Spas use a variety of high-tech treatments to fight common skin problems. We take a closer look at one such treatment, an IPL photofacial. A photofacial is a generic term for a skin treatment that uses some form of light-based technology. An IPL photofacial is a noninvasive, nonablative treatment that uses high-intensity pulses of visible light to improve such skin conditions as fine lines and wrinkles, freckles, age spots, rosacea, port-wine stains, and facial veins. It may also help treat mild to moderate acne and stretch marks, and it spurs collagen production. The practitioner then places the treatment head to the skin and delivers precise pulses of light to the skin. The treatment generally lasts about 20 minutes. Though the light is safe, it is recommended that clients and practitioners wear goggles or some form of eye protection during the procedure. Most systems use filters to refine the light-energy output for certain areas. The treatment targets the lower layers of skin without affecting the top layers.
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What Is IPL™ Photofacial/Fotofacial?
Photofacials—a skin treatment that uses a light-based technology to boost collagen and lighten the appearance of blemishes—requires high-tech equipment and is offered at medical spas, specialized resorts, and holistic care centers. There are many different types of photofacial procedures available, making it important to understand the difference between the various rejuvenation technologies. And while there's relatively little recovery time associated with these types of procedures, you may want to avoid one altogether while on vacation because side effects may arise and UV exposure can agitate already sensitive skin. They are much different than your regular facial. LED treatments often referred to as a non-IPL or "light therapy" work best for minor skin problems since they act only on the outer layer of the skin's epidermis.
Candidates
Intense Pulsed Light IPL Photofacial is a laser light treatment that targets pigment issues, such as brown spots, sun damage and red spots, and Rosacea. The bright light passes through the epidermis, drawing out the pigment producing cells and dispersing the uneven pigment. IPL Photofacial can be used on the face, neck, chest, shoulders, back arms, legs and just about anywhere else. Photofacial is also an effective treatment for broken veins and spider veins. According to Stanford Medical University, the long-term effects of Photofacial actually reverse the signs of aging. IPL Photofacial is Intense Pulsed Light that emits multiple wavelengths into the skin and effectively targets pigment producing cells below the surface of the skin. The light energy is converted to heat energy and destroys the hyperactive melanin producing cells in the layers of your skin, eventually dispersing pigmented areas.
Say goodbye to the effects of sun damage, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and more. The procedure involves only minimal discomfort, while the redness and swelling that sometimes occur after treatment disappear shortly. People who have blotchy, sun-damaged, or discolored skin, or whose skin is affected by large pores, freckles, or wrinkles, may benefit from an IPL TM photofacial. The procedure is also quick and involves no downtime, making it a convenient option for people with busy schedules. Those with dark or deeply tanned skin sometimes experience complications following IPL TM photofacial treatment. Patients should discuss such issues with a trained dermatologist before undergoing treatment. People with white, untanned skin that is still somewhat elastic are the best candidates for an IPL TM photofacial. It is also important for patients to have a realistic understanding about what the procedure can do.
