IPL Treatment In Southampton

What Exactly Is IPL Treatment And How Does It Work?

Let’s explain with an example:

Let’s say you want to remove freckles on your skin. We can target these freckles with a particular wavelength of the light pulses, so that the cells making up the freckles are damaged. Your body will then clean up and remove these damaged cells, and replace them with new cells that do not have pigmentation of freckles.

The IPL treatment can be customized to target specific skin conditions by adjusting the wavelengths and pulse duration. For example, shorter wavelengths of light are absorbed by superficial pigments, such as those found in age spots and freckles, while longer wavelengths can penetrate deeper into the skin to target redness and blood vessels.

A laser on the other hand, generates a precise light that only has one wavelength, and moves in a single direction. This results in a solitary beam, much like a laser pointer. Thus, lasers are better suited for treatments that require a highly focused approach, such as removing tattoos and thick hairs.

What Conditions Can IPL Therapy Treat?

How Much Does IPL Therapy Cost?

How Should I Prepare For The IPL Treatment?

There are certain things you should and shouldn’t do before you undergo IPL treatment. Here are our recommendations:

Avoid Sun Exposure: Avoid sun exposure for at least a week prior to the treatment. This includes sunbathing, tanning beds, and self-tanning products. If you must step out in the sun, we recommend that you wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30. The reason is that all of the above encourages production of melanin, which can interfere with the IPL treatment.

Avoid Certain Products: Avoid using products that contain retinol, glycolic acid, or any other skin sensitizing agents for at least 2 weeks before the treatment. This is because these ingredients can make your skin more sensitive and reactive to the intense light used in IPL therapy.

Avoid Certain Medications: Avoid taking any medications or supplements that thin the blood, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, or fish oil, for at least a week before the treatment. The reason is that these substances can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding during the treatment.

Discontinue antibiotics: If agreed by your doctorfor, discontinue antibiotics at least 2 weeks before the treatment. This is because antibiotics can increase the skin’s sensitivity to light, making it more prone to burning or other adverse effects during the treatment. Furthermore, some antibiotics can cause photosensitivity, which can lead to an increased risk of sunburn and other skin damage.

Avoid smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin, which can lead to slower healing and increased risk of complications during and after the treatment. Smoking can also increase the risk of skin damage, and delay the healing process. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid smoking for about 6 weeks before the IPL treatment, to achieve optimal results. 

Cleanse your skin and don’t wear makeup: Make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly on the day of your treatment. Also, avoid using any moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup on the day of the treatment. To work as intended and to avoid unnecessary complications, IPL photofacial requires direct access to your skin. Therefore, you should arrive at your appointment with a cleansed face that is free of makeup or any other products.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before the treatment to keep your skin hydrated. This is because the light energy used in IPL therapy can be absorbed by the water in the skin. When there is enough water in the skin, the light energy can be effectively absorbed, leading to better results and minimizing the risk of adverse effects, such as burns or pigmentation changes. 

Stop exfoliating: We advise that you stop exfoliating a week before your treatment. Exfoliation can cause skin irritation, redness, and sensitivity, which can make the skin more prone to damage during the treatment. Exfoliating can also remove the top layer of dead skin cells, which can act as a protective barrier against the light energy used in IPL therapy. By removing this layer, the skin becomes more vulnerable to burns, blisters, and other adverse effects.

What Can I Expect During The IPL Treatment?

Upon your arrival, our priority is to ensure your comfort and relaxation. We will then provide you with a thorough explanation of each step of the treatment to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what to expect.

Before the treatment, your skin will be cleansed and photos will be taken for your record. Then we will outfit you with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the light.

Then the treatment can start.

The technician will start to apply pulses of light with the IPL device to the treatment area. Although this process should not be painful, you may feel slight discomfort.

After the treatment, we will apply a soothing lotion to cool down your skin, and we also apply an SPF 50 sun protection.

How Long Does The IPL Laser Treatment Take?

Rosacea: The treatment time for rosacea depends on the size of the treatment area, but most treatments take about 30 minutes.

Vascular lesions: IPL treatment for vascular lesions such as spider veins, broken capillaries, and hemangiomas typically takes around 15-30 minutes per session, depending on the size and number of the areas being treated.

Hair removal: The duration of IPL treatment for hair removal depends on the size of the area being treated. Typically, it takes around 15-30 minutes for smaller areas such as the face, underarms, or bikini area. For larger areas like the legs or back, treatment can take up to an hour or more.

Wrinkle treatment: IPL therapy for reducing fine lines and wrinkles normally takes around 15-30 minutes per session.

Scars: The duration of each IPL session for scar reduction typically ranges from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated.

Stretch marks: The length of time required for IPL treatment to reduce stretch marks usually varies between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on the extent of the area that needs to be treated.

Does IPL Therapy Hurt?

The level of discomfort will depend on the length of the wavelengths we use, and also on your individual pain sensitivity. Some clients hardly notice any discomfort at all, while others say it almost feels like having a rubber band snapped on the face.

We normally do not apply a numbing cream to take away discomfort.

Why?

Since this is a treatment involving light waves that cause cell damage (the entire purpose is to cause cell damage that will in turn generate new skin cells), we need you to tell us if or when the treatment is too painful. If it gets too painful, we will stop, take a short break and adjust the intensity.

When Will I See Results From The IPL Treatment?

In general, improvement from IPL treatment is often the most noticeable starting around a week after the first session. However, for optimal results, it’s recommended to undergo a series of IPL treatments spaced out approximately a month apart for each session. The greatest improvement is typically seen within 3 to 6 months after completing a series of treatments.

However:

The timing of results from IPL treatment can vary depending on your particular skin type, the severity of the condition being treated, and the number of sessions required. In some cases, noticeable improvement can be seen after the first session, while in others, it may take several sessions to see a significant improvement.

Also, please note that if you treat a pigmentation issue, Rosacea or acne, the condition will often become slightly worse over the next few days, before it starts getting better. That is because the IPL therapy damages the cells that carry the conditions we want to treat, hence the condition may be more pronounced until your body heals this controlled damage.

How Long For Your Skin To Fully Heal After IPL Therapy?

After undergoing an IPL treatment, it typically takes the skin around 7-10 days to fully heal. It’s important to keep in mind that this timeline can vary depending on the individual’s specific condition, and the intensity of the treatment.

For those seeking IPL treatment to address pigmentation issues, here is a general day-by-day timeline that can serve as a reference or guideline:

On day 1, the skin may appear red and blotchy, with a sensation similar to that of a sunburn. Additionally, darkening of spots or pigmentation may occur.

On days 2-3, the skin may feel tight and dry. The dark spots may start to resemble “coffee grounds.”

Days 4-6 may see the skin becoming even drier, as the dark spots start to slough off and fade away gradually.

Finally, on days 7-10, there will be continual sloughing and fading of dark spots. The skin will gradually return to its normal state, looking more even-toned, radiant, and healthy.

Are The Results From IPL Treatment Permanent?

The results from IPL laser treatment are typically long-lasting, but not necessarily permanent. The duration of the results can vary depending on the individual’s skin type, the severity of the condition being treated, and lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and skincare regimen.

Here is an overview for each condition:

Pigmentation issues: The results from IPL treatment for pigmentation issues (sunspots, age spots, freckles, hyperpigmentation, etc.) are typically long-lasting, and can be permanent.

However, although IPL treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of pigmentation issues, it does not prevent the development of new spots or discoloration in the future. Continued sun damage, hormonal changes, or aging, can lead to new pigmentation issues over time.

Acne: The results from IPL laser treatment for acne are typically not permanent but can provide long-lasting improvement. IPL treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of active acne, acne scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), but it does not prevent new acne from forming in the future.

Rosacea: The results from IPL laser treatment for rosacea are typically not permanent but can provide long-lasting improvement. The results can last for several months or even years. IPL treatment can effectively reduce the redness and inflammation associated with rosacea, but it does not cure the condition.

Vascular lesions: The results from IPL laser treatment for vascular lesions are typically not permanent but can provide long-lasting improvement. IPL treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of spider veins, broken capillaries, and hemangiomas, but it does not prevent new lesions from forming in the future.

Hair removal: While IPL can provide long-lasting hair reduction, the results are generally not permanent. After a series of IPL treatments, most people will experience a significant reduction in hair growth, and some may even experience complete hair loss in the treated area. However, it is possible for new hair follicles to form over time, especially in areas with hormonal changes or fluctuations.

Wrinkles: The results from IPL treatment for wrinkles and fine lines can last several months, but are not generally considered to be permanent. IPL works by targeting the deeper layers of skin with light energy, which can stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and tone. While IPL can provide noticeable improvement in the appearance of wrinkles, the results may fade over time as the natural aging process continues.

Skin rejuvenation: The results of IPL treatment for skin rejuvenation can also last for several months, but are generally not considered to be permanent.

Scars: The results from IPL treatment for scars are typically long-lasting and can be permanent. However, although IPL treatment can effectively reduce the appearance of scars by promoting collagen production and breaking down scar tissue, it normally does not completely eliminate scars.

Stretch marks: IPL laser treatment can produce long-lasting results for stretch marks, which may even be permanent. While this treatment can be effective in reducing the appearance of stretch marks by promoting collagen production and breaking down stretch mark tissue, it is important to note that it is not typically able to remove the stretch marks 100%.

Regardless of the condition you want to treat, please note that follow-up treatments may be necessary to maintain the results over time, depending on your response to the initial treatment.

To achieve optimal results, it’s typically recommended to undergo a series of IPL treatments spaced out over several weeks or months. The exact number of treatments required depends on the severity of the condition and your response to the treatment.

Are There Any Side Effects From IPL Therapy?

IPL therapy can produce side effects, but they are normally mild and temporary. After 7 days, all side effects from the treatment are normally gone. It’s also important to note that side effects can vary depending on the individual’s skin type, the area being treated, and the intensity of the treatment. 

Here are the most common side effects:

Skin redness and swelling: IPL therapy can cause temporary redness and swelling of the treated area. This is a normal response to the treatment, and should resolve itself within a few hours to a few days. Applying cool compresses can help alleviate these symptoms.

Skin discoloration: IPL therapy can cause temporary changes in skin pigmentation, particularly in people with darker skin tones. This is usually a mild and temporary side effect that goes away within a few days.

Blistering and crusting: In rare cases, IPL therapy can cause blistering and crusting of the skin. This is more likely to occur in people with sensitive skin or those who have undergone high-intensity treatments. If blistering or crusting occurs, it’s important to keep the affected area clean and dry, and to avoid picking at the skin.

Skin infections: IPL therapy can increase the risk of skin infections, particularly if the treated area is not kept clean and dry after treatment. It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by our staff to minimize the risk of infection.

Eye damage: IPL therapy can be harmful to the eyes, so it’s important to wear protective eyewear during the procedure. Our staff will provide appropriate eye protection, and it’s important to keep the eyes closed during treatment.

What To Do (And Not Do) After The IPL Treatment?

Immediately following an IPL photofacial treatment, it is normal for your skin to appear somewhat blotchy, red, and slightly swollen. Additionally, you may notice darkening of sun spots or pigmentation. The skin may also feel tight or mildly sunburned.

Despite these temporary side effects, it is safe to apply natural makeup or tinted SPF after the treatment because the skin is not open.

After the IPL treatment, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure proper healing and to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.

Here are some things you should do:

Apply cool compresses: Applying cool compresses to the treated area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in cool water, or wrap ice packs in a towel and apply them to the skin.

Keep the treated area clean and dry: It’s important to avoid touching or rubbing the treated area, and to keep it clean and dry. Avoid using harsh soaps, scrubs, or exfoliants for at least 24 hours after treatment.

Use sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential after the IPL treatment, as the skin will be more sensitive to sunlight. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to the treated area, and reapply every 2 hours.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Be gentle: Overall, be gentle to your skin that is now more sensitive than normal.

Follow the specific aftercare instructions that we give you: Depending on your condition and your specific treatment, we will provide specific instructions for aftercare, including any medications or topical treatments that should be used.

Here are some things you should not do:

Do not pick at or scratch the treated area: Picking or scratching at the skin can increase the risk of infection and slow down the healing process.

Do not exfoliate your skin for at least seven days. This is to prevent further irritation or complications with your skin.

Do not use hot water: Avoid using hot water on the treated area for at least 24 hours after treatment. Hot water can increase blood flow to the skin, which can increase swelling and discomfort.

Do not expose your skin to high temperatures: Try to avoid excessive heat from saunas or steam rooms for at least 24 hours.

Do not expose the treated area to sunlight: Sun exposure can increase the risk of skin damage and slow down the healing process. It’s important to avoid direct sunlight on the treated area for at least 48 hours after treatment.

Do not do strenuous exercise: Strenuous exercise can increase blood flow to the skin, which can increase swelling and discomfort. It’s best to avoid exercise or other strenuous activities, for at least 24 hours after treatment.

Also be careful using makeup, cosmetics or lotions that can irritate the skin for at least 24 hours after treatment. Do not use harsh ingredients on the skin like retinols. It’s best to use natural products to the extent possible.

Following these guidelines can help ensure proper healing and maximize the effectiveness of the IPL treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about aftercare, please contact us.

Pros And Cons Of IPL vs Laser

Get A Free Consultation! 👍

If you’re new to IPL treatment and are curious, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation. Our team of Southampton specialists is dedicated to helping you understand our treatments and find what is best for you.

During your consultation, we will listen to your concerns and goals, and we will help you as best we can with our knowledge and experience. While IPL may be the optimal solution, we understand that each person’s skin type and needs are unique. As such, we offer a range of treatments, and we’ll help you find the treatment that suits you best. It may nor be IPL after all.

Our consultation service is completely free of charge, and our clinicians are friendly, approachable, and eager to help. We want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident, and we’ll take the time to answer any questions you may have.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation! We’ll help you explore your options and guide you every step of the way towards achieving your skin and beauty goals.

Feel also free to email or call us with any question. 👍

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