IPL Photorejuvenation
Years spent enjoying an outdoor lifestyle lead to signs of “photo aging” manifested by brown spots, broken capillaries, thinning of the skin and dilated pores. By using light based technologies, these signs of aging can be reversed. Medical conditions like Rosacea and hormonally induced pigment changes in the skin can also be treated.
What is Photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation refers to a treatment using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or laser technology to remove brown spots, broken capillaries, early red acne “scars”, reduce pore size and stimulate collagen production for smoother skin.
What type of device is used?
Dr. Roberts has safely and effectively used Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for over 20 years to deliver carefully controlled pulses of broad band visible light to target several imperfections in the skin simultaneously. By reducing brown spots, red spots, fine lines and the appearance of enlarged pores with one device, IPL gives a fresher, brighter and more youthful appearance to your skin.
How many treatments will I need?
Traditional IPL devices require a series of 3 – 5 treatments at monthly intervals.
Dr. Roberts uses a stronger IPL device, Lumecca by InMode, to the delight of her patients, achieving optimal improvement typically with 1 or 2 treatments.
How long will my results last?
If proper sun avoidance and sun protection is followed, sun induced brown spots can stay away for years. However with subsequent pregnancy or birth control pill use, new hormonally induced brown spots may appear. Once broken capillaries are completely gone, they may stay away for years or indefinitely. However, this treatment does not prevent new blood vessels from forming in predisposed patients or “cure” rosacea.
IPL wrinkle and pore size reduction occurs by the stimulation and production of new collagen. It does not stop the aging process; however, by following a good skin care program and taking care of your overall health, improvements can be maximized.
A “touch-up” procedure once or twice a year may be needed to help maintain results.
Are there any special instructions before my first treatment?
Dr. Roberts requires strict sun avoidance before and between treatments to prevent healing with white spots which can be permanent. Avoid self-tanning products for 6 – 8 weeks before treatment. Avoid blood thinners 2 weeks before treatment to prevent bruising All patients must be off Isotretinoin (Accutane, Claravis, Sotret or Amnesteem) for 6 months before starting any laser treatment. Otherwise, the skin may heal abnormally and be at increased risk of permanent scarring.
Are IPL treatments uncomfortable?
Most patients experience a feeling of deep heat in the skin, but this is well tolerated with the use of topical numbing cream for 30 minutes prior to the procedure.
What can I expect after treatment?
Your skin will feel red and warm like a mild sunburn for the first few hours. Brown spots will immediately look darker and fall off on their own over the next 3-5 days as you gently wash the treated area(s). Broken capillaries and redness will gradually fade over the next 4 weeks. You will be given detailed after care instructions from our office. Make up can be applied after 12 hours. Most patients resume their normal daily activities by the next day.
Who performs the IPL treatments in your office?
Only board certified dermatologists perform IPL and laser procedures in our office. With over 20 years experience in the use of lasers, Dr. Roberts personally performs all laser procedures. She carefully evaluates your skin before, during and after all laser treatments to safely and effectively give you the healthy skin you desire.
Please call our office to schedule a consultation.