Intense Pulsed Light is a non-invasive, non-ablative form of laser skin rejuvenation. As one of the first types of laser skin therapy, IPL has become a go-to treatment for countless patients looking to correct a wide array of skin blemishes. These range from rosacea redness to age-related issues such as brown spots and broken blood vessels. By targeting these areas of discoloration with intense light energy, IPL helps patients improve overall skin clarity and tone while also reducing the appearance of aging.
While IPL is certainly one of the most popular skin rejuvenation treatments available, no two treatment strategies are the same. With that in mind, here’s what you need to know about intense pulsed light treatments before scheduling your consultation.
How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need?
Like many other cosmetic treatments, the number of sessions necessary depends on several important factors – starting with each individual’s cosmetic needs and goals. When IPL is being used to target dramatic pigmentation differences such as brown age spots or melasma, it can take up to six sessions to eliminate excess pigment in deeper layers of skin. In contrast, redness typically appears in the more superficial layers of skin, requiring fewer sessions to improve the skin’s overall appearance.
How Often Should I Receive IPL Treatment?
The number of treatment sessions and skin concerns can also dictate the frequency and timing of treatment. Most patients are recommended to undergo at least three sessions of IPL therapy scheduled at four-week intervals. While the four-week intervals may seem arbitrary, they are in fact specifically timed match the skin’s natural regeneration process. On average, most patients’ skin cells grow and die within a 30-day window. Scheduling treatments any farther than four weeks apart gives these skin blemishes an opportunity to return, somewhat undermining treatment work that has been completed.
How Long Do IPL Results Last?
When patients undergo the correct number of treatment sessions at the right time, IPL can create an important foundation for a lifetime of clear skin. However, the actual treatments are only part of the formula to beautiful skin. Like many other rejuvenation procedures, the longevity of your treatment results depends on your ability to take proper care of your skin.
When it comes to IPL, we strongly encourage patients to continue practicing good skin care and healthful habits that can limit the risk of imperfections returning. Full sun protection is particularly critical for IPL patients who want to prevent age spots or redness from returning. Scheduling annual touch-up treatments can also be an important step in ensuring you enjoy the full benefits of this laser treatment.
Get Started at Portland’s Leading Laser Center
When it comes to laser skin rejuvenation, it pays to entrust your care with an expert. For over 20 years, the Key Laser Institute has provided Portland’s patients with innovative options for addressing age-old cosmetic concerns. Board Certified dermatologist Dr. Key has developed a reputation as one of the leading experts in aesthetic and laser medicine and is proud to share his knowledge with his patients. To learn if IPL is the right laser therapy for you, call 503-291-1953 or schedule your consultation with our Portland specialist today.