We all love a sunny day, but years of UV exposure can leave its mark: those tell-tale sunspots, freckles, and a generally uneven skin tone. These signs of sun damage can make us look older than we feel, but Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), often called a photofacial, is a powerful, non-invasive treatment specifically designed to help your skin recover.
How IPL Targets and Reverses Sun Damage
An IPL photofacial works by delivering precise pulses of broad-spectrum light directly into the skin. This light energy is absorbed by the pigment in sunspots and freckles or tiny blood vessels. The targeted energy gently heats these pigmented areas, causing them to break down. Over the next week or two, these treated spots naturally rise to the surface and flake away, revealing clearer, more even skin underneath!
Beyond just clearing spots, IPL also stimulates your skin’s natural collagen production. This helps to improve overall skin texture, reduce fine lines, and give your complexion a refreshed, youthful glow that often diminishes with sun exposure.
It sounds straightforward, but the treatment requires precision. The settings have to be customized to your exact skin type which is why our licensed estheticians have been trained to conduct a thorough assessment before your treatment.
How IPL Can Help Treat Sun-Damaged Skin
- Fades Sunspots & Age Spots: Effectively breaks down and removes brown spots caused by UV exposure.
- Reduces Freckles: Diminishes the appearance of scattered freckles for a more uniform look.
- Even Skin Tone: Addresses overall discoloration and blotchiness for a smoother complexion.
- Minimizes Redness: Calms sun-induced redness and visible capillaries.
- Boosts Collagen: Improves skin texture and elasticity, counteracting sun-related aging.
- Non-Invasive: Achieve significant results without surgery or extensive downtime.
Is IPL Right for Your Sun-Damaged Skin?
IPL is an excellent choice for individuals looking to visibly reduce the effects of sun exposure. You might be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have noticeable sunspots, age spots, or freckles
- Experience overall uneven skin tone or blotchiness from UV damage
- Want to reduce sun-induced redness or visible capillaries
- Are seeking a non-surgical solution to rejuvenate your complexion
IPL may not be suitable for very dark skin tones, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those on certain light-sensitizing medications. A personalized consultation is necessary to ensure IPL is the best and safest option for your skin.
IPL Treatment Quick Facts
At DSA, IPL sessions are quick, typically lasting around 60 minutes and a mild redness or a sensation of warmth is common immediately after, usually subsiding within a few hours. Treated sunspots may temporarily darken before flaking away. You’ll typically see initial improvements after 1–2 sessions, with optimal results achieved after a series of 3–5 treatments. The collagen-boosting effects continue to enhance your skin’s appearance for weeks after your final session.
Aftercare for Best IPL Treatment Results
Proper aftercare is crucial for maximizing your IPL results and protecting your newly rejuvenated skin:
- Expect treated sunspots to darken before flaking off (do not pick!)
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily and avoid direct sun exposure
- Keep skin hydrated with gentle, non-irritating moisturizers (ask our estheticians for recommendations)
- Avoid harsh exfoliants for a few days
- Skip hot showers, saunas, or intense exercise for 24 hours