MED SPA BLOG
IPL Photofacial FAQs
At SpaMedica in Grand Rapids, we are happy to offer the latest technologies for treating age spots, sun damage, redness, pigmentation, and other frustrating conditions of the skin. The IPL Photofacial –sometimes referred to as “photorejuvenation” – is an incredible, non-invasive treatment that can provide patients with the skin transformation they’ve been looking for.
With the IPL Photofacial, age spots, sunspots, broken capillaries, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, redness, and rosacea can all become things of the past. In this article, we will discuss how the IPL Photofacial can help you achieve clearer, brighter, younger-looking skin.
What causes pigmentation and age spots?
Perhaps not surprisingly, exposure to the sun is the number one cause of skin damage. As a person gets older, the effects of the aging process are only compounded by sun exposure, with pigmentation and age spots among two of the most common results. But thanks to the IPL Photofacial, such conditions of the skin no longer have to be permanent.
What conditions can an IPL Photofacial treat?
Among other conditions, the IPL Photofacial has the ability to drastically improve conditions such as age spots, sun damage, and the redness and flushed appearance of rosacea. IPL Photofacials can also reduce the appearance of freckles and other “hereditary” types of pigmentation.
And, an IPL Photofacial also has the ability to make aging skin look generally more rejuvenated as a whole.
How does IPL Photofacial treat age spots & redness?
The IPL Photofacial treats age spots, redness, and many other skin conditions using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology.
The light energy is calibrated at a specific frequency that passes through the epidermis, and is absorbed by the pigmentation. Thus drawing out the pigment producing cells, as well as dispersing any uneven or concentrated areas of pigmentation.
During an IPL Photofacial the blood vessels below the epidermis also absorb the laser energy – causing them to constrict, which reduces the appearance of the redness.
What is the IPL Photofacial procedure?
The IPL Photofacial is performed by delivering a gentle series of broad-band light pulses to the skin. Unlike other skin rejuvenating treatments, the IPL Photofacial is not performed using a laser, so it is gentler and safer.
The IPL Photofacial also includes skin-cooling technology to ensure a comfortable experience for all of our Grand Rapids patients.
Depending on the size of the treatment area, a single IPL Photofacial treatment session takes roughly 30 minutes. A treatment plan can be comprised of three to five IPL Photofacial sessions, spread apart in three-to-four-week intervals.
The IPL Photofacial provides visible and consistent relief from skin conditions like age spots and redness with no downtime, minimal discomfort, and even less risk of complications.
Is IPL Photofacial safe for all skin tones?
Thanks to something called The Fitzpatrick Scale, determining if someone is a good candidate for the IPL Photofacial is easy. The scale arranges skin color into six categories that range from lightest (Type I) to darkest (Type VI).
Only patients with skin types I – IV are good candidates for IPL Photofacial treatments. Skin types V and VI should not be treated. However, at Spa Medica GR in Grand Rapids, we also offer other exceptional skin resurfacing and tightening treatments available for all skin tones – including darker skin pigmentation.
Who are the best candidates for IPL Photofacials?
The IPL Photofacial works best on individuals with fair to medium-dark skin tones (those who fall between Type I and Type IV on the Fitzpatrick scale). The IPL Photofacial is perfect for people experiencing unwanted redness, embarrassing age spots, visible sun damage – or who simply wish for their skin to look healthier or more youthful.
The IPL Photofacial provides incredible results without the risk or downtime of harsher laser resurfacing or chemical peels.
When will I see IPL Photofacial results?
Our Grand Rapids patients typically notice some improvement immediately after their IPL Photofacial. Depending on the severity of the patient’s skin condition (age spots, redness, or other pigmentation), best results may be obtained either through a single treatment, or a series of several IPL Photofacials.
But while the total number of IPL Photofacial treatments a patient requires is based on their unique individual condition, after a few days, all patients should see a decrease in age spots/redness/etc. as soon as a few days after treatment.
Does an IPL Photofacial hurt?
Thanks to its built-in skin-cooling properties, the IPL Photofacial is virtually pain free – and only emits a strong warming sensation. Patients may experience some redness or swelling immediately after treatment, but both are temporary and will subside shortly thereafter.
Is there downtime after an IPL Photofacial?
No. Our IPL Photofacial patients are able to resume their daily routine as soon as they leave our Grand Rapids, MI med spa.
For the first 2 to 24 hours after treatment, IPL Photofacial patients may experience some mild swelling, as well as a sensation similar to a minor sunburn. These temporary side effects are a perfectly safe and normal part of the healing process, and our patients tend to universally agree that the stunning results are well worth any such temporary discomfort.
IPL Photofacials – Grand Rapids
From redness to age spots and other unwanted pigmentation, transforming your skin has never been easier thanks to the IPL Photofacial. These frustrating conditions no longer have to be a source of anxiety for anyone living in the Grand Rapids, MI area. All it takes is a consultation with Dr. Solon at SpaMedica GR, and you are one step closer to feeling infinitely more comfortable in your own clearer, brighter, smoother skin!
Contact us today to learn more about how to look and feel your best with an IPL Photofacial.
Grand Rapids IPL Photofacials: (616) 888-3890
SpaMedica GR – Grand Rapids Med Spa
APPOINTMENT REQUEST
Achieving your cosmetic goals and giving you the best possible results is our passion at SpaMedica GR in Grand Rapids, MI. We offer a variety of aesthetic treatment options to help you to achieve your cosmetic goals. At SpaMedica GR it’s All About You! We are here to help you make your skin look healthy and beautiful. Call us today to book an appointment for Laser Hair Removal, Injectables, Microdermabrasion with Dermalinfusion, Skin Resurfacing & Tightening, Photofacials, Microneedling, Fat Loss, or any other treatment we offer in our Grand Rapids Med Spa. We are here to help with your aesthetic concerns and will be happy to work with you to give you a natural, youthful look with skin that you will feel great about.
SpaMedica GR
Grand Rapids Med Spa
APPOINTMENT REQUEST
Achieving your cosmetic goals and giving you the best possible results is our passion at SpaMedica GR in Grand Rapids, MI. We offer a variety of aesthetic treatment options to help you to achieve your cosmetic goals. At SpaMedica GR it’s All About You! We are here to help you make your skin look healthy and beautiful. Call us today to book an appointment for Laser Hair Removal, Injectables, Microdermabrasion with Dermalinfusion, Skin Resurfacing & Tightening, Photofacials, Microneedling, Fat Loss, or any other treatment we offer in our Grand Rapids Med Spa. We are here to help with your aesthetic concerns and will be happy to work with you to give you a natural, youthful look with skin that you will feel great about.