IPL Photo-Rejuvenation

Intense light is emitted in a series of short pulses. The light is directed into the skin, and then absorbed by small blood vessels and over-stimulated melanin within the epidermis and dermis. This causes the skin to heat up and causes very mild, reversible thermal damage to the epidermis. The skin acts to repair this by increasing the rate of production of collagen, these are the fibres that support the skin. The stimulation of these fibres reduces fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in an improved appearance of the skin texture. Many people also see a more uniform complexion and pigmentation of the skin.

A cool gel is applied to the face. The gel cools the face, but also ensures optimal transmission of light from the applicator to the skin.

The quartz applicator is placed in contact with the skin surface.  The light is pulsed through the quartz and onto the skin.  The applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is covered.  After treatment has finished, the skin will be cleansed and moisturised.

The more melanin in the skin, the more heat will be produced so it is therefore not possible to treat dark-skinned and tanned individuals.  The ideal patient is fair skinned but the energy can be adjusted to suit darker skin types.  If there are any areas of broken skin, the treatment should be delayed until the area has completely healed.  There are other contraindications which would prevent a patient from being treated, this is checked and discuss during the consultation.

As the light energy is absorbed by the skin, it heats it up, and creates a mild pinprick, burning sensation. Most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. No anaesthesia is required. 

The visible light is completely safe so no special precautions are needed apart from safety eyewear for the brightness.  The skin of some patients becomes quite red immediately after treatment.  However, most patients experience no side effects and the described skin reactions usually disappear within hours to a couple days. Very rarely pigmentation changes or blistering may occur.

Treatment sessions are recommended every 4 weeks. The actual number of sessions needed varies from person to person, but usually about 2-6 treatments are carried out, with top-up sessions as required.

Patients should avoid any sun exposure and must not use any fake tan for 4-6 weeks prior and during the entire treatment period to avoid excessive discomfort from excessive light absorption and adverse damage in the epidermis.  Immediately after the treatment, the skin is particularly sensitive to UV light, and strong sunlight should be avoided for 2-4 weeks.

An IPL Photo-Rejuvenation facial treatment, usually takes about 45 minutes.