Intense Pulsed Light, also known as IPL, Fotofacial or Photofacial, delivers high-intensity pulses of light that penetrate your skin and get rid of brown spots (age spots) caused by sun damage and unwanted spider veins, while stimulating healthy, new collagen.

To maximize effectiveness of your IPL photofacial, there are a few things you should do before and after the procedure. It is extremely important that the area being treated is not tanned or exposed to direct sunlight 2 weeks before or Sun exposure encourages the production of melanin, which can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment by “protecting” the skin by absorbing the light’s energy. Be sure to use SPF even when stepping outside for a brief period. You should also moisturize regularly, and avoid smoking to promote better healing. There are some retinoid antibiotics that may cause skin sensitivity that your doctor may ask you to avoid. Hydration is extremely important for the skin and for recovery.

After treatment, most patients experience a few days of redness (similar to a sunburn), some brown spots may appear darker for a few days and some patients experience scabs or blisters.  It’s important not to pick at or disturb your skin any further. You can apply makeup immediately after IPL treatment if necessary. It is important to protect your skin from the sun using a sunscreen daily. You should use a gentle skin cleanser and moisturizer for about a week, and then you can resume your normal skin care routine.

Results from an IPL photofacial include significantly reduced issues such as brown spots, flushing, or spider veins for a long period of time. However, the procedure does not stop the skin from aging, so it’s possible that new wrinkles or blemishes will appear over time.

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready for beautiful, smooth, and healthy skin, consider an IPL photofacial.  Schedule a consultation with Long Beach’s Laser Care Center to find out if IPL photofacial is right for you.

If you’d like to learn more about our IPL treatments, please fill out the form on this page or call (562) 997-1144.