IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a photorejuvenation therapy that delivers multiple wavelengths of visible light to deeper layers of the skin to help rebuild collagen support tissue, minimize fine wrinkles and shallow scars, and reduce redness and brown spots associated with rosacea and sun damage. A series of treatments is generally needed to achieve optimal results.
IPL is used to treat the following conditions:
• Fine to moderate wrinkles
• Large pores
• Permanent hair reduction or removal
• Facial redness
• Rosacea
• Skin discoloration
Using IPL to Treat Aging/Rosacea Skin
IPL’s multi-wavelength pulse light therapy penetrates the outer layers of skin (epidermis) and delivers light energy to the deeper (dermal) layers of skin. It is within the dermis that collagen, the main supporting structure of our skin, resides and is produced. The light energy tightens collagen protein bundles and stimulates fibroblasts to produce more collagen, which reduces the appearance of facial line, wrinkles, and pore size. Because the light energy penetrates the outer layers of skin, there is none of the peeling and redness associated with traditional laser resurfacing. When treating hyperpigmentation, spider veins, or rosacea, the light energy targets the unwanted pigment (melanin or blood vessels) while leaving the skin intact.
Using IPL for Hair Removal
IPL hair removal therapy is FDA approved for permanent hair reduction. Facial hair goes through an active growing phase every three to six weeks and non-facial hair every eight to 10 weeks. This is the only phase in which hair responds to treatment. Most patients will see a remarkable reduction in both the density and rate of growth within two to three weeks of the first treatment. With subsequent treatments, permanent hair reduction is generally achieved.
Using IPL to Treat Unwanted Blood Vessels and Rosacea
To remove unwanted blood vessels and the red flushing associated with rosacea, concentrated light energy passes through the outer skin to the vessels, where heat destroys the selected target but leaves surrounding tissue intact. The flow of blood is then redirected to vessels deeper in the skin. At the Emory Facial Center, our aesthetician can perform this treatment on your face, neck, and chest.
