results can vary. Improving your skin using IPL may need around four treatments and individual results can vary. Immediately after IPL treatment you may notice a slight reddening of the skin around the hair follicles or slight local swelling which may last for up to a few hours (or in very rare cases, a few days). These are positive indications that the IPL treatment was effective and no cause for concern. Following your IPL treatment, areas of pigmentation will darken and rise to the surface of the skin before being exfoliated naturally within 1-2 weeks. This is a positive indication of a successful IPL treatment and no cause for concern.

Is IPL safe?

IPL is safe, non-invasive, has minimal side effects and requires no recovery time. IPL is gentler than laser and much faster as a larger area can be treated with each flash. We believe it is the most advanced hair removal and skin treatment system available. We value the comfort and safety of the client very highly and will take the greatest care to ensure that you feel at ease about every aspect of the treatment.

How much does IPL cost?

This will vary depending on the area you are having treated and the number of treatments you need, please choose the type of treatment required from the main menu to view our price list.

What is Intense Pulsed Light?

IPL systems use hand-held flash lamps to emit micro pulses of light across a broad band of visible wavelengths. By using gentle pulses of light momentarily to create heat, IPL can permanently disable hair follicles, preventing future growth. Similarly, IPL also achieves excellent long term results when treating thread veins, skin pigmentation, acne and other skin complaints. On your first visit, your personal practitioner will carry out a detailed consultation and assessment before recommending a treatment plan to suit your individual requirements. Your practitioner will also demonstrate the equipment and answer any questions.

To schedule an appointment to discuss Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Fotofacial in Palo Alto, San Mateo, Half Moon Bay or Los Gatos, please contact Premier Plastic Surgery