IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
Intense pulsed light (IPL) or light therapy is a non-invasive and non-ablative treatment that uses high-intensity pulses of visible light to improve the appearance of the skin.
Treatment of Pigment:
Your skin gets its colour from a pigment called melanin, which is produced by cells called melanocytes. If these cells become damaged or unhealthy they can become highly erratic in their melanin production, leading to darker or lighter patches of skin. The dark patches are sometimes referred to as “age spots” but younger people can also develop them.
Bursts of intense pulsed light target the darkened areas of pigment in sun damage, causing it to heat up and then break down. The process is known as photothermolysis. You may experience some initial darkening of the treated areas. This is temporary, and after around 5 – 7 days, they will begin to fade. As the dark areas break down, they flake off. They will become progressively lighter with each treatment.
Treatment of Redness, rosacea and broken capillaries:
The light rays target the oxyhaemoglobin in blood vessels, sealing the vessel and reducing redness. You can expect to see some improvement straight away for visible vessels and within a few weeks for background redness. As well as addressing background redness and visible vessels, IPL is an excellent choice for all round skin rejuvenation. Rosacea is chronic and cannot be “cured” with any laser or light source, however its appearance can be improved.
FAQ
How does it work?
IPL systems work on the same principles as lasers in that light energy is absorbed into particular target cells with colour (chromophores) in the skin. The light energy is converted to heat energy, which causes damage to the specific target area.
At Face Value we use the Cutera Limelight which uses the latest advances in light treatment technology to improve skin tone and surface imperfections associated with ageing and photodamage. Cutera Limelight can make a dramatic difference to the appearance of your skin.
It can treat multiple conditions simultaneously, making it an ideal skin rejuvenation treatment. It stimulates collagen regeneration to improve volume and elasticity, fades age spots and pigmentation changes caused by sun damage, treats acne, rosacea, spider veins and broken capillaries.
It works by penetrating deep into the skin with pulses of light energy, using a series of filters to direct the light accurately to the target.
How will the treatment feel?
You will be aware of pulses of light flashing although you will be wearing protective goggles.You will feel a slight sting, as if a rubber band is being snapped against your skin, but this is minimal thanks to the advanced contact cooling system.
Are there Any Side Effects?
Side effects are rare. You will experience some reddening and/or local swelling at the treatment site, but this typically goes away within hours. On rare occasions, clients may experience some discomfort, crusting, blistering or bruising, but this typically resolves quickly. The skin can become darker or lighter following treatment, but will generally return to normal within a few weeks. Limiting sun exposure before and after each treatment will minimise the risk of complications. Following the treatment, you can resume all regular activities immediately.
How many sessions are required?
One to three treatments are usually sufficient to see results. Additional treatments may be recommended, especially for excessively sun-damaged skin. Results may vary depending on skin type and severity of damage being treated.