Before your IPL treatment, you’ll have a consultation to determine if IPL is right for you. A test may be performed on a small area of skin to see how your skin reacts. Before the treatment, you will receive instructions on what to avoid, such as waxing, sunbathing, peels, and the use of products containing retinol or glycolic acid.

Your skin will be cleansed and covered with ultrasound gel, which helps protect the skin and enhance the efficiency of the treatment. Both you and the practitioner will wear eye protection. The IPL device is moved over the skin, emitting light pulses. The treatment lasts about 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the indication, and after the treatment, the gel is removed, and sunscreen may be applied.

Little to no recovery time is needed after an IPL treatment, but your skin may undergo a healing process that lasts about a week. Your skin may be red and swollen after the treatment, but you can resume normal activities. Treat your skin gently and use mild skincare products. Avoid the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+.

Most IPL treatment plans are gradual, with a series of up to 6 treatment sessions, 30 days apart. Clients often see improvement within two weeks after their first session, but it may take three to four treatments to see significant results.

IPL is very effective, but the results are not permanent. You will continue to age, and new sun damage and blood vessels may appear after the treatment. To maintain the benefits, most clients undergo regular follow-up sessions.

When performed by an experienced practitioner, IPL is safe and well-tolerated. However, complications can occur if the treatment is not carried out carefully and conservatively. Possible side effects include burns, bruising, blistering, changes in skin color, increased melasma, or even infection.

IPL delivers broad-spectrum visible light at multiple wavelengths, while most laser treatments deliver one intensified wavelength of light. IPL can address various skin issues simultaneously, such as brown spots and red areas, while laser treatments often target one specific problem.

IPL is an effective way to treat uneven skin discoloration, reduce unwanted pigmentation, and minimize redness. It also stimulates the production of new collagen, which helps improve skin texture. Most clients need at least three to six monthly treatments before seeing optimal results.