Updated May 2025
Do you want to turn back the clock on damaged, aging skin? An IPL Photofacial, or photo rejuvenation, is a safe, non-invasive solution that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to rejuvenate the skin. Discover why these treatments are so popular among patients at our Langley med spa.
What Is an IPL Treatment?
Unlike laser therapy, IPL therapy delivers multiple wavelengths of pulsating light to treat a wider area. Icon MaxG™ IPL technology directs intense light pulses into the skin leaving the surface unharmed. Concentrated pigment below the skin’s surface absorbs the heat, is dissolved, and then gradually absorbed, leaving the skin clearer and more evenly colored. The heat energy boosts collagen production as well, for increased firmness over time.
What Is IPL Good for?
IPL Photofacials rejuvenate the skin on the face, chest, hands, and other exposed areas by treating a variety of conditions related to sun damage and natural aging, including:
- Uneven skin tone/texture
- Sunspots, freckles, age spots, and other excess brown pigment
- Redness from broken capillaries and rosacea
- Acne scars/discoloration
- Hyperpigmentation
- Fine lines and wrinkles
During your consultation, we’ll examine your skin, discuss your goals, and recommend a course of action customized to your needs. Our approach may include combining your IPL therapy with other beneficial skin rejuvenation procedures.
IPL Photofacial Pros and Cons
Many patients choose IPL Photofacial skin rejuvenation because it is an all-inclusive treatment that simultaneously addresses many skin concerns. You gain the benefit of appearing younger and more refreshed without investing a lot of time in your treatment and recovery.
More IPL Photofacial pros:
- Minimally invasive, non-abrasive approach—no incisions necessary
- Quick, convenient, and effective—patients see results quickly
- Extremely tolerable—minimal discomfort during and after IPL
- Little to no recovery downtime—you can return to work and apply makeup right away
Some Photofacial IPL cons:
- Not ideal for all skin types—darker skin tones may not achieve optimal results
- Skin sensitivity—you must avoid sun exposure before and after treatment
- Your skin routine may have a hiccup—you must avoid acne creams that contain glycolic acid or Retin-A before and after treatment
- You may need multiple treatments to achieve desired results—plan accordingly for this commitment
Take IPL to the Next Level with ThreeForMe™
While IPL provides excellent results on its own, it is even more effective when combined with the non-ablative Icon 1540 fractional laser. These innovative combination treatments are called ThreeForMe because they address three common skin concerns:
- Spots and patches of excess brown pigment related to sun damage
- Vascular concerns such as broken capillaries, rosacea, and other redness
- Wrinkles and fine lines
Treatments begin with IPL, immediately followed by the 1540 fractional laser in the same session. Little to no downtime is needed.
Does IPL Cause Cancer?
There is no credible evidence that IPL causes cancer when performed by a qualified provider with appropriate device settings. Because IPL is used to treat sun damage—a common cause of skin cancer—people may mistakenly think IPL is part of the problem. The light energy from Photofacial treatments is non-ionizing, which means it does not damage DNA like radiation from the sun, tanning beds, or medical X-rays. In fact, IPL is used during photodynamic therapy to treat precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratoses.
IPL Photofacial Recovery
Good news! IPL recovery and results are achieved quickly. While healing times vary slightly, here’s what you can generally expect:
- Mild, sunburn-like redness immediately following treatment (resolves the same day)
- Freckles and age spots may darken temporarily for a few days before fading
- Skin may feel tight and dry for a few days
- Noticeably smoother, firmer skin and more even skin tone/texture within 7-10 days
How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need?
Typically, broken capillaries can be improved with 1 to 2 treatments each spaced about a month apart. It may take 3 to 5 treatments to correct deeper or darker pigmentation.
Are you ready to unlock a more youthful, radiant version of YOU? View our IPL Photorejuvenation before and after pictures and contact our YES Med Spa team to request a consultation or call today at (604) 888-9378 to schedule an appointment.
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