Sun damage and hyperpigmentation can be the result of prolonged UV exposure or aging skin. Over time, these imperfections can become more noticeable, leading to skin that looks more aged. IPL treatment is one solution for addressing coloration concerns and dull or aging skin.
Our IPL treatments target the root of these issues, diminishing the appearance of discolorations and delivering a more balanced skin tone. At Nunnally Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA, we delve deep into comprehensive skin care, from prevention to repair. Incorporating IPL for rosacea and other skin conditions, our approach can give you optimal care based on individual needs.
What Is Sun Damage?
Beginning at birth, sun exposure over time causes our skin to change and age prematurely. Examples of sun-induced skin changes include:
- Dark spots (“age spots”), freckles
- Wrinkles
- Yellowish-brown discoloration
- Broken blood vessels
- Leathery texture
- Skin cancer
Although a combination of treatments is usually required to attain maximum benefit, at DAI we encourage Intense Pulsed Light (IPL treatment). IPL for sun damage and other concerns effectively targets the above skin changes, offering a potential solution for dark spots, visible blood vessels, and more.
What Is IPL?
IPL, or intense pulsed light therapy, is a type of treatment that uses light to target sun damage, redness, and other concerns on your skin. IPL systems such as Palomar Starlux™ and others, deliver many different wavelengths of light in each pulse instead of just one wavelength of light as in lasers. This allows the procedure to target multiple skin conditions with each treatment. This treatment is considered non-ablative, which means that the top layer of the skin remains intact following the procedure. This allows IPL to be considered a “no down time” procedure.
A series of treatments will result in a decrease in the redness and sun damaged appearance of the skin. Treatments can be performed on the face, neck, chest and hands. There is a high degree of patient satisfaction with this predictable and safe therapy.
How Does IPL Work?
Topical anesthetic is applied to the treatment area prior to the procedure. The hand piece is glided over the skin, allowing the light to penetrate. When using IPL for sun damage or other pigmentation concerns, the light is absorbed either by blood when treating vascular lesions or melanin. As the light heats the targeted lesions, it damages them and the body resorbs the injured tissue over time leaving it looking clearer, more uniform in color, and more youthful.
Concerns That Can Be Treated With IPL
Reduction of Pigmentation
Pigmentation issues, often manifesting as age spots or uneven skin tone, can be a challenge for many. Using IPL therapy, we can reduce these imperfections. This makes it an effective age spot treatment and a preferred choice for those wanting a more even complexion.
Reduction of Redness and Broken Capillaries
Redness and visible broken capillaries, commonly associated with conditions like rosacea, can be treated using IPL. IPL for rosacea addresses the core issue, lessening the prominence of the visible effects of rosacea.
Improved Skin Texture
Smooth skin texture is desired by many and an IPL treatment can be instrumental in achieving this. By targeting underlying issues, IPL promotes a more even and refined skin texture, helping individuals achieve a fresher appearance.
Improved Skin Radiance
A radiant complexion speaks of health and vitality. With IPL skin rejuvenation, we aim to revitalize the skin, enhancing its natural glow and overall luminance. This treatment offers a method to potentially boost the skin’s inherent brightness and glow.
Why IPL May Be Right For You
Comfortable Treatment
IPL treatment is designed with the patient’s comfort in mind. IPL offers a gentler experience, minimizing potential discomfort during sessions.
Non-Ablative Technology
The strength of IPL skin rejuvenation lies in its non-ablative technology. This means the surface of the skin remains intact, focusing the treatment on the deeper skin layers without causing harm to the outer layer.
Long-Lasting Results
Investing time in IPL therapy can provide long-lasting outcomes. Regular sessions can help maintain the effects so that it can be a more sustainable choice for those looking for enduring skin improvements.
Short Treatment Sessions
With pulsed light therapy, patients won’t find themselves in lengthy treatment sessions. The sessions are quick outpatient treatments that can fit into any schedule.
Can Be Combined With Other Methods
Versatility is key with IPL treatment. It can be effectively combined with other skincare methods, offering a comprehensive approach to achieving your skincare goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our IPL Treatments
What Is an IPL Photofacial?
An IPL photofacial distinguishes itself from traditional facials by harnessing the power of intense pulsed light. While most facials focus on surface-level cleansing and exfoliation, the IPL photofacial goes deeper, targeting subdermal skin imperfections. This depth of action offers a unique approach to skin rejuvenation, promoting a more even-toned and vibrant complexion without the invasiveness of surgical methods.
How Many Treatments Are Required?
The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the condition being treated but typically four to six treatments are performed, with each one done one month apart.
Who Cannot Have IPL?
IPL treatment should not be performed on patients who are pregnant or those who have active cold sores. The risk for side effects in patients that have darker skin types is higher, and we advise other treatments for those patients. We also advise patients who have a history of keloid scarring to use other types of therapies.
What Is the Difference Between IPL and Laser?
While both pulsed light therapy (IPL) and laser treatments target the skin with light energy, they do so differently. IPL uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths that can be adjusted to treat various skin concerns. In contrast, lasers use a single wavelength of focused light. This makes IPL very versatile in addressing multiple skin conditions in a single session.
How Should I Prepare for an IPL Treatment?
Tanning should be avoided prior to treatment because this increases the risk of complications. To prepare for intense pulsed light therapy, we also suggest keeping the skin moisturized, refraining from using retinol products, and avoiding waxing or other potentially irritating hair removal methods in the treatment area a week before the session.
What Should I Expect Post-Treatment?
After undergoing an IPL sun spot treatment, patients might notice a darkening of treated areas initially. This is a normal reaction, and these spots will eventually flake off, revealing clearer skin beneath. Make sure to protect the skin from direct sunlight, use sunscreen regularly, and keep the skin moisturized for optimal healing.
IPL Treatments for Sun Damage, Rosacea, and More
Exploring IPL treatment offers a promising avenue for those looking to address skin concerns like sun spots effectively. At Nunnally Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA, we are excited to offer quality sun spot treatment options and expert guidance. Ready to begin? Contact us at (225) 769-3376 or complete our online form for more details.
