How Safe is IPL Treatment for my Skin?

IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy is growing in popularity for managing common cosmetic problems, like hyperpigmentation. While this procedure is considered safe by many, some side effects are associated with IPL treatment. It is important to speak with a professional, like licensed aesthetician Lori Alessandrini, to understand all the benefits and risks involved before moving forward.

Essential Aesthetics & Laser offers the latest IPL technology to address even minor skin concerns. Call our trained team in Charlotte, NC to schedule your first consultation. We are committed to your safety and overall satisfaction.

How does intense pulsed light therapy work?

Hyperpigmentation comes in many forms, including freckles, sun spots, and redness. Intense pulsed light therapy uses pulses of light energy that penetrate the tissue and treat skin concerns at their source. Treatment also stimulates collagen production, which repairs damaged areas and evens out the complexion. Essential Aesthetics & Laser offers IPL for the face, neck, and chest for full-coverage results.

What side effects are expected with IPL?

While there is little downtime associated with IPL treatment, side effects, like redness and inflammation, are common. These should subside naturally in about a day. Essential Aesthetics & Laser recommends over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce discomfort and swelling.

Intense pulsed light therapy causes irregularities to rise to the surface of the skin and then flake away. Patients should not peel at the flaking skin, which can lead to scarring. Results should be visible soon after treatment, with optimal results appearing after multiple sessions with Lori Alessandrini in Charlotte, NC.

How do you reduce your risk of side effects?

It is essential to follow all post-care instructions after intense pulsed light therapy. These guidelines include information about what to avoid and how to clean and care for your skin. We may recommend certain products to help speed up the healing process and improve your results.

Tips for reducing your risk of side effects may include:

• Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays cause skin damage and irritation. Wear a high-SPF sunscreen and cover the treated areas when spending any amount of time outdoors.

• Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms: Hot temperatures only increase swelling. It is best to spend time in room temperature environments instead.

• Gently cleanse the skin: Use a mild cleanser and pat dry instead of rubbing your skin. Do not use harsh soaps, scrubs, or exfoliants, as these irritate your complexion.

• Apply moisturizer: Keeping the skin hydrated is key to promoting healing. We recommend using a light moisturizer with natural ingredients to keep sensitive skin calm.

How do you prevent side effects from IPL?

Lori Alessandrini always performs a skin assessment to ensure patients are good candidates for intense pulsed light therapy. Patients with lesions in the treatment area, damaged skin, or a history of severe side effects to laser treatments should avoid IPL at this time. Please inform our team if you take medications that make your skin sensitive to light. We work hard to provide each patient with the safest and most effective treatment possible.

Safe and effective IPL

Hyperpigmentation and skin concerns, like freckles, sun spots, and redness, affect many people at any age. If you are ready to manage these beauty concerns with IPL treatment, call Essential Aesthetics & Laser for a consultation in Charlotte, NC. Licensed aesthetician Lori Alessandrini is dedicated to providing each patient with individualized care and beautiful results.