My Treatment Overview

I’ve had one IPL at a cost of $550.00. Skip it, not worth the money.

What is IPL?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy uses multiple wavelengths of light to treat a larger skin area in less time compared to single-wavelength laser treatments. Unlike lasers, which emit a single, focused wavelength, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths of light pulses. These pulses heat and break down melanin in the skin, effectively reducing discoloration.

Most IPL systems emit wavelengths between 500 and 1200 nm, with filters available to block lower wavelengths as needed. This versatility enables IPL to simultaneously target various aspects of photo-aging, such as vascular issues, pigmentation, and texture. IPL is generally quicker, safer, and less painful than some other treatments due to larger spot sizes, though the results may sometimes be subtler.

Many people use IPL to reduce signs of aging, lighten scars, diminish dark patches, and improve the appearance of spider veins. Think of it as helping clear age-related spots before they become more visible on the skin’s surface.

IPL Studies

Studies have shown IPL to be especially effective in treating inflammatory acne with minimal side effects. In a 2016 clinical trial, 74 participants with mild to severe facial acne received IPL on one side of the face and Nd

laser (commonly used for pigmentation concerns, including age spots and sun damage) on the other side. After three sessions at four-week intervals, both IPL and Ndshowed similar reductions in inflammatory acne lesions, with a reduction rate of about 67-70%.

My Personal Experience with IPL

My IPL experience was a bit uncomfortable, though I was numbed beforehand. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the results. I had expected the sun damage to rise to the surface of my skin like freckles and then flake off, but this was minimal in my case.