IPL photofacial

Intense pulsed light for redness, brown spots and sun damage.

No referral needed · at ActivMD Derm Spa, next door to our clinic

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is photorejuvenation: a non-invasive approach to skin rejuvenation and collagen stimulation using infrared light.

IPL improves skin tone and the surface imperfections associated with aging, photodamage and especially vascular conditions such as rosacea. The procedure is ideal for any part of your face, neck or décolleté that shows redness, telangiectasia (tiny veins) or brown spots. It has been recommended for skin discolouration from sun damage and for the flushing symptoms of rosacea.

Treatment time30 to 60 minutes

SessionsAbout 5, 3 to 4 weeks apart

AnesthesiaTypically not needed

DowntimeLittle to none

What is intense pulsed light treatment?

IPL is a photorejuvenation treatment that focuses primarily on irregular pigmentation, sun damage, and discolouration or brown spots on the surface of the skin or face. A broad spectrum of light is transmitted through a small, smooth, transparent handpiece that is gently placed over the skin. Cut-off filters in the handpiece change the wavelength range, so it can be optimized for different applications and skin types.

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

What IPL treats

IPL can treat a number of different skin conditions, including:

Age and sun spots
Rosacea
Uneven skin tone
Freckles
Unwanted hair
Enlarged pores
Broken capillaries and blood vessels

Benefits of IPL

Even skin tone, with removal of brown spots and sunspots
Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
Removal of broken capillaries
A refreshed, glowing appearance
Tighter skin texture, by stimulating the growth of new collagen and elastin

Our IPL technologies

This therapy can truly reveal brighter, clearer and more youthful skin. At Rao Dermatology, we have two ideal IPL photorejuvenation technologies, Sciton BBL and the Cutera Limelight, so we can choose the best one for your skin type.

Frequently asked questions

How long does treatment take?

Treatment generally takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific skin condition and the number of areas you wish to address.

Does it hurt?

Each pulse of light feels like a slight pinch, sting or pin prick; some patients have compared it to the snap of a rubber band. Overall, treatment is generally well tolerated, and anesthesia is typically not necessary. Dr. Rao will do everything in his power to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.

Are multiple treatments necessary?

For optimal results, we often recommend a series of about five treatments spaced approximately three to four weeks apart; however, this may vary based on your unique skin type and concern.

What happens after the treatment?

Immediately after your IPL treatment, you may notice some darkening of brown spots. Broken capillaries may be reduced but are sometimes initially darker or bruised. Depending on the condition being treated, you will notice some pinkness. Most brown spots take 3 to 10 days to completely slough off. It is important to resist picking, peeling or scrubbing the darkened areas for at least 2 weeks.

Little to no downtime can generally be expected. In fact, most patients resume their normal daily routines shortly after leaving our office.

What about side effects?

Side effects from IPL therapy can include some minor redness in the treatment area. This temporary flushing can often be concealed with makeup and should resolve relatively quickly. You may also notice some darkening of any brown spots that were targeted during treatment, but this too should fade over the course of a few days as your skin heals from within.

Conditions it treats

Book your consultation

Our team is committed to working with you to develop a synergistic approach for enhancing your skin’s health and reducing the signs of aging. Dr. Rao has extensive experience and expertise in IPL treatments in Edmonton.

During your consultation, he will address your specific needs and goals, answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure, and recommend the best treatment plan for achieving your desired results.

Book a consultation
Before and after gallery