Do you have problems with Rosacea, sun damaged skin, or hyperpigmentation? If so, you may be interested in learning more about IPL Photofacial. This stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and it is a photofacial procedure that is gaining a lot of popularity. It is a skin rejuvenation procedure that is gentle and easy to do. Many experts consider IPL to be a wonderful tool in modern dermatology. The process works well in transforming unsightly red or blotchy skin back to normal.
IPL Photofacial:
IPL is a photofacial procedure that normally takes half an hour to complete. During the treatment, intense light pulses penetrate deeply into the affected skin area. These light beams cause collagen as well as the blood vessels that are below the skin to constrict. This results in age lines and redness being reduced or eliminated. There is a slight bit of discomfort during the procedure and some patients will experience some swelling and redness afterwards, but this fades away fast. Overall results of the treatment may take a few weeks to appear.
Who is a Good IPL Photofacial Candidate?
Patients who have unsightly red spots due to acne, rosacea, or certain types of facial veins are good candidates. Also, those with wrinkles or fine lines due to sun damage or aging are good candidates. The procedure can also be used by those who have skin discoloration due to alcohol or smoking and those who may have hormonal imbalances. IPL photofacial can not only smooth skin but also refine the complexion. Those with very dark or deep tans may not be good candidates for this procedure. Your doctor can tell or not.
The IPL Photorejuvenation Process:
As the treatment begins, high intensity light beams are directed at the affected area. These beams are used to eliminate or reduce many of the effects we see due to normal aging. This includes wrinkles and certain types of skin discolorations. The light beams also help to bring about new production of collagen, which is a natural-forming protein that smoothes out wrinkles. The result is softer, clearer skin. Future treatments will result in better overall results. Normally, there are 5 individual treatments given periodically over a 3-week period.
IPL Photorejuvenation Risks and Benefits:
There is little pain involved with IPL photorejuvenation. Patients can return to normal activities immediately. With this procedure no skin is removed. This is the main reason recovery is so short. It is also a main reason there are so few risks involved. What risks there are include scabs, blistering, minor bruising, and possible skin discoloration. These conditions normally fade within a short period.
The IPL Photofacial Process:
Most patients experience a slight feeling of heat during the IPL photofacial procedure. The amount of light pulses needed for treatment will vary depending on your condition and the area size. Afterwards, the doctor may apply ice to the area. This is not always needed as the procedure is virtually painless.
Down Time
Recovery time is very short. This is because the IPL procedure does little or no damage to the skin. There may be some temporary redness but this fades quickly. In some cases, those patients who are being treated for very severe acne may experience more swelling or redness in the area.
IPL Photofacial Cost:
The overall cost of IPL photorejuvenation can be more expensive than other treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels. However, it is still less expensive than many of the other cosmetic surgery procedures available. The average cost per photofacial/fotofacial treatment may be around $200. The total cost for treatments will, of course, depend on the number of sessions as well as the severity of the condition.
