What is IPL photofacial?

An IPL photofacial procedure is an effective cosmetic procedure that can reduce or eliminate visible signs of aging and discoloration on the neck, face, chest, and hands. It is also less expensive than other laser treatments.

What is the downtime for an IPL photofacial?

One of the benefits of an IPL photofacial is that there’s minimal downtime. Most people return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, your skin will be sensitive to the sun, so be sure to apply sunscreen for at least a few weeks after treatment.

Photofacial-before-and-afterv

What are the benefits of a photofacial?

The benefits of photofacials apply to numerous skin issues, including:

  • Red spots
  • Brown spots
  • Rosacea
  • Sun damage, such as sun spots
  • Hyperpigmentation (uneven or excess pigmentation)
  • Spider veins
  • Broken capillaries
  • Age spots
  • Acne scars and discoloration
  • Stretch marks
  • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles

The most important factor in obtaining the benefits of a photo facial is choosing the right medical professional to perform the service. 

How does an IPL photofacial work? 

An IPL (intense pulsed light) using the Lumenis Optilight (also called IPL Photofacial (DELIT Plus) is a treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to heat the layers of your skin (dermis). The energy from this targeted light stimulates collagen production, prompting a natural healing process for damaged skin.

What is an IPL photo facial treatment like?

During your first visit, we’ll determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for intense pulsed light therapy. We’ll often do a spot test first to see how your skin responds.

We’ll also go over your treatment plan and instructions. For example, avoid applying any Retin-A lotions or creams to your skin on treatment days.

During your treatment, our doctor will clean your skin, apply a cool gel to protect the epidermis, and provide you with protective eyewear. The light itself is applied with a handpiece. Our doctor will use the handheld device to target your damaged skin, acne scars, vascular lesions, and other skin discolorations.

The light energy turns to heat energy, which targets the pigment-producing skin cells (melanin). The treatment takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

This skin rejuvenation technique can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure, so it’s essential to apply a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin after your treatment.

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Call now or book your appointment online.

What happens after the IPL photofacial treatment? 

The recovery time for an IPL photo facial is very minimal. You can apply makeup and do your regular skincare routine as soon as you leave the office. However, the overall healing process requires about a week. 

During this timeframe, if pigment issues were targeted, the pigmented spots, resembling pepper flakes, would start to rise to the skin’s surface and eventually fall off within a few days. 

You may notice some swelling, redness, or hypersensitivity for a few days, but using a cool washcloth and ice packs can help alleviate the discomfort. Treat your skin gently during this phase and limit your sun exposure as much as possible.

Why choose Assil Gaur Eye Institute for your facial aesthetic treatments?

The eye and face aesthetic team at Assil Gaur Eye Institute are experts in aesthetic treatments, unlike what you will find at most med spas. The Assil Gaur collective knowledge and experience with facial and eye structures are unparalleled, and our clinics feature cutting-edge medical facilities and photo rejuvenation equipment.

The aesthetic team at Assil Gaur Eye Institute’s goal is to help their patients become the best versions of themselves, whether regarding their vision or appearance. Other skin rejuvenation treatments our physicians perform include microneedling, dermal fillers, and Botox injectables.

Get in touch with us

Call now or book your appointment online.

We are conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.

IPL photofacial FAQs

Are IPL results permanent?

Although an IPL facial can improve the appearance of your skin, it can’t stop future aging. An IPL facial can be highly beneficial, but the results won’t last forever. To maintain the results, you’ll have to schedule follow-up sessions regularly, about every three to four weeks.

Using sunscreen regularly and avoiding prolonged sun exposure or sunburn will also prolong the improved quality of your skin.

Is IPL photofacial painful?

A photo facial falls on the spectrum of uncomfortable rather than painful. One common comparison among patients is that it feels like a rubber band snapping on your skin.

The light emitted by the IPL laser is very bright, which can be uncomfortable, especially for individuals with light sensitivity. However, to mitigate the awkward nature of the procedure, your dermatologist can offer you a numbing cream to apply 30-60 minutes before treatment begins, as well as eye shields.

How long does it take to see results from an IPL treatment?

Typically, multiple treatments are involved in an IPL treatment plan. It can take up to six treatment sessions to get the desired look.

Generally, patients report seeing improvement in redness about two weeks after the first session; however, it will likely take three to four treatments to see considerable IPL photo facial results, especially for more severe dark spots.

How much does an IPL photofacial cost?

IPL treatment costs vary depending on what is targeted. The size of the treatment area will also dictate the cost. Since multiple treatments are required, the price of IPL sessions will be reduced if you pay for them all upfront.

Who isn't a good candidate for IPL?

IPL isn’t a good idea if you:

  • Recently tanned with tanning creams, tanning beds, or sunlight.
  • Have a skin resurfacing disorder.
  • Are sensitive to light.
  • Suspect that you have skin cancer.
  • Have severe scarring of the skin.
  • Have keloid scar tissue.
  • Use a retinoid cream.

Do IPL photo facials help with skin tightening?

IPL photofacials primarily target skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and certain vascular issues. While IPL treatments can improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin, they are not specifically designed for skin tightening.

What are the risks of IPL facial treatment?

IPL achieves optimal results on light to medium skin tones. Those with darker skin tones — or even just tanned skin — have a risk of burning and permanent hypo- or hyper-pigmentation. To prevent severe side effects, we will assess your skin tone and quality to determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Overall, provider error is the most significant risk associated with the drawbacks of treatment. To avoid issues such as blistering, bruising, infection, increased melasma, or changes in your skin color, select a board-certified medical professional with a proven track record of successful sessions and satisfied clients.

Written by Dr. Avneet Sodhi Gaur

Dr. Gaur's training and work experience at renowned ophthalmic institutions, including Tufts Medical Center and Boston-Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, have given her extensive experience in state-of-the-art medical, laser and surgical management of glaucoma and cataracts. It is no exaggeration to report that she has performed thousands of sucessful cataract, glaucoma and LASIK surgeries.
Dr. Gaur's training and work experience at renowned ophthalmic institutions, including Tufts Medical Center and Boston-Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, have given her extensive experience in state-of-the-art medical, laser and surgical management of glaucoma and cataracts. It is no exaggeration to report that she has performed thousands of sucessful cataract, glaucoma and LASIK surgeries.

Medically Reviewed by The AGEI Educational Team

The Assil Gaur Eye Institute Education Team is dedicated to providing accurate, accessible, and patient-centered eye health information to support not only our patients, but the broader community as well. Working closely with our physicians and specialists, the team helps develop educational content designed to empower patients to better understand their vision, eye conditions, treatment options, and advances in ophthalmology. Our goal is to make complex medical topics easier to understand while upholding the highest standards of clinical accuracy, trust, and patient care.
Dr. Gaur's training and work experience at renowned ophthalmic institutions, including Tufts Medical Center and Boston-Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, have given her extensive experience in state-of-the-art medical, laser and surgical management of glaucoma and cataracts. It is no exaggeration to report that she has performed thousands of sucessful cataract, glaucoma and LASIK surgeries.
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