• One IPL Photofacial
• One Acne IPL Photo Facial with Acne Filter
• Photo-Fractional for Face OR Neck (IPL and Laser Skin Resurfacing)
• Type of laser: Lumenis Stellar M22 IPL

This services is best for lighter skin tones (1-3 on the Fitzpatrick Scale). Call (415) 923-3800 to ask if you're a good candidate.

An IPL photo facial is a cosmetic procedure using intense pulsed light (IPL) to address various skin concerns like discoloration, redness, and sun damage. It's a non-surgical treatment that improves skin tone and texture by targeting melanin and hemoglobin in the skin.

How it works:

• Broad Spectrum Light: IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, unlike lasers which use a single wavelength, allowing it to target multiple skin imperfections simultaneously.
• Melanin and Hemoglobin: The light is absorbed by melanin (which causes pigmentation) and hemoglobin (which causes redness) in the skin.
• Heat and Degradation: The absorbed light energy heats these targets, causing them to break down and be naturally removed by the body.
• Collagen Stimulation: IPL also stimulates collagen production, leading to firmer, smoother skin.

What it can treat:

• Pigmentation Issues: Sunspots, age spots, freckles, and other types of hyperpigmentation.
• Redness: Rosacea, broken capillaries, and spider veins.
• Acne: IPL can also help with acne bacteria and associated redness.
• General Skin Rejuvenation: Improved overall skin tone, texture, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Key differences from lasers:

• Light Type: IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, while lasers use a single wavelength.
• Targeting: IPL can target multiple issues at once, while lasers are often more specific.
• Versatility: IPL is versatile and can be customized to treat different skin conditions.
• Safety: IPL is generally considered safe for lighter skin types (I-IV), while lasers like ND:Yag and PicoSure are safe for all skin types.

Considerations:

• Skin Type: IPL is generally best suited for lighter skin types.
• Side Effects: Temporary redness, swelling, and bruising are possible, but usually resolve quickly.
• Series of Treatments: Multiple treatments are typically needed to achieve optimal results, with each session lasting 20 minutes to an hour.