Intense pulsed lights (IPL)
IPL PHOTOFACIAL
IPL stands for intense pulsed light therapy. Unlike LASER emitting devices, IPL systems use non-coherent light with wavelengths ranging from 400-1200 nm for photo rejuvenation. Between the sun, harsh chemicals, pollution, and aging, our skin can become dull and wrinkly. Thankfully with IPL you don’t have to be stuck with an unsightly aging skin. From age spots to sun damage, IPL can address these issues. IPL is a non-invasive treatment with very little recovery time.
Dye Pulsed Laser (DPL)
DPL is a newer precision skin rejuvenation technology of the conventional IPL but uses a narrower light spectrum. It differs from the traditional Intense Pulse lights (IPL) which is covers a more-broad light wavelength spectrum. DPL can stimulate 100nm narrow-spectrum pulsed light that contains the absorption peaks of melanin and hemoglobin, allowing a more precise concentration of therapeutic energy to treat various skin conditions. DPL treatments are also less painful than the traditional IPL.
BroadBand Light (BBL)
BBL is a form of IPL produced by the company Sciton. While most IPLs deliver light in the 400-1100nm wavelenghts, BBL delivers a broader spectrum ranging from 500-2,000nm.
Skin conditions that can be treated with an IPL include:
- Uneven skin pigmentation (the browns and reds)
- Vascular birthmarks
- Facial redness
- Freckles
- Age spots
- Broken capillaries and spider veins.
- Rosacea
- Sun damage/ sunspots
- Hair removal/ reduction
Are IPL treatments painful?
IPL treatments may have some degree of discomfort but generally tolerable. Some patients have reported it feeling like the sensation of being snapped with a small rubber band. The discomfort will quickly resolve within a few minutes of treatment and the results will be well worth it.
What are the adverse effects of an IPL treatment?
IPL side effects are generally both mild and temporary. You may experience.
- Some redness or erythema
- Mild swelling or edema
- Light bruising
- Some itching
- Skin peeling
- Scabbing
- Burning and scarring has been reported in darker skin types IV.
- Hair loss in the treatment area
- Uneven skin tones if poorly done
How many treatments do I need?
Yes, in most cases you will need more than one treatment to see drastic improvements. Most practitioners recommend between 3 and 5 treatments, though it really depends on the area and type of condition being treated.
Advantages of an IPL treatment over Laser treatment?
IPL can treat a wide range of skin conditions, instead of having to undergo several different treatments (e.g., laser skin tightening, laser resurfacing, and color correction etc.) They are cheaper and have very minimal to no downtime. Treatments can be repeated in a much shorter time usually within 4 weeks.
What does recovery from an IPL treatment look like?
It may feel like you have a sunburn for 4-6 hours after you’re finished. Ice packs or a cool washcloth can help you feel better. Your skin may be red or bruised for a day or two. Some of your brown spots may get darker, but they should peel off within a few weeks.
While you heal:
- Delay wearing makeup if your skin hurts after your treatment.
- Use moisturizing lotion.
- Protect yourself with sunscreen. Make sure it has an SPF of at least 35 and a physical blocker like zinc. Reapply it every 2 hours, even if it’s not sunny outside.
- Wash your face with cleanser for sensitive skin.
ANAL BLEACHING AND INTIMAL LIGHTNING
Intimal hyperpigmentation can be a constant source of dissatisfaction, it may also affect one’s sexual relationship. Genetics, friction, aging, childbirth, rashes and skin infections are some of the factors that may cause intimal hyperpigmentation.
Anal bleaching and intimal lightning is an aesthetic treatment that reduces the pigmentation around the intimate areas.
This treatment can be done using different methods such as Intense Pulsed Lights (IPL), creams such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and some over the counter bleaching agents. The results and potential adverse reactions from these treatments will vary. At Aesthetics and Medical Lasers, we utilize the Intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat the hyperpigmentation.
WHO IS THE A CANDIDATE FOR THIS PROCEDURE?
- People that are unhappy with the pigmentation around in the intimal areas.
- Those without herpes, genital warts, or lupus.
- Discoloration is due to aging.
- People whose self-esteem is affected by intimal pigmentation.
- Anyone seeking to have a more appealing intimal skin color.
The success of your treatment depends on how well you follow pre-treatment guidelines. Here is a list of instructions to follow before and after your treatment.
- Avoid waxing or shaving the treatment area for at least 1 week prior to your procedure.
- Do not use hair removal creams.
- Avoid bleaching creams.
- Make sure that the treatment area is well-hydrated.
- Start using antibacterial lotion one week prior to the treatment.
- Moisturize the treatment area regularly post treatment.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes for 5-7 days following your treatment.
HOW LONG IS THE PROCEDURE?
Anal bleaching and intimal lightning can be performed within half an hour. We typically recommend 4-5 sessions, but this may depend on the level of lighting you want to achieve.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE.
- The treatment area is cleansed off and disinfected with alcohol swabs.
- Beams of intense Pulsed Light is then directed to the treatment area using a hand-held device. These light beams will target the melanin in the skin cells and over time the treatment area will lighten.
- After the procedure a moisturizing cream is applied to the treated area to lessen any burning sensation or discomfort.
- Avoid tight fitting underwear following your procedure for at least five days.
