An IPL (intense pulsed light) photofacial is a cosmetic procedure that uses pulses of light to treat a variety of skin issues.

The first IPL device was FDA approved in 1995 to treat dilated blood vessels called telangiectasia, commonly known as spider veins. 

IPL photofacials can treat vascular lesions and pigmented lesions at the same time.  

Laser techs frequently use it for photorejuvenation, to decrease brown spots from sun damage on fair to medium skin tones. 

It can minimize broken capillaries and redness related to rosacea, acne, and acne scars.  

IPL photofacial treatments can also stimulate collagen production in the dermis and improve signs of aging, like fine lines.  

While it can disable hair follicles to reduce unwanted hair, this treatment option is not as effective as laser hair removal. 

An IPL device works by delivering an arc of light energy that penetrates the skin, heating and destroying pigmented molecules, without harming the surface (the epidermis), so there’s little to no downtime afterward. 

This broadband light treatment can be performed on the face, hands, neck, chest, and legs. The size of the head of the IPL device is usually larger than most laser spot sizes, which allows for rapid treatment of large body areas. 

Most people need a series of IPL photofacial treatments to see optimal results. They’re typically performed three to four weeks apart.