What is IPL?
IPL or Intense Pulsed Light (aka Photofacials) use a broad spectrum of light to target melanin (the pigmented cells forming sun spots and pigmentation after acne lesions) and hemoglobin (the red cells that are found in blood vessels and redness that remains after acne lesions.) Red and brown marks on the skin can be greatly reduced after a series of IPL treatments. A series of 3 or 4 treatments is generally required for the best results. The treatments should be spaced 3-5 weeks apart.
Can IPL Photofacials be used to treat acne?
Yes, IPL photofacials have been shown to help both active acne and the scarring the remains after acne lesions clear. Intense Pulsed Light can be combined with other in-office treatments to provide the best improvement of active acne and acne scarring.
Can IPL Photofacials be used to treat anything besides acne scarring?
IPL photofacials can be used to address many skin conditions, including acne spots, sun spots, wrinkles, enlarged pores, rosacea, freckles and melasma. IPL photofacials can be used on the body as well as the face. Many patients have treatments to acne scarring on their chest and back, as well as their face.
What should I expect during me Intense Pulse Light treatment in NYC?
There is no numbing cream necessary prior to IPL Photofacial treatments. Upon arriving in the office, you will cleanse your skin and then a gel will be applied to the area to be treated. The treatment itself takes approximately 15 minutes. After the treatment, the treated area will be cleaned and sunscreen will be applied prior to leaving the office.
Is there any downtime after Acne Scarring Photofacial treatments?
There is no downtime after an IPL photofacials treatment. You may have some redness around the treated area, but you may apply makeup immediately after the treatment if desired. Most patients return to their work or social engagements immediately after their IPL photofacial treatment.
Are IPL photofacials painful?
IPL laser treatments are not painful. There is a warm sensation felt over the treated area, but patients feel only very mild discomfort. There may be mild redness after the treatment and patients should avoid prolonged sun exposure in the days following their procedure.
How many Intense Pulse Light treatments are required to treat acne scarring?
Most patients require three to five IPL photofacial (sometimes called fotofacials or fotofacial) treatments. The treatments are performed at intervals of three to five weeks. The price of IPL in NYC at our office is $550 per treatment.
