Light can harm the skin or help it. Sunlight, for example, bombards the skin with ultraviolet radiation, which can cause numerous medical and cosmetic problems, including pigmentation irregularities. Intense pulsed light (IPL) at the Denver area’s AboutSkin Dermatology & Aesthetics, on the other hand, can help to even the skin tone. The treatment is ideal for addressing pigment problems on the face, hands, neck, chest and virtually anywhere else they may develop, helping you restore your skin’s natural glow.
Dr. Joel L. Cohen, the director of AboutSkin Dermatology & Aesthetics, is a renowned leader in the field of cosmetic dermatology. With extensive experience in clinical trials, lectures and publications, Dr. Cohen is committed to advancing dermatologic treatments and educating peers in the industry. At AboutSkin, our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists collaborates to offer cutting-edge treatments and the highest level of care. Our expertise in IPL therapy is backed by years of experience and a deep understanding of skin health.
Intense pulsed light is a versatile skin rejuvenation treatment that utilizes broad-spectrum light to target various skin imperfections. Unlike traditional lasers, IPL emits multiple wavelengths of light, allowing it to treat a range of skin conditions in one session. IPL treatments are generally well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort and no significant downtime.
When it comes to the skin, darker-pigmented cells more readily absorb light energy than lighter cells, converting it to heat that can increase significantly in a short amount of time. IPL takes advantage of this by specifically targeting dark lesions and regions, including sun spots (lentigos), brown spots from a skin condition known as melasma, freckles, visible or broken vessels and more.
The IPL device is not a laser but, instead, a specialized tool that produces broad-spectrum light in numerous scattered wavelengths. It works by emitting pulses of this light that penetrate the skin without causing damage to the surface. This light enters the skin and is absorbed by the melanin-producing cells that cause dark-colored spots and the hemoglobin in visible blood vessels.
As these cells or proteins heat up, they are damaged or killed. In the case of brown lesions, this leads to spots gradually flaking away to reveal skin with a clearer tone. In the case of visible or broken blood vessels, this leads to their collapse. Damaged and unused vessels are then absorbed by the body without negatively impacting the circulatory system. The ultimate result is skin not marked by dark spots, fine lines or general redness.
While individual results vary, our before and after photo gallery showcases actual patients treated at AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics. These unretouched photos demonstrate the natural-looking improvements our patients have achieved through their customized treatment plans. During your consultation, we’ll discuss realistic expectations for your specific case and develop a personalized plan to help you achieve optimal results.
View Before / After Gallery
Before
After
IPL is a versatile treatment that can benefit individuals with a variety of skin types and concerns. It is particularly suitable for those with light to medium skin tones, as darker skin tones may require a different treatment approach. You may be a good candidate for IPL if you are dealing with sun damage, age spots, redness, broken capillaries or an uneven skin tone and texture. To determine if IPL is the right treatment for your specific skin concerns, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our Board-Certified Dermatologists at AboutSkin.
During your IPL consultation at AboutSkin Dermatology & Aesthetics, Dr. Cohen or one of our other Board-Certified Dermatologists will assess your skin concerns and discuss your goals. We’ll develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This consultation is an opportunity to ask questions, understand the treatment process and ensure that IPL is the most suitable option for you.
On the day of your IPL treatment, you’ll be comfortably seated while we prepare your skin. A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area to enhance your comfort. Our specialist will then use the IPL device to deliver precise pulses of light to the targeted areas. The treatment typically takes about 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Intense pulsed light passes through the surface of the skin, so it is not considered an “ablative” treatment, which removes all or portions of the outermost layers in the targeted area. Because of this, IPL is not known for causing significant downtime after a session. You can resume your normal activities immediately after the treatment, although your treated skin should be protected from ultraviolet radiation by applying sunscreen or staying out of direct sunlight.
The treated skin will appear red and swollen in the hours and days after an IPL session, after which the targeted lesions gradually improve in appearance over the course of days or weeks. Patients who are concerned about the side effects after an IPL treatment can discuss this during an initial consultation.
Results from IPL treatment gradually become noticeable as your skin heals and regenerates. Within a week or two, you’ll see a reduction in pigmentation, improved skin tone and a more youthful appearance. However, the full benefits of IPL may take several weeks to manifest as your skin continues to regenerate fully.
Most patients require a series of three or more sessions spaced about four weeks apart to achieve optimal results. Each session builds upon the last, progressively enhancing your skin’s clarity and radiance.
Our Dermatologists will guide you on the best treatment plan based on your skin’s needs.
The longevity of IPL results varies depending on your skin type, the severity of the treated conditions, how many sessions you undergo and how well you care for your skin post-treatment. With proper skincare, including regular sunscreen use and maintenance treatments as recommended by your AboutSkin expert, the results of IPL can last for several months to a year. Periodic touch-up sessions may be advised to maintain your skin’s clarity and vibrancy.
Ready to rejuvenate your skin and address stubborn pigmentation imperfections with IPL? At AboutSkin Dermatology & Aesthetics, our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists, led by Dr. Joel L. Cohen, is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results.
Call us at 303-756-7546 or request your consultation online to learn more about how intense pulsed light treatment can help you achieve radiant, healthy skin.
Book Your ConsultationIPL is most effective for light to medium skin tones. If you have darker skin, our Dermatologists will recommend alternative treatments better suited to your skin type.
IPL targets pigmentation, so it can affect tanned skin. We recommend that you avoid tanning before and after your treatment to achieve the best results and reduce the risk of complications.
Yes, IPL is versatile and can be used to treat pigmentation issues on various parts of the body, including the face, neck, chest, hands and even legs. Your Dermatologist will recommend the best areas to treat based on your specific concerns.
While IPL is generally well-tolerated, some patients describe the sensation as a mild snapping or stinging feeling during the treatment. The discomfort is usually brief and can be minimized with cooling gel or topical anesthetic if necessary.
Yes, IPL can effectively reduce the appearance of certain types of acne scars by targeting pigmented areas and promoting collagen production, which helps improve skin texture over time.
Before your IPL session, avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and harsh skincare products like retinoids. Your Dermatologist will give you detailed pre-treatment instructions to promote the best outcomes.
Yes, IPL can be combined with other treatments such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion to enhance your results. Our Dermatologists will advise you on the best combination of treatments to achieve your goals.
AboutSkin Dermatology uses photodynamic therapy to treat precancerous lesions and acne, as well as lasers for many skin treatments, including laser hair removal and laser skin resurfacing. Fractional laser treatments, which may be ablative or non-ablative, can address numerous skin conditions.
Women and men are invited to call the AboutSkin Dermatology team to discuss their specific medical or cosmetic dermatology needs. Our Board-Certified Dermatologists, aestheticians and more can create a plan designed to generate effective results.
With AboutSkin’s virtual consultations, you can easily highlight specific skin concerns on your face or body and connect with a dermatology professional. Receive personalized guidance and a custom care plan—all from the comfort of home. Schedule your consultation today!
Let Your Skin Glow
Let Your Skin Glow
Let Your Skin Glow
Let Your Skin Glow
Tag us on Instagram @aboutskindermatology
By clicking submit you consent for us to contact you by phone, text or email using to the data provided, even if the contact info is on a state or national DNC list. You also consent to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
5340 South Quebec ST., STE. 300 (South Entrance)
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Fax: (303) 756-7547
IMPORTANT CHANGES: Effective April 1st, 2025, we will only be contracted with and accepting some Medicare, Tricare, United Healthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Sheild, and Veteran’s Affairs medical insurances. Please contact your insurance to verify that we are in network using our Tax ID, 200-683-363. This decision was not made lightly, and we understand that this will impact some of our patients. For those affected, we are pleased to offer competitive self-pay options designed to make our care as accessible as possible. Please refer to the patient resources section for our self-pay rates.
Notifications