Highlights
IPL diminishes sun damage, fine lines, acne scarring, & uneven pigmentation for clearer complexion. Performed by our experienced RN.
About This Deal
What's Included
- One IPL Photofacial
- One Acne IPL Photofacial with Acne Filter
- Photo-Fractional for Face OR Neck (IPL and Laser Skin Resurfacing)
- Type of laser: Lumenis Stellar M22 IPL
This service 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 photofacial 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
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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.
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Melanin and Hemoglobin
The light is absorbed by melanin (which causes pigmentation) and hemoglobin (which causes redness) in the skin.
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Heat and Degradation
The absorbed light energy heats these targets, causing them to break down and be naturally removed by the body.
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Collagen Stimulation
IPL also stimulates collagen production, leading to firmer, smoother skin.
What It Can Treat
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Pigmentation Issues
Sunspots, age spots, freckles, and other types of hyperpigmentation.
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Redness
Rosacea, broken capillaries, and spider veins.
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Acne
IPL can also help with acne bacteria and associated redness.
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General Skin Rejuvenation
Improved overall skin tone, texture, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
Key Differences from Lasers
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Light Type
IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, while lasers use a single wavelength.
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Targeting
IPL can target multiple issues at once, while lasers are often more specific.
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Versatility
IPL is versatile and can be customized to treat different skin conditions.
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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.
Important Considerations
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Skin Type
IPL is generally best suited for lighter skin types.
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Side Effects
Temporary redness, swelling, and bruising are possible, but usually resolve quickly.
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Series of Treatments
Multiple treatments are typically needed to achieve optimal results, with each session lasting 20 minutes to an hour.
