Intense pulse light therapy
Intense pulse light therapy
Intense pulse light therapy is a non evasive type of surgery that uses a beam of pulsed light to improve the appearance of rosy cheeks, thread veins in the legs, port wine stains, facial veins and facial lines and wrinkles. The procedure is often called photo rejuvenation and usually consists of a series of intense pulse light therapies over a set period of weeks in order to gain the maximum benefit.
How does the process work?
The principle of the Intense pulse light therapy works virtually identical to that of using lasers in cosmetic surgery, the light energy is converted to heat energy and this heat causes damage to the specific targeted area of the skin. The main difference between the laser and IPL is that there are many wavelengths instead of just one in laser therapy, with most systems relying on the refining of the energy output for the treatment of specific areas.
This type of surgery is called a non-ablative resurfacing technique, which means that is specifically targets the lower layers of skin without touching the top layers in any way. There are a wide range of IPL machines and they are used for certain problems and many patients can have this type of procedure done in their lunch break and return to work immediately afterward.
Benefits of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy:
- Skin Rejuvenation: Intense pulse light therapy can improve the appearance of aging skin by reducing the visibility of age spots, sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles. It promotes a more youthful and radiant complexion.
- Treatment for Sun Damage: Intense pulse light therapy is effective in targeting and reducing the signs of sun damage, including sunspots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Removal of Unwanted Hair: Intense pulse light therapy can be used for hair removal on various parts of the body. It is a less painful and more convenient alternative to traditional methods like waxing or shaving.
- Acne Treatment: Intense pulse light therapy can target and reduce the appearance of acne by killing the bacteria that cause breakouts and reducing inflammation. It can also improve the appearance of acne scars.
- Reduction of Vascular Lesions: Intense pulse light therapy is effective in treating vascular lesions like broken blood vessels, spider veins, and rosacea. It can help even out skin tone and reduce redness.
- Minimal Downtime: Intense pulse light therapy treatments typically have minimal downtime. Patients can often resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- Non-Invasive: Intense pulse light therapy is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require surgery or incisions. This reduces the risk of scarring and infection.
- Customizable: Intense pulse light therapy therapy can be adjusted to target specific skin concerns and areas, making it a versatile option for a range of skin issues.
- Quick Procedure: Most Intense pulse light therapy sessions are relatively quick, and patients can see noticeable improvements after a series of treatments.
- Long-Lasting Results: With the right aftercare and maintenance, the results of Intense pulse light therapy can be long-lasting, making it a cost-effective option for many patients.
- Improved Self-Esteem: Many people experience a boost in self-confidence and self-esteem after Intense pulse light therapy treatments because of the visible improvements in their skin's appearance.
It's essential to consult with a qualified dermatologist or practitioner to determine if IPL therapy is suitable for your specific skin concerns and to ensure safe and effective treatment.
What does the treatment involve of Intense pulse light therapy?
The surgeon or doctor should have outlined the procedure to you at your initial consultation and you should have discussed your expectations of the procedure with them. The surgeon or doctor should have explained that the treatment is fairly straightforward but there are however certain precautions that you should take after the procedure.
- Avoid skin exposure to the sun before and after the treatment.
- Although an anaesthetic usually isn’t needed a topical one may be used.
- Sessions normally last around 20 minutes with 4 to 6 sessions being needed every 3 to 6 weeks to achieve the desired effects.
- Most patients can return to work straight after the treatment.
The side effects of the Intense pulse light therapy are usually minimal but can include
- Slight pain during the treatment.
- Skin may be a little sore and pink after the treatment.
- You could have the sensation of mild sunburn after the treatment.
- Very rarely slight blistering can occur.
- Slight bruising occurs in roughly 10% of those treated.
- Hair loss can occur in rare cases.
