Intense Pulsed Light is a proven way to eliminate acne scars, sun damage, and wrinkles. This safe treatment uses light-emitting diodes in combination with pharmaceutical-grade topical creams for maximum results and minimum discomfort. Our specialists perform photofacial treatment, or IPL, in Princeton, NJ, for patients looking for a non-invasive solution. IPL treatment is different for each patient, and the Glasgold Group is dedicated to finding the perfect treatment for you.
- What is IPL? (Intense Pulsed Light)
- What are the Benefits of an IPL Treatment?
- What Areas Does IPL Target?
- Who are the Best Candidates for IPL Treatment?
- Preparing for IPL
- How IPL Treatment is Performed
- Possible Risks or Side Effects of IPL Treatment
- How Much Does IPL Cost in New Jersey?
- Aftercare for Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
- IPL Treatment FAQs
What is IPL? (Intense Pulsed Light)
A photofacial is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to correct facial imperfections. These are not the same thing as laser treatments, which only treat surface-level issues. Photofacials consist of IPL treatment, which stands for Intense Pulsed Light.
This type of treatment delivers visible light into the skin in short bursts. This light penetrates the skin, leaving the surface of the skin undamaged, and is absorbed by the unwanted discolored spots. The pigmented skin coagulates and tightens, darkening before sloughing off to reveal bright, fresh skin.
The light energy used is delivered at a specific range of wavelengths, depending on the nature of the problem area. The broad wavelength enables IPL devices to penetrate deeper into the skin, effectively removing the source of unwanted pigmentation while leaving surrounding tissue unaffected.
What are the Benefits of an IPL Treatment?
For intense pulsed light therapy, removing unwanted discoloration is only a part of the goal; brightening skin and increasing youthful elasticity is also as important. For that reason, IPL is used with collagen stimulation to banish fine lines and ensure the treated areas retain a youthful appearance.
IPL is generally well-tolerated by most people and causes only mild discomfort for the duration of treatment. IPL is completely safe and effective, and, best of all, there is no downtime.
Depending on the patient, results can be seen in anywhere from one to three treatments. For longer-lasting results, several treatments set five weeks apart may be effective for a much longer period.
What Areas Does IPL Target?
IPL can treat problems on any part of the body, including:
- Dark spots, tattoos, and birthmarks on the face
- Sun-damaged skin on the face and neck
- Acne scars on the body
- Broken capillaries on legs and arms
- Rosacea or brown pigmentation around nose, cheeks, and mouth
- Ingrown hair removal from bikini & underarms — requires multiple treatments over
- Age Spots: Brown spots brought on by natural aging or sun exposure
Who are the Best Candidates for IPL Treatment?
IPL treatment is viable for anyone with fair skin suffering from conditions such as rosacea, broken capillaries or blood vessels, sun spots, and pigmented lesions. Photorejuvenation can also treat enlarged pores and fine wrinkles. Patients with darker skin, spray-tanned, or tanned skin are not good candidates for this treatment, as hyperpigmentation is more likely. Patients prone to cold sores should consider suppressive therapy before an IPL treatment to avoid any potential outbreaks.
Preparing for IPL
A consultation is necessary to ensure IPL treatment matches each patient’s desired outcomes. A qualified professional will talk with the IPL candidate about their skin concerns. During this time, the patient’s medical history and current skin condition will be discussed in order to determine if IPL is an appropriate treatment.
Every aspect of the patient’s goals is taken into account to pinpoint the exact method of treatment that will be most effective. Individual plans are drawn up for each patient’s unique treatment, including cost.
Photofacial treatment pictures will be available, so you will know what to expect. Consultations are also a chance for doctors to discuss the best skincare routine with patients that will maintain results for as long as possible.
How IPL Treatment is Performed
A typical treatment can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. First, a numbing cream such as Lidocaine or Tetracaine is applied to the area that will receive treatment. After 20 minutes, a thin layer of clear gel is applied to cool and protect the skin.
Protective eye shields are then put in place. The flat sapphire or quartz tip (also called a handpiece) that transmits the light is positioned in the gel, administering a series of quick pulses that are sequentially applied to the area. This may appear as several harmless bright flashes as the light transmits through the skin.
Minor discomfort can occur in the form of a sharp, stinging sensation, like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Local anesthetic is not required as the treatment is very easy to tolerate.
Once the treatment is finished, the skin is cleaned and protected with sunscreen. There is no downtime—you can immediately apply makeup, go outside, and continue your skincare regimen.
Possible Risks or Side Effects of IPL Treatment
Photofacial treatment side effects may include mild discomfort, similar to that of sunburn, on the affected areas for a few hours post-treatment. Hyperpigmentation may be an issue for patients, so it is advised to wear sunscreen and try to avoid long-term exposure to the sun. Your doctor will discuss the best ways to maximize your treatment and make it last as long as possible.
How Much Does IPL Cost in New Jersey?
IPL treatment prices may vary from office to office and based on the individual’s needs. You can expect pricing to start at $400 per session, with multiple sessions required for optimal results, though prices can be discussed during your consultation at our Princeton, New Jersey, office.
Aftercare for Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
Take care to apply a moisturizer to the affected area as often as possible. Patients should expect peeling and flaking of the skin over the next 24 hours, but this is not uncommon. It usually takes around two weeks for your skin to show results fully. As soon as you treat one spot, it is encouraged to treat another area, which will maximize collagen production as your skin slowly rejuvenates itself.
Use sunscreen and stay out of the sun for up to 30 days after treatment. It is recommended that you revisit us for a review with your doctor in around two weeks so we can determine if any additional treatment is necessary.
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IPL Treatment FAQs
There is no downtime with Photofacial treatment and patients may return to work the next day.
The Intense Pulsed Light treatment can take one to three treatments to see visible results. Long-lasting results may require more than a few sessions over five weeks.
Intense Pulsed Light treatment does not guarantee immediate results, but long-term benefits may be seen. IPL can provide an almost instant fix to several skin issues. Based on the patient’s specific goals and desires, sometimes more than one round of treatments is necessary.
Although IPL is most commonly used on the face, it can also be used in other problem areas. Intense Pulsed Light makes the neck, hands, chest, and back easily treatable. The broad surface area of the light even makes it easier to treat big patches.
IPL is beneficial for those with sensitive skin as the light does not cause any damage to the skin. It can reduce redness and inflammation commonly seen in sensitive skin conditions; however, it is important to talk to an expert before undertaking IPL.
If you are in the Princeton area, you can visit the Glasgold Group located at 4390 US-1 #100, Princeton, NJ 08540, and talk with experts about the IPL treatment.
Choosing an experienced specialist is crucial to make you feel comfortable and guarantee you get the results you’re looking for. The Glasgold Group offers detailed planning and consultations to capture the exact way you want to look! Call us at (732) 846-6540 or fill out our contact form to get more information on your IPL treatment in Princeton, NJ, today!
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