Photofacial involves a series of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments that improve the appearance of Rosacea, flushing and sun-damaged skin, age spots, skin texture, and photo aging. Treatment also improves the appearance of mild acne scars, reduces large pores, corrects dark circles around the eyes, and reduces fine lines. Additionally, this exhilarating treatment involves little to no “downtime.” Normal activities immediately resume. Ours offers you solutions through our IPL photofacial in Brentwood and West Hollywood.
IPL Photofacial FAQ
A: An intense light is applied as a series of gentle pulses to the treatment area. Without damaging the skin, the light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the abnormally dilated vessels or pigmentation. Heat then impairs the targeted vessels or lesions, and the body begins a natural healing process. Lesions darken before they flake off or are absorbed by the body. Treatment can take place as frequently as every three weeks.
A: For optimal results, a series of five treatments are recommended. Some patients see significant improvement with two to three treatments while others might require more. Follow-up treatments may be needed once a year to maintain desired results.
- Improved appearance due to sun spots, age spots, dull complexions, uneven pigmentation, large pores, sun-damaged skin, and early signs of aging
- Improves red flushing skin, Rosacea, and broken capillaries
- Enjoy smoother skin that has a more even tone
- Only minor discomfort during treatment
- Immediately resume regular activities
A: Treatment time may range anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. First, the treated area is cleansed and a cool gel is applied. Next, the light treatment is delivered accompanied by only a minor sensation of discomfort. After treatment, the gel is removed, the area is cleansed, and a sunblock is applied. For those with sensitive skin, a cool compress may be applied following treatment.
A: Side effects are rare. Right after treatment, the skin may appear flushed, brown pigmented spots may appear darker, and capillaries may be more visible. In rare instances, temporary swelling and/or blistering can occur. Limiting sun exposure for several weeks prior to and after treatment will greatly minimize the risk of complications.
A: Many patients see a 70% to 90% improvement following treatment and most patients are very happy with their results. After successive treatments, the skin will feel much smoother and appear to have a more even tone.
As many as seventy-million Americans have undesirable redness and/or sun-damaged skin. Sun exposure, alcohol, medication, stress, and aging often worsen the appearance of Rosacea. Rosacea is a common skin condition characterized by redness and flushing skin. Photofacial treatments control flushing and, in many cases, reduce the need for topical cortisone creams and antibiotics.
- Avoid Retin-A, Affirm, Differin, Tazorac, Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy, Salicylic Acid, Astringents, Toners, Renova, and Prevage on treated area(s) for a minimum of 7 days after treatment and seven days before next treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure in the area to be treated for at least 3 weeks prior to your next treatment
- Avoid sun tanning, tanning beds, and tanning creams
- Men: Shave beard hair in area to be treated
- Wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) recommended by your Skinpeccable provider
- Remove make-up, deodorants, and lotions.
- If getting treated on the face and you have a history of cold sores, take cold sore medicine (eg. Valtrex) as directed by the physician.
- You have been in the sun, have visited a tanning bed, or are using tanning creams
- You have started oral antibiotics (Minocycline, Tetracycline, etc.) or Accutane
- You have started Retin-A, Affirm, Differin, Tazorac, or Renova on the areas to be treated
- You are pregnant or are unsure if you are pregnant
- You have an active cold sore. An active cold sore is a contraindication to laser treatments on the face.