Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Address Uneven Skin Tone, Visible Blood Vessels and More in the Denver Area
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.
Choose Expert Dermatological Care at AboutSkin Dermatology & Aesthetics
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.
What Is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)?
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.
What Can IPL Treat?
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.
How Does IPL Work?
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.
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After
Who Is a Good Candidate for IPL?
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.
Your IPL Consultation
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.
IPL Treatment Process
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.
IPL Recovery and Downtime
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.
What Results Can I Expect From IPL?
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.
How Many IPL Sessions Will I Need?
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.
How Long Will My IPL Results Last?
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.
Glow Like Never Before With IPL Treatment Near Denver
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 ConsultationFAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About IPL
Is IPL Safe for All Skin Types?
IPL 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.
Will IPL Remove My Tan?
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.
Can IPL Be Used on the Body?
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.
Does IPL Hurt?
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.
Can IPL Treat Acne Scars?
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.
What Should I Avoid Before IPL Treatment?
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.
Can IPL Be Combined With Other Treatments?
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.
What Other Light Treatments Are Available?
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.
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