Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, often called a photofacial, uses broad-spectrum light to target pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin's surface. Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths simultaneously, making it uniquely effective for complex concerns like sun damage and rosacea.
How IPL Targets Pigment
The light energy is absorbed by melanin (brown pigment) and hemoglobin (red blood cells). This selectively heats and damages the targeted structures while leaving surrounding tissue intact. Over the following days, the treated pigment darkens and naturally exfoliates, while vascular lesions are absorbed by the body.
Ideal Candidates
IPL is most effective for patients with fair to medium skin tones experiencing sun spots, freckles, age spots, rosacea, broken capillaries, or general redness. It is not recommended for very dark skin tones or active melasma, as the broad light can worsen pigmentation in these cases.
The Treatment Experience
A session takes 20 to 30 minutes. A cooling gel is applied, and you wear protective eyewear. The IPL handpiece delivers quick pulses that feel like a warm snap against the skin. There is no downtime, though pigment may darken for 3 to 5 days before flaking off.
Recommended Protocol
For significant sun damage, a series of 3 to 4 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart is ideal. Annual maintenance sessions preserve results. Strict sun protection is essential before and after treatment to prevent new damage.
Our IPL Photofacial 3-treatment package is $499. Book a skin assessment at our Anna, TX med spa to determine if IPL is right for your concerns.
