Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL Treatment)

The Meaning and Science behind This

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. A highly energized, handheld, computer controlled flashgun produces an intense, visible, broad-spectrum pulse of light, generally in the visible spectral range of 400 to 1200 nm. Various filters are used to rule out lower wavelengths, especially potentially damaging ultraviolet light. The resulting light has a spectral range that targets specific structures and chromophores (e.g. melanin in hair, or oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels) that are heated to the point of destruction and reabsorbed by the body.

This is not only used in hair removal procedures but also for photorejuvenation therapy in which skin pigmentation, acne, wrinkles and other skin ailments are cured. IPL is increasingly used in ophthalmology as well, to treat evaporative dry eye diseases due to meibomian gland dysfunction.

The laser/IPL device emits a range of light waves that are targeted at hemoglobin or melanin. The light beam passes through the skin and is absorbed by either hemoglobin or melanin resulting in the damage of the blood vessel wall or fragmentation of melanin pigment. These tiny vessels and the melanin pigment are then absorbed by the body, rendering them less visible.

IPL light encourages the production of collagen, a natural protein that fills in wrinkles. 5 IPL photofacial sessions that target the whole face, spaced 3 weeks apart are usually advocated for dramatic results.

Why should you get IPL Skin Rejuvenation Treatment?

If you have any of the following conditions and your general health permits you, you are an ideal candidate for this treatment

Rosacea
Hyperpigmentation (brown spots)
Wrinkles
Texture problems
Large, visible pores
Melasma
Excessive flushing
Freckles
Age and sun spots
Broken capillaries
Spider veins
Stretch marks

Pre Treatment

Stay moisturized and hydrated for at least a week before the procedure
Avoid overexposure to the sun and wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Stop smoking at least six weeks before undergoing surgery so that your body can heal better
Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal medications that can cause increased bleeding
Do not consume certain antibiotics and topical creams such as retinoids (Retin-A) that affect skin sensitivity
If you have herpes, your plastic surgeon may ask you to take antiviral medication to reduce the chance of an outbreak
Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after treatment for safe recovery
Make sure you have someone who will stay with you overnight, after the surgery
Do not wear any make-up on the day of the treatment

Steps during Procedure

Medication will be administered to you to reduce discomfort
You will be shown into a special laser room
Your professional will give you eye pads or special glasses
A cool topical gel will be applied on the skin that is required to be treated so that you don’t feel the intensity of the heat
The glass surface of the instrument is then placed on this area of skin and flashes light out in pulses. You may feel a sting
The nurse will wipe out the gel, wipe your face with a warm cloth and apply a moisturizer with sunscreen
If your face swells, an ice pack will be given to you.

Recovery

You will be kept in an observation room for some time in case an emergency arises
Recovery time will depend on the intensity of your condition, its nature, and your skin
Redness will fade away within a few hours but if your skin is very sensitive, this may take a few days
Stay away from sunlight as much as you can and wear sunscreen
Do not pick at your skin
Do not use hot water