IPL treatment is a non-invasive treatment modality useful for several skin conditions including vascularlesions, benign pigmented lesions, unwanted facial/body hair, as well as facial skin rejuvenation.
IPL (flashlamp) therapy, works in a similar way to laser. The lightenergy is absorbed by target cells (chromophores) in the skin, and the increase in energy in these cells results in the required clinical outcome. Whilst lasers have a specific wavelength of energy, IPL systems use a broad spectrum of light energy which is refined by the use of filters enabling more specific targeting of chromophores.
Consultation Process
Our treating practitioner will assess and discuss with you:
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Your suitability for IPL treatment
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Expectations of a successful treatment course
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Pre-treatment skin care advice
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Post-treatment skin care advice
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Requirements for analgesia
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Potential complications
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Costs, treatment area and treatment time
What to expect?
Pain
Actual IPL treatment feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin for a fraction of a second. During treatment, intense cooling is provided by our Zimmer cooling unit, providing an analgesic effect, as well as exceptional protection of the upper layers of the skin from unwanted injury.
Alternative analgesia is provided at Camberwell Dermatology by way of inhalation and topical anaesthetic, to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Post-Treatment
The appearance and sensation following a treatment is similar to sunburn. The skin is red, slightly swollen and there may be a tingling sensation. This may last up to 24-48 hours. Less commonly, crusting and blistering can develop. If the necessary precautions are taken, only very rarely, are changes of hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation or scarring seen.
If treating pigmented lesions, the lesions often darken, form a light crust, then heals with clearer skin over a period of 1 to 2 weeks.
IPL for hair removal does not result in the hair falling out immediately. The target for IPL treatment in hair removal is the follicle. As a result, successful treatment will result in regrowththat is slower & less dense after each treatment. Generally, four to six treatments are required.
Cold packs and emollients are applied post-treatment. It is important to maintain sun protection in all treatment sites.