Sun-damaged skin can become brittle and discolored. Damaged skin cells reproduce equally damaged replacement cells. Hyperpigmentation such as age spots and enlarged freckles are also common in middle-aged adults who have spent a lot of time in the sun. These problems cannot always be solved through resurfacing or chemical peel procedures. One of the more innovative treatments for discolored skin is phototherapy.
Intense pulsed light, or IPL, is a popular treatment for restoring naturally toned facial skin. IPL treatments work by subjecting the skin layers and supportive tissues to broad-spectrum light pulses. We recommend this treatment for those who are seeking a non-surgical means to even out the skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, age spots and freckles.
What is IPL?
Laser treatments for skin damage involve the use of a single wavelength of light. The light energy is highly concentrated and can actually cauterize skin tissue. This procedure is used to target small areas where damaged cells exist. On the other hand, IPL is a specialized treatment that uses various wavelengths of light.
The instrument used in IPL treatments can send out a light beam that contains several frequencies. Depending on the density and tone of the targeted tissue, only certain wavelengths will be absorbed. In this way, the medical professional can use the instrument to send light energy through the upper skin layers, targeting only the darker tissues that lie beneath.
When the lamp flashes a rapid pulse of energy, darker tissues heat up and the collagen in the targeted area constricts. This actually results in the production of more collagen. The blood vessels also constrict, and the body responds by sending nutrients to the affected area. After several treatment sessions, the skin begins to become more even in tone, wrinkles become less noticeable and the skin is more supple and smooth.
What Patients Can Expect
During IPL treatments, the lamp is placed next to the skin, and the light is pulsed rapidly. Each pulse lasts only a few milliseconds. After several pulses, the lamp is moved to a new location and the procedure is repeated. The sensation is similar to being snapped by a rubber band. A general anesthetic is not required.
Advantages of IPL Treatments
Unlike chemical peels, the skin does not flake away after IPL treatment. Instead, the body treats the injury as a minor sunburn. This stimulates rapid tissue growth. Abrasive resurfacing techniques can actually create discolored patches of skin. A series of IPL treatments actually even out the skin tone.
Dermal fillers may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but will not heal sun-damaged skin. The same is true with facelifts. The main advantage of IPL treatments is that no repositioning of skin is necessary. There’s also no downtime after treatment.
Find Out More
At Laser Skin Solutions Jacksonville, we offer complete consultation services for those wanting to know more about how IPL treatments work and how they can help to reduce or eliminate the visual signs of aging due to environmental factors such as sun exposure. Our office is located in Jacksonville Beach. Contact us today to schedule your consultation for IPL treatments.