What Is IPL?
Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy is a laser treatment that uses heated wavelengths of light to target both the surface and deeper layers of the skin. It is highly effective in treating hyperpigmentation, blood vessels, and even unwanted hair. The light energy causes pigmented areas to flake off, revealing smoother, more even-toned skin underneath. Learn more about laser skin treatments at Neu Look Med Spa.
Who Is a Good Candidate for IPL?
IPL is a versatile procedure ideal for patients dealing with a range of skin concerns. It can effectively treat hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory pigmentation or erythema, sun spots, acne scars, stretch marks, spider veins, fine lines, wrinkles, and rosacea. If you’re seeking a solution to uneven skin tone and visible aging signs, IPL could be a great option for you.
Who Should Avoid IPL?
Patients with darker skin types (IV and V on the Fitzpatrick scale) should avoid IPL, as it can cause uneven melanin distribution and potential skin damage. Skin type III can be treated with less intense sessions, though multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve optimal results while prioritizing skin safety. In some cases, our providers may recommend pre-treatment with hydroquinone products to prepare the skin.
IPL is generally ineffective for treating melasma due to its hormone-related nature and high likelihood of recurrence.
Additionally, those with active skin infections, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should postpone IPL treatments. If you have an important event and cannot have any redness or flaking within 3–5 days post-treatment, we recommend rescheduling your session.
What Can I Expect at My IPL Appointment?
IPL treatments typically take between 15–30 minutes, including consultation and preparation. Popular treatment areas include the face, neck, chest, and hands. During your appointment, a Neu Look provider will assess your skin to ensure you’re an appropriate candidate and will explain the process and expected outcomes in detail.
After placing protective eyewear on you, a cooling gel will be applied to the skin to enhance comfort and allow the laser device to glide smoothly. Treatment usually involves targeting specific spots of concern first, followed by a full-area pass. Many patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin, though sensitivity levels vary. Our providers continuously monitor your comfort throughout the session.
Unlike some other procedures, IPL treatments at Neu Look do not involve numbing cream, as it’s essential for providers to gauge real-time skin sensations for effectiveness and safety.
What is the Recovery Like?
Immediately following your IPL session, you may experience some redness due to the heat of the treatment. This redness usually begins to subside within the same day and typically resolves fully within 2–3 days. Treated pigmentation areas will darken temporarily before flaking off, revealing clearer, more even skin within about a week.
Healing timelines can vary depending on treatment intensity, age, post-care practices, and overall skin quality. Most patients require 3–4 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart. Additional treatments may be recommended depending on your individual skin needs and response.
After treatment, we apply sunscreen to protect your skin. It’s crucial to minimize sun exposure in the days following IPL therapy. If you must be outdoors, reapply sunscreen every 3 hours and wear protective clothing like hats or gloves, especially if your hands were treated. A proper moisturizer is also essential to promote healing and minimize flaking. We recommend SkinMedica’s Dermal Repair Cream and TNS Ceramide Cream for post-IPL recovery.
To ensure a smooth healing process, you’ll receive detailed written post-care instructions at your appointment.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Appointments are filling up quickly so be sure to book your appointment today by calling us at (858) 538-5665, or booking online here: https://neulookskin.com/book-now. Please note, pricing is dependent on accessibility to Allē and Aspire rewards programs.