IPL — often called a photofacial — is one of the most widely used and well-established light-based treatments in aesthetics. It’s a versatile, non-invasive option that addresses a broad range of skin concerns with minimal downtime.
How It Works
IPL delivers a broad spectrum of light energy that simultaneously targets different structures in the skin. Melanin absorbs certain wavelengths to break down brown spots and sun damage while hemoglobin absorbs others to reduce redness and visible blood vessels. The body then naturally clears the treated cells leading to clearer more even skin. Different filters can be applied to focus the treatment on specific concerns.
What It Treats
IPL is the go-to treatment for clearing the “reds and browns” of the skin — sun spots, age spots, freckles, rosacea, broken capillaries, uneven tone, and general sun damage. It also stimulates collagen production for improved skin texture and tightening.
What to Expect
Treatments typically take 20–45 minutes. A cool gel is applied beforehand and most patients describe the sensation as a brief warm snap. Numbing is not required and recovery time is minimal. Patients experience mild temporary redness that clear within a few hours. Brown spots will often temporarily darken before naturally flaking off over the subsequent two weeks.
Treatment Series & Results
Most providers recommend a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart, followed by semi-annual or annual maintenance.