IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
Discover Radiant Skin with IPL at The Calla Clinic in Derbyshire
IPL can be used to treat a range of conditions including rosacea, facial thread veins and pigmentation. It can also help improve skin collagen levels and radiance.
At a glance
15 – 45 minutes
6 – 12 months
3 – 6
1-2 days
Minimal
What Exactly is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to address various skin conditions. The light is precisely applied to your skin using a selected range of wavelengths. When the light is absorbed by your skin it works by breaking down targeted problems such as unwanted pigmentation, thread veins or hair removal. Helping to reduce the appearance of these concerns from your very first session!
By using IPL to target different skin issues we can effectively treat conditions such as rosacea, and stimulate collagen production for smoother skin. The treatment helps improve overall skin tone and texture with minimal downtime, making it a popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their skin and reduce signs of ageing.
Which conditions are suitable for IPL treatment?
IPL can be tailored to treat multiple different skin problems during the same treatment session by adjusting the wavelengths of light and settings used. Skin conditions treatable with IPL:
- Rosacea- IPL can reduce the underlying inflammation, redness, papules and thread veins that develop with rosacea. If you suffer with rosacea you may experience all or just one of these symptoms.
- Pigmentation– IPL can treat pigmentation such as age spots and sun damage. It is not suitable for all types of pigmentation, this will be discussed at your consultation.
- Thread veins– these are unwanted, broken blood vessels visible on the surface of your skin. They can develop due to multiple factors including sun damage, rosacea, genetics and lifestyle factors.
- Acne– IPL can reduce levels of p.acnes bacteria, reduce inflammation and control oil production which will reduce the severity and frequency of break-outs.
- Collagen boost- A specific wavelength of light can be used to switch on your fibroblasts (the collagen making cells) which improves skin luminosity and radiance.
- Skin lesions– certain skin lesions such as spider naevi, cherry angioma & port wine stain can be treated with IPL.
- Hair removal- IPL is an effective method of hair removal for many people without significant pain or downtime.
FAQs
What does IPL feel like?
IPL treatment typically feels like a warm tingling or snapping sensation on the skin- it is very well tolerated. The skin is cooled during your treatment to remove unwanted heat.
How many treatments will I need?
As with all treatment options, the number of treatments you need will depend on the quality of your skin (we’re all different!), the concerns you want to resolve and any other results you’d like to achieve. Most patients require 3-6 treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart.
Are there any risks associated with IPL treatment?
IPL is a safe treatment when performed on the right skin type and using the correct settings. However, as with all treatments, there are small risks to be aware of. It is important you avoid any sun exposure or fake tan use around your IPL treatment as this can increase the risk of burning your skin. The risks of treatment and the aftercare will be thoroughly explained during your initial consultation.
Is there any downtime?
Immediately after IPL your skin can appear slightly pink and flushed, this resolves within 1-2 hours usually. Certain skin problems may appear more noticeable for a few days, for example pigmentation or thread veins may appear darker as they have absorbed the light- do not worry, this gradually fades after a few days to appear lighter and fainter.
When would IPL treatment not be recommended?
IPL treatment is not suitable for everyone, this includes:
- Darker skin tones: if you have skin that is darker in tone you are at increased risk of burns as too much light is absorbed.
- Melasma: IPL can worsen this type of pigmentation due to the heat of the treatment.
- Pregnancy & breast feeding: the safety of this treatment has not been tested and therefore not recommended.
- Sun exposure & fake tan: if you have regular sun exposure IPL is not a safe treatment due to the risk of burning your skin. You must also avoid fake tan use for 2 weeks prior to your IPL treatment.
- Skin cancer: if you have had previous skin cancer IPL is not recommended.
