Should I Get an IPL Facial?
Non-invasive skin rejuvenation can improve your facial appearance without surgery. IPL facials, specifically, can minimize or eliminate imperfections and signs of aging such as sun damage, brown spots, red spots, and the effects of rosacea.
What Is an IPL Facial?
IPL stands for intense pulsed light that’s emitted via a special device. The multiple wavelengths are directed into the skin and effectively target problem cells underneath the surface of the skin. It’s non-invasive and non-ablative (the light targets lower layers of the skin without affecting the top layers).
How Does an IPL Facial Work?
The light energy turns into heat energy that destroys the cells that give the skin color, which disperses pigmented areas. The spots are drawn to the surface, gradually turn into a granulated texture, and then flake off leaving you with radiant, rejuvenated skin.
Are You a Good Candidate for IPL Facials?
You may not be a good candidate for IPL facials if you have skin that tans very easily, or have dark brown skin to very dark brown skin that never sunburns.
If you have melasma, you’re probably not a good candidate. This is because the pulses of light are drawn to pigment, so darker skin tones can discolor, and melasma patches can darken.
Anyone taking antibiotics or Accutane shouldn’t receive treatment until six months after stopping those medications.
What Does an IPL Facial Treat?
IPL facials treat a wide variety of pigmentation skin problems as well as signs of aging, including:
- age spots
- freckles
- certain birthmarks
- sun damage
IPL can also help minimize redness, rosacea, and dilated or broken capillaries, as well as reduce the ruddy effects of flushing.
What Are the Benefits of IPL?
There are other numerous benefits of IPL facials including:
- It’s a non-invasive treatment
- A procedure done in-office
- At the Skin Center of South Miami, IPL is performed by certified and experienced dermatologists.
- Can be part of a personalized laser rejuvenation treatment plan
What Can You Expect With an IPL Facial?
The number of treatments needed will depend on the skin condition. Typically, two to four treatments, about 30 days apart, are needed for maximum effectiveness. Many people see results after the first treatment. It's important to have IPL facials performed by a board-certified dermatologist because burns can happen with inaccurate or too high device settings.
What Is the Recovery Like from IPL Facials?
IPL treatment is done over several sessions and requires no downtime. You can apply makeup and resume your normal skin care routine right away. Your doctor will recommend you stay out of the sun for at least a week and to apply sunscreen when you’re outdoors.
Are There Any Side Effects from IPL Facials?
Like most similar skin treatments, some individuals experience side effects with IPL, which may include tenderness, slight redness, and swelling, bruising, or hair loss. Rarely, blistering can occur or damage to pigment cells can happen that leaves behind a darker or lighter area of skin. Talk with your dermatologist about the possible side effects before you commit to any treatment.
If you’re interested in skin rejuvenation treatment in Miami, visit our experienced dermatologists at the Skin Center of South Miami. Our doctors have expert training and experience in providing skin treatments and exams. We’re committed to providing personalized dermatology care for everyone. Call us today at 305-740-6181 or fill out the form on this page to schedule a consultation anytime.