Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns including age spots, brown or dark spots, sun damage or sunspots, freckles, rosacea, fine blood vessels, facial redness, and unwanted hair, and it can also serve as a “photofacial” to encourage production of collagen as well as subtly smooth fine lines/wrinkles.

We recommend a course of 3-6 sessions spaced one month apart with a maintenance session every 6 months to 1 year for optimal results.

IPL is a non-invasive procedure where energy is delivered in the form of quick light pulses that improves the appearance of the skin. The treatment typically is slightly uncomfortable rather than painful.

IPL can eliminate unwanted skin pigment, redness, and broken capillaries to stimulate new collagen production.

The downtime is minimal with mild redness over the treatment area for a few hours to a day or two. In most cases, you can resume daily activities immediately.

IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is a gentle non-invasive treatment option that can help patients eliminate unwanted pigmentation, redness, and broken capillaries with the added benefit of boosting collagen in the skin.

IPL can be used to treat specific spots on the body, scars, full face, chest, neck, hands, arms, back, etc. A board-certified dermatologist will work with you to achieve your skin appearance goals in any area of the body, provided the treatment is safe in that area.

IPL treatment results are technically not permanent, however, results may last for years after about 6-8 sessions. Results will vary depending on individual skin factors.

Client should avoid sun exposure and self-tanning products two weeks prior to appointment. On the day of the appointment, patient should arrive with a clean face that is free of makeup or facial skincare products.

While IPL treatment isn’t specifically made for skin tightening, it has been shown to boost collagen production which could improve of sagging skin. However, there are many other devices on the market which are more effective for sagging skin.

IPL treatment may cause acne flares in a few individuals, but is primarily known and proven to significantly improve discoloration caused by acne.

IPL does not improve wrinkle lines. Botox, Fraxel, and microneedling are more effective at addressing wrinkles.

Yes, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments are very effective at reducing the appearance of sunspots, age spots, and other pigmentation irregularities caused by sun damage. The light energy targets melanin in the skin, breaking up dark pigment and revealing a more even complexion. Most patients see clearer, brighter skin after a series of treatments.

IPL is generally safest and most effective for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types I–III). Individuals with darker skin tones may be at a higher risk for side effects like hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, so a consultation with a dermatologist is essential. Customized settings and careful skin assessment can help minimize risks and improve safety.

Yes, IPL can be safely combined with other skin rejuvenation treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing for more comprehensive results. Combining therapies allows us to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously—like pigmentation, texture, and collagen loss. Your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve your skincare goals.

IPL treatments are not recommended during pregnancy, as there is limited research on the safety of cosmetic lasers and light-based treatments for pregnant women. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also make the skin more sensitive or prone to pigmentation issues. It's safest to wait until after delivery to begin IPL therapy.

Yes, IPL is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for rosacea and facial redness. It targets broken capillaries and dilated blood vessels under the skin’s surface, reducing inflammation and flushing over time. Multiple sessions may be needed to see a significant and long-lasting improvement.

In some cases, IPL may cause temporary changes in skin pigmentation, such as darkening or lightening of treated areas. These effects are more common in individuals with darker skin tones or those who have had recent sun exposure. Pre-treatment evaluation and proper aftercare help reduce the risk of unwanted pigment changes.

Before your IPL treatment, avoid sun exposure, self-tanners, and retinoid products for at least two weeks. Come to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin, and let your provider know about any medications or recent procedures. Following pre-treatment instructions will ensure the safest and most effective results.

Mild flaking or peeling is common as sunspots or pigmented lesions darken and naturally slough off over several days. This process is a sign that the treatment is working and the skin is regenerating. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during this phase.

Many patients notice initial results, such as a brighter complexion and fading spots within 7–10 days after treatment. However, optimal results typically appear after a series of 3–6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Ongoing maintenance may be recommended for long-term skin clarity.