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Intense Light Therapy: Everything You Need to Know

Aug 07, 2023

Intense pulsed light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment option that utilizes specialized light sources to help alleviate a variety of conditions. In this article, we will delve into the basics of intense light therapy and explore its potential benefits and uses.

Whether you have considered intense light therapy (IPL) as a treatment option and need more information on it or simply want to learn more about it, this article will provide you with everything you need to know.

Overview

IPL is a skin treatment that uses a computer-controlled flashgun to emit an intense, broad-spectrum pulse of light with a range of 400 to 1200 nm wavelength. Unlike laser treatments, which utilize a single wavelength of light, IPL releases multiple wavelengths. This approach enables IPL therapy to treat a larger area of skin in a shorter time.

Mechanism

IPL therapy works with the use of a handheld device to send out multiple wavelengths of pulsating light, which targets and heats up cells in the skin.

Skin cell pigments absorb the light energy released in IPL treatments and convert it into heat. This heating action breaks down the cells, and the body naturally removes the damaged tissue. Also, the pigments use this heat energy to destroy unwanted pigment, such as freckles, as well as hair follicles to prevent hair growth.

Uses

IPL therapy can treat a range of skin conditions, such as acne scars, age spots, spider veins, birthmarks, freckles, hyperpigmentation, melasma, rosacea, scars, sun damage, stretch marks, unwanted hair or tattoos, and wrinkles.

IPL therapy is most effective for those with light to medium skin tones, as it targets the melanin in the skin. IPL can reduce and even permanently remove hair in some cases. IPL therapy can also reduce the visibility of varicose veins, broken blood vessels, dark spots, and discolored skin.

Safety and Risks

On the day of the procedure, you should refrain from wearing perfume, makeup, or other scented goods.

Some people may feel moderate redness or inflammation after the treatment, but more significant side effects, such as bruises, blisters, skin color change, and infection, are possible. As a result, before receiving IPL therapy, it is critical to address any issues and past medical history with a medical practitioner.

Pregnant individuals, people with recurrent skin issues, or patients under pharmacological therapy for other conditions should not schedule IPL therapy. Additionally, groups with light sensitivity, recent tanning appointments, skin cancer, retinoid cream prescriptions, dark skin, significant scarring, or keloid scar tissue must also forgo IPL therapy.

Effectiveness

The efficacy of IPL therapy varies according to the individual and the specific ailment under treatment. After one to three sessions, IPL can lessen symptoms of redness and UV damage by 50 to 75 percent.

IPL is most effective for hair removal on thick, dark hair. However, it may fail in persons with dark complexions or light hair. Acne and acne scarring may necessitate up to six treatments before a patient sees any noticeable results. Modern IPL devices are as successful as laser treatments for some aesthetic treatments.

Expectations and Recovery

The number of treatments required will depend on each person's treatment regimen. For the next four to six hours, patients may suffer some redness, pinching, and swelling, which they can relieve with an anesthetic agent or soothing gel. Swelling can linger for several days, and patients should refrain from applying makeup or lotion for at least 24 hours. Patients should moisturize the treated region twice a day for at least three months after the treatment.