Are you struggling with stubborn skin issues that traditional treatments can seem to help? Discover the healing power of intense pulse light therapy at First OC Dermatology!
What is Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Therapy?
Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy is an innovative, non-invasive skin treatment which utilizes the healing power of highly concentrated light beams to help restore your skin’s natural beauty and radiance.
IPL skin treatments help to relieve a variety of skin concerns, including:
- Hyperpigmentation
- Acne
- Birthmarks and freckles
- Rosacea
- Scars and stretch marks
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone
- Uneven skin texture
- Unwanted body hair
If you’re tired of other, ineffective treatments to help improve your skin or remove unwanted body hair, IPL therapy might be for you. Ask your dermatologist about your treatment options and if you might be a good candidate.
How Does IPL Treatment Work?
The science behind Intense Pulse Light Therapy is simple, but effective. Using a specialized device, your practitioner will target areas of concern with short bursts of highly concentrated light wave energy, similar to a camera flash. These rays of visible light heat your damaged skin cells, causing them to break down. Your body will then naturally purge these destroyed cells, replacing them with new, healthy skin.
 IPL therapy works similarly for hair removal. Pulses of light energy are applied directly to the hair root, causing it to go into the dormant phase. This will cause the unwanted hair to fall out and slows the regrowth process of new hair.
 Unlike laser hair removal, which uses focused laser energy to destroy hair follicles, IPL hair removal is a much gentler process that can simultaneously treat discoloration and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin smooth and clear.
Am I a Candidate for IPL Therapy?
Intense Pulse Light Therapy is generally safe for most patients. However, in some cases your First OC Dermatology provider may recommend a different course of treatment or advise against IPL skin therapy.
 IPL treatment is not suitable for pregnant women and those on certain medications like Accutane or blood thinners. Additionally, because IPL therapy involves visible, flashing light energy, patients with a history of epilepsy or photosensitive seizures should not undergo this treatment.
 Because Intense Pulse Light treatments specifically target pigment cells in the skin, those with tan or deep skin tones may not be ideal candidates. IPL therapy can cause changes in skin tone for those with darker complexions.
How Long Until I See Results?
Most patients begin to notice their IPL therapy results within one week of their initial session, with the full results visible in about 4 to 6 weeks. However, it’s important to note that some patients require up to 6 sessions to get the results they are looking for. Each session should be scheduled four weeks apart to allow your skin to heal.
 During your initial consultation and first session, your IPL specialist at First OC Dermatology will walk you through what to expect and recommend a treatment regimen customized to meet your needs. You can schedule your follow up sessions right then to conveniently suit your schedule.
What are the Risks of IPL Treatment?
IPL therapy is a low-risk, non-ablative alternative to other, harsher skin treatments. However, it is not without its risks, especially when administered improperly by an untrained or unlicensed provider. That’s why it’s so important to go to a trusted dermatology practice like First OC Dermatology for IPL and all of your laser and light skin treatments.
The most common side effects of IPL are:
- Temporary redness
- Tenderness and skin sensitivity
- Mild discomfort
- Temporary complexion changes in the treated area
Though uncommon, the more significant potential side effects for IPL therapy include:
- Burns
- Scarring
- Blistering
- Skin infections
- Hyperpigmentation
While Intense Pulse Light therapy uses concentrated light energy to treat your skin concerns, there is no evidence to suggest it increases your risks of developing skin cancer. If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or other causes for concern regarding skin cancer, please speak to your dermatologist prior to getting IPL treatment.
If you’re ready to see the IPL difference, schedule your first appointment with us now!
