IPL – Photofacial – Photorejuvenation
    In The SF Bay Area

What is IPL?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, also known as Photofacial or Photorejuvenation. This treatment can correct a variety of skin conditions at a time, including, hyperpigmentation, redness, small veins and broken capillaries, the appearance of large pores, and minor blemishes, all while improving the overall texture of the skin as well. This non-invasive form of treatment can be tailored to an individual’s specific skin type and provides optimal cosmetic results when used on the face, neck, chest and hands. 

How Does Photofacial Work?

A broad spectrum pulse of light (not laser) is transmitted through a hand piece, which is placed gently on the skin. Filters in the hand piece allow the range of the wavelength to be controlled and optimized for different applications and skin types.

The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by either the melanin when treating pigmented lesions or the blood when treating vascular lesions, damaging them.  The body’s natural processes will remove the injured tissue, giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance.

How Is IPL Performed?

A cold gel is applied to the area to be treated and eye shields are placed over the eyes. As the smooth surface of the hand piece is applied to the skin, pulses of light are administered. A slight sting, like the snapping of a small rubber band may be felt. Generally, no anesthetic cream is required as the cold gel and hand piece make the procedure fairly comfortable.

Am I a Good Candidate for IPL (Photofacial)?

Good candidates are those with benign brown spots, age spots, coarse/rough skin, large pores, uneven skin pigment, Rosacea, broken capillaries, and blotchy, red skin on the face, neck or chest.  We require a mandatory skin care consultation before initial treatment. Click here to schedule a complementary consultation.

What Are The Possible Side Effects and Complications?

Immediately following IPL treatment, the skin may appear red and flushed. Some clients may experience a mild sensation similar to a sunburn, and some may experience some temporary flakiness. The tiny capillaries may appear more visible. The brown spots generally appear slightly darker. All of these changes gradually fade over a period of hours to a few days.
*Inexperienced practitioners may cause burns. We have extensive training with our IPL machine (including working for its inventor).

How Long Does Each Session Last and
How Many Sessions Does It Take To Achieve Results?

Sessions typically range from 30 – 45 minutes, depending on the area(s) being treated. Even after the first treatment, the skin will often feel smoother and have a more even tone. These improvements are gradual and will be more visible after each treatment. We recommend 3 – 5 treatments to receive the full benefits of IPL.  The number of treatments is based on the number of conditions we are treating and the severity of those conditions. The treatments are usually scheduled three to four weeks apart. 

To schedule a personal and professional IPL consultation in the Bay Area, call LuminaSkin at (650) 401-6060 or submit a private consultation form online at:  http://www.luminaskin.com/form_consultation.html