It would be easy these days to hear the word “photofacial” and assume it’s the latest craze in selfies. But your skin would miss out. At Dr. Beaty’s we use Intense Pulsed Light treatments to counter the effects of sun damage, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and more.
What is Intense Pulsed Light?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is similar to laser technology, but it is different. IPL employs a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, rather than the single wavelength used by lasers. This broad spectrum of light energy enables us to use IPL on several different skin issues.
What is a photofacial?
A photofacial is a non-invasive procedure where we direct short pulses of intense light onto the patient’s skin. This energy penetrates the skin and causes collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis (the skin’s outer layer) to constrict, reducing redness, sun spots, broken capillaries, age lines, and other issues. Results from IPL photofacials are not immediate, as the improvements show over the next few weeks as the body sheds damaged cells and builds new collagen and skin cells.
Who is right for a photofacial?
Photofacials are intended for people with white, untanned skin, as the procedure can cause skin pigmentation problems in those with darker skin tones. This isn’t a dramatic procedure, as it isn’t intended for problems such as heavy facial lines or severe acne scarring. IPL photofacials at Dr. Beaty’s are great for patients with vascular scarring, broken capillaries, sun spots, rosacea, uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and large pores.
When will I see results from a photofacial?
Immediately following your session, your skin will likely appear flushed and any previously broken capillaries will seem more visible, but both of these issues will resolve within a few hours. Patients usually opt for a series of photofacials, as results tend to build. In the next few weeks following your session, your age spots will fade, pores will shrink, and fine lines and wrinkles will gradually decrease in size. Pigmentation issues will even out, replaced by a radiant appearance on your skin.
Dr. Beaty normally suggests 3-5 full-face IPL photofacials for optimum results. These are spaced every three weeks.
Want to improve your skin for the New Year? Call us at (770) 753-0053 and ask about our IPL treatments.
