Photofacial (IPL)

A photo facial, also known as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), is performed with a high energy, intense pulsed light device or laser machine. 

The Lumenis M22 IPL has a wide range of functions that allow specialists to tailor treatments to a variety of skin conditions. This effective and gentle IPL treatment was created to help patients with: acne scars, rosacea, stretch marks, age spots, freckles, birthmarks, and skin discoloration.

The IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photofacial laser technology allows the treatment of pigmentation and vascular imperfections while improving overall skin appearance. Lumenis® IPL with Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT™) enables your provider to customize the treatment according to your skin type and desired results. Light pulses penetrate the tissue and create heat, targeting the skin imperfection in a controlled manner. The body’s natural process removes the treated tissue, while collagen and elastic fiber stimulation occur, visibly improving skin tone and overall appearance.

Risks may include redness, swelling, change of pigmentation, or scarring. 

Immediately following your laser photofacial treatment, you may experience some redness, depending on your customized treatment settings. The redness will usually disappear within a few hours. In most cases, makeup may be applied immediately, and daily activities can be resumed the same day. Typically your provider should advise you to stay out of the direct sun for a few days following the treatment and to apply sunscreen.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

• It is imperative that you avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior to your treatment. This is a must and no exceptions will be made.
• Avoid applying self-tanner for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Wait 2 weeks after Botox injections and 4 weeks after fillers before your IPL treatment.
• Avoid aspirin and Ibuprofen for one week prior to your treatment. Inform the doctor if you are taking blood thinners or regularly take aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Inform the doctor if have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past year.

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

• If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. If topical numbing cream will be applied, please arrive 15-30 minutes early. Cleansing products are available for your convenience.
• Allow 45-90 minutes for your appointment depending on the size of the treatment area.
• Just prior to treatment, you will be given eye shields to wear to protect your eyes.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Expect your skin to appear pink (resembling mild sunburn) for a few hours after treatment.
• You may be given a cool compress or cooling gel to apply after treatment.
• Make-up may be applied to cover redness as needed.
• Your skin may be temperature sensitive for several days after treatment.
• Brown spots and freckles will appear darker while healing.
• The sessions are designed to provide no downtime however, occasionally you may find that your cheeks and under eye areas are slightly puffy after treatment. Blistering and crusting are rare; however, if these do occur a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin® can be applied 2-3 times a day for 3 days. Please call us if you experience either of these uncommon reactions.
• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin color) can occur in some skin types. Please call us if you experience this uncommon reaction
• Use the PCA Post Procedure Kit for 3-5 days to help heal the skin.
• After days 3-5 post-treatment, continue regular PCA Facial Wash. PCA and Skin Ceuticals Retinols and Vit C application may be resumed 1 week post procedure, or when the skin is no longer sensitive.
• Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen, alcohol, heavy exertion and activities which may cause flushing for 2 days.
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products for one week after.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 for 4-6 weeks after your treatment. We recommend the PCA or Skin Ceuticals Sunscreen.

The Lumenis®  Optima™ IPL photofacial laser treatment works with your skin to remove imperfections and stimulate collagen and elastic fiber production over several treatments. Some skin concerns, such as shallow pigmentation and age/ sun spots, may be cleared with as few as 1-2 treatments. Typically 2-6 sessions with 2-4 weeks in between are needed to achieve optimal results for most skin concerns.

Lumenis® energy-based photofacial laser treatments are not suitable for everyone and carry some risks. Optima™ IPL is unsuitable for active infections, viral, fungal, and bacterial diseases, inflammatory skin conditions, or skin cancer. 

This laser treatment yields very good results on its own but can be combined with other treatments to reach skin care goals. Complementary treatments include microneedling, laser resurfacing, chemical peels and medical grade skin care.