It is also used to repair damaged blood vessels and remove unwanted hair.
Many choose IPL because it can provide the desired results with minimal pain and downtime.
However, when compared to otherskin rejuvenationtreatments, IPL may require more sessions to achieve the results you want.
Edwin Tan / Getty Images
Side effects, such as redness or discoloration or swelling, can sometimes extend your recovery time.
It delivers a broad spectrum of light wavelengths that briefly pulse your skin.
The light energy is absorbed bymelaninpigment to treat brown spots.
It is also absorbed byhemoglobininred blood cellsto treat broken blood vessels.
IPL therapy gives off less energy than laser treatments.
To achieve the desired results, it may require more sessions over a longer time.
For Skin
IPL skin treatment uses many wavelengths to repair unwanted pigment conditions.
During treatment, the light waves pass through theepidermis(top layer of skin) to the targeted lesion.
The light heats and destroys the pigment cells.
While the mechanism of IPL on MGD is unclear, research indicates that the IPL liquifies meibum through heating.
For Blood Vessels
IPL therapy effectively treats broken capillaries, spider veins, and varicose veins.
The treatment delivers concentrated short bursts of light to heat the blood supply in the targeted vessel.
The light heats the red blood cells, causing microscopic clots that interfere with blood circulation.
As a result, the vein collapses and shrinks without harming surrounding tissue.
The destroyed vein is absorbed into your body.
For Unwanted Hair
IPL therapy can remove unwanted hair from any area of your body.
Its large coverage area can make it easier to treat the chest, legs, or back.
IPL therapy works by directing the energy through your skin to thehair follicle, where it stops growing.
This means IPL can treat a larger area while laser therapy treatments are highly focused.
IPL is weaker and less focused than laser therapy.
While IPL therapy can produce noticeable results, lasers produce a more dramatic outcome in a shorter time.
IPL treatment results improve over time.
you might help maintain your results with dailysun protectionand skin care maintenance.
However, IPL treatment is rarely a permanent solution for blemishes.
Results can last for about a year, though individual experiences vary.
Getting a new series of IPL treatments every year or every other year can help you maintain your results.
Potential Side Effects
While IPL therapy has potential side effects, most people tolerate this treatment well.
You are less likely to have side effects when you receive treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.
While rare, complications can occur.
These typically disappear within a few hours.
Your skin may appear reddish, discolored, or bruised.
You may notice that brown spots darken for up to two weeks.
Do not attempt to rush the process by picking at these spots.
Your skin must naturally shed for the results to be visible.
These blemishes will eventually fade to a lighter color than before your treatment.
Home Versions vs. Studies have shown these devices to be safe and effective.Fluence refers to energy concentration.
How an IPL Session Works
IPL treatments are typically administered in an outpatient clinic setting.
Depending on the nature of your treatments, they may be performed by a physician or surgeon.
In some states,estheticianswith special training may also be permitted to use IPL treatments for certain procedures.
Before your procedure, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and discuss your goals.
They may also conduct a physical exam.
You should also quit smoking as soon as you plan to have IPL therapy.
This will promote better healing.
Most people require three to five IPL sessions to achieve the desired result.
After your initial procedure, you will need periodic follow-up treatments to maintain your results.
However, your provider may offer a manageable financing plan to make your treatment more affordable.
One of the most important steps is to consult with a reputable and experienced healthcare provider.
Seek out providers who have experience using IPL therapy to treat the areas you want to change.
Before you decide to have IPL therapy, talk to your healthcare provider about your goals.
They can help you understand potential risks and benefits to decide whether IPL therapy is right for you.
IPL treatment produces the best results for people who have lighter skin tones.
Having realistic expectations will prevent you from being disappointed.
While IPL therapy is considered safe and effective, it can cause discomfort for some people.
You should also be prepared to undergo several sessions to achieve your results.
Since IPL is not a permanent solution, you will likely need periodic maintenance treatments to maintain your results.
Consulting with an experienced healthcare provider can help you achieve the desired results.
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