IPL TREATMENTS (INTENSE PULSE LIGHT)
The IPL hand piece delivers high intensity pulses of broadband light that
is different from the narrow band light of lasers. IPL, which stands for intensed pulsed light, is non-ablative meaning
that is does not damage the surface of the skin. The intense light is delivered to the deeper parts of the skin (dermis) and
leaves the superficial aspect of the skin (epidermis) untouched. There are different versions of IPL available on the market
that target different structures in the skin. The PhotoDerm VL targets vascular lesions such as spider veins and vascular
birthmarks. The PhotoDerm PL targets pigmented lesions such as melasma and age spots. The PhotoDerm HR and Epilight target
hair. The thermal effect of IPL also causes production of new collagen, leading to improvement in wrinkles.
As discussed above, IPL does not damage the skin surface, unlike dermabrasion
and laser resurfacing. Therefore, there is virtually no recovery time.” Treatments take approximately 30-45 minutes.
Patients can apply makeup before leaving the office and return to work the same day. There is also minimal pain with IPL,
unlike laser or radiofrequency resurfacing which both require topical anesthetic. Also, with IPL, a larger area can be treated
at one time than with laser treatment.
