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 as different as 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
- How Much Does IPL Cost in New Jersey?
- Aftercare for Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
- FAQ
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 used is delivered at a very 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 part of the goal. Brightening skin and increasing youthful elasticity are also important. For that reason, IPL is used in conjunction with collagen stimulation to banish fine lines and make sure the treated areas retain a youthful appearance.
IPL is generally well-tolerated by most people and has caused only mild discomfort for the duration of treatment. Best of all, there is no downtime. IPL is completely safe and effective.
Results can be seen anywhere from between one to three treatments, depending on the patient. 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 & 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 damage, and discolored facial spots. Photorejuvenation can also treat enlarged pores and fine wrinkles. Patients with darker skin, spray-tanned, or tanned skin are not good candidates for 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 make sure IPL treatment matches each patient’s specific desired outcomes. 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 with patients the best skincare routine that will maintain results for as long as possible.
How IPL Treatment is Performed
A typical treatment can take anywhere from thirty to sixty minutes. First, a numbing cream such as Lidocaine or Tetracaine is applied to the area that will receive treatment. After twenty 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 absolutely no downtime—you can immediately apply makeup, go outside, and continue with your skincare regimen.
Possible Risks or Side Effects
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 with you the best ways to maximize your treatment and make it last for 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. 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 twenty-four hours, but this is not uncommon. It usually takes around two weeks for your skin to fully show results. 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 thirty days after treatment. It is recommended that you visit us again for a review with your doctor at around two weeks so we can determine if any additional treatment is necessary.
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FAQ
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.
Immediate results are not guaranteed with Intense Pulsed Light treatment, 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 be used in other problem areas. The neck, hands, chest, and back are all easily treatable using Intense Pulsed Light. The broad surface area of the light even makes it easier to treat big patches.
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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