IPL photofacial is effective for all skin types, but results may vary for each person. Some skin tones are more suitable for the treatment and experience maximum benefits. Darker and tan skin tones may have a risk for temporary pigment changes from this treatment.
It is essential to always choose an experienced, board-certified dermatologist for your IPL treatment who can assess your specific skin type and concerns to determine whether IPL is the best treatment option for you.
Who is a good candidate for IPL Photofacial?
Good candidates for IPL facials are individuals who are concerned about sun-damaged skin. Signs of sun damage include:
- Sunspots
- Age spots
- Melasma
- Facial redness
- Rosacea
- Red blood vessels
IPL photofacial treatments may also benefit those looking for an effective anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatment to address concerns like:
- Large pores
- Shallow acne scars
- Acne discoloration
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Broken capillaries and facial veins
Individuals with untanned skin that have reasonable expectations for their results, and prefer a non-invasive approach to skin rejuvenation, tend to see the best results from IPL laser facials.
Who should not get an IPL Photofacial?
People with tanned or darker skin tones may not be good candidates for IPL procedures. Other treatments, such as RF microneedling, might provide a safer, more effective option. Patients with deep wrinkles, severe acne, or deep scars may find that laser treatments might produce better results.
Why is IPL not suitable for dark skin?
The darker the skin color, the more difficulty the IPL device has in distinguishing darker pigmentation caused by sun damage from the skin’s normal pigmentation. Unlike lasers, IPL photo facial devices emit a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths. Some of these wavelengths have an extremely high melanin absorption coefficient, and IPL may cause discoloration or increase the risk of burns on melanin-rich dark skin.
Patients should only seek IPL treatments from skilled and experienced providers with expertise in using the IPL device settings to produce the safest and most effective outcome.
Schedule a consultation for IPL Photofacial at our San Diego medical spa
At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists offer a comprehensive variety of 50+ lasers, including our most popular IPL photofacial devices,Lumenis Stellar M22and Lumenis One. With a wide array of device options, we have the ability to treat multiple skin concerns and suit each patient’s unique skin type and goals.
Dr. Mitchel Goldmanhelped develop the first IPL device for treating common skin issues. Each of our dermatologists have been involved in research studies involving IPL, giving our San Diego team the most experience performing IPL facial treatments than any other practice in the country.
If you’re considering an IPL photofacial treatment or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Cosmetic Laser Dermatology today.
Next, learn how an IPL photofacial can treat your rosacea.
FAQs
The best candidate for an IPL Photofacial is any adult individual struggling with the following: Acne, Age Spots, Fine Lines, Injury Scars, Skin Discoloration and Wrinkles.
Who is a good candidate for an IPL Photofacial? ›
Good candidates for IPL facials are individuals who are concerned about sun-damaged skin. Signs of sun damage include: Sunspots. Age spots.
Who should not get an IPL Photofacial? ›
Who Should Not Get An Ipl Photofacial? Because IPL targets pigment, those with tanned or darker skin tones are NOT candidates for treatment.
Who is suitable for IPL? ›
IPL is not suitable for everyone. It is most effective on light to medium skin tones with hair ranging from natural blonde to dark brown or black. The device is not effective on very blonde, red, grey or white hair where the smaller amount of melanin would not absorb the light energy.
Who should get IPL treatment? ›
IPL treatment has the best results for people who have lighter skin tones. If you have darker skin tones, it may not be the best option for treating your pigment, vein, or other skin issues. Our highly trained staff will review expected results with you before you have the treatment.
Who should not have IPL? ›
Safety, risks, and side effects
IPL is safe for most people but is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women and people who are on blood thinners, for example, should avoid IPL.
What is the age limit for IPL photofacial? ›
There is not an age limit but you may need parental consent prior to getting IPL treatments.
Who is not suitable for IPL? ›
You should also avoid IPL if you are pregnant, breast feeding, menstruating, have tanned recently, or are on certain medications, including isotretinoin. Many drugs can have a side effect of photosensitivity, so if you are on any medication at all it is very important to mention this to your practitioner.
When should you not use IPL? ›
That being said, you should avoid using your IPL on extra-sensitive areas such as the genitals, nipples, or anus, as this could cause inflammation.
Is IPL right for me? ›
IPL works on all skin types, but it's most beneficial for fair skin. Those with darker skin may still benefit from IPL treatments.
Although side effects of IPL are typically rare and minimal in severity, the most common adverse events include pain and erythema.
What are the disadvantages of IPL? ›
One significant concern is the potential for player burnout due to the hectic schedule. With players participating in multiple domestic and international competitions throughout the year, IPL adds to their workload, increasing the risk of injuries and fatigue.
Is IPL treatment worth the money? ›
Why Consider IPL Treatments? Despite the cost, many find IPL treatments a worthwhile investment. IPL can significantly improve skin texture, reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, and tackle pigmentation issues.
What skin type is best for IPL? ›
IPL is best for lighter skin types as the Intense Pulse Light is searching for melanin (sun damage, brown spots) in the skin to pull up to the surface and to eventually lift and flake off.
What age is IPL recommended? ›
Both treatments do not require a certain age to start the journey with IPL or Laser Hair Removal treatments. Adults of any age are free to do so anytime without restrictions. These treatments are versatile and can be safely and effectively performed on adults.
What skin conditions does IPL improve? ›
IPL skin rejuvenation is a non-invasive light therapy treatment that uses very brief pulses of extremely bright light to treat various skin conditions, including sun damage, rosacea, "age spots, pigmentation and fine wrinkles and unwanted hair.
What skin tones does IPL work on? ›
IPL hair removal tends to work best on people who have both fairer skin and darker hair. This is because IPL hones in on the dark pigment (melanin) in the hair, damaging the follicle and stunting regrowth.
