Some people assume intense pulsed light and laser light are the same things, but they are different. Laser energy is delivered in a single wavelength. Intense pulsed light delivers a broad spectrum onto treatment areas. By using different filters to allow certain wavelengths through, different skin problems can be treated with IPL.
An IPL FotoFacial at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery provides gentle skin rejuvenation without downtime. IPL FotoFacials are good for treating the effects of sun damage, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and other skin problems.
How does it work?
Our IPL treatments are usually 30-minute procedures. Pulses of “intense” light are directed onto the target areas of the skin. This light penetrates deeply, through the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) into the dermis beneath. The light energy causes the body to perceive it as an injury, responding by constricting the collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis, reducing redness, lines, and scars. The body also signals the need to create new collagen to address the “injury.” Since collagen is the body’s skin support protein, new collagen helps fill wrinkles and scars and makes the skin appear younger.
What happens during the IPL session?
To begin, you’re given protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the bright flashes of light. A cooling gel is applied to the more sensitive target areas, acting both as a lubricant and coolant for the skin. As the light is applied to your skin, you will feel a warm sensation from the handpiece. The feeling of the light entering your skin is often compared to a light snap from a rubber band.
The results of an IPL FotoFacial at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery are similar to those of a medium chemical peel without any of the downtime. Since the procedure encourages collagen production, it takes a series of sessions to achieve the results you seek. Some patients see some immediate results; others see results after the second or third session. Dr. Beaty recommends patients have a series of five treatments, each spaced three to four weeks apart.
Interested in addressing your sun damage, pigmentation issues, or acne scars? Call us at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery, (770) 753-0053, to schedule your IPL session.
