Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a type of light therapy used to address signs of aging, specifically photoaging. This non-invasive, anti-aging treatment is ideal for those struggling with a variety of signs of aging, including wrinkles, age spots, uneven skin tone, broken capillaries, rosacea, sun spots, large pores, brown spots, freckles, and rosacea.
For your photofacial, you will be given dark glasses to protect your eyes. A handheld device is passed over your skin, emitting a heating sensation as it penetrates the top layer. The pulses may sting your skin, but overall it is fairly pain free. During the treatment, light is absorbed into the targeted color cells within the skin. Then, light converts into heat energy which damages the skin. As the skin healing process begins, collagen production is stimulated, thus improving the texture and tone of your skin.
IPL is similar to laser treatments, except IPL releases light of many different wavelengths opposed to one wavelength. Also, the scattering of light from IPL is less focused than a laser. Thus, IPL is able to penetrate to the second layer of your skin (dermis) without harming the top layer (epidermis), therefore causing less damage to your skin. In fact, many patients prefer this treatment over other laser options and even typical facials. There is little to no downtime.
FAQ’S
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
For your photofacial treatment, our providers will create a tailored plan based on your skin. Usually you will need 3-6 treatments for best results.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF THE TREATMENT?
When done by an experienced provider, IPL Photofacial is safe. Potential side effects are scars, swelling, bleeding, infection, and blistering. It can also cause hormonal brown spots to flare up. There is little to no downtime following the treatment, and you can return to regular activities almost immediately after the treatment. Dark spots, such as freckles or sun spots, may look darker immediately following the treatment, and will crust off over time. This process may take up to 10 days.
HOW LONG WILL RESULTS LAST?
IPL Photofacial treatments will permanently remove dark spots from the skin, as well as redness and uneven skin tone. While these results are permanent, it does not prevent dark spots or freckles from returning after unprotected time in the sun. Daily sunscreen use is essential to prevent spots and sun damage from returning.
HOW CAN I SAVE ON TREATMENTS?
Naya offers up to 20% off per treatment for our members, along with generous discounts on all other services. Check out our membership options here!
WHAT ARE THE CONTRAINDICATIONS?
Caution should always be taken before undergoing medical treatment of any kind. IPL Photofacial may not be right for you if:
- You’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- You have a skin condition or take medication for other conditions
- You’re sensitive to light
- You have recently tanned using sunlight, tanning beds, or tanning creams
- You might have skin cancer
- You’re using a retinoid cream
- You’re very dark-skinned
- You have a skin resurfacing disorder
- You have severe scarring or keloid scar tissue
Please discuss any additional concerns that you have about undergoing this procedure with Naya Spa and your primary care physician prior to treatment.