A photofacial is a treatment using light energy to improve the overall condition and appearance of the facial skin. Light photons carry energy, and the energy may be absorbed by organic tissue if the tissue is dense enough. Intense pulsed light therapy, or IPL, is a specialized treatment that targets discolorations in the skin. It can also stimulate the production of collagen, the result being smoother facial skin with fewer wrinkles. Our Lafayette clients who come to us with concerns about the appearance of injury scars, discolorations due to acne, and rosacea are thrilled to learn that light energy can be used to improve or correct these problems. It’s important to understand the difference between IPL photorejuvenation and laser therapy, however. We generally prefer IPL over laser treatments when the discolorations that need attention are located below the skin surface.
How IPL Works
The device used in this type of cosmetic treatment is a handheld instrument that produces broad-spectrum light beams. In other words, the light is a mix of different frequencies, and the device can be specifically calibrated to produce a certain mix of wavelengths. The idea here is to target certain tissues while leaving others unaffected.
When properly calibrated, the device will produce beams of light that pass right through the epidermal layer. This layer, assuming the individual doesn’t have extremely dark skin with lots of melanin, is lighter than the targeted tissues. The darker tissues of freckles, acne scars, and other blemishes will absorb the light energy.
These tissues will, therefore, heat up and become damaged. They will eventually be discarded and replaced with healthier tissue. The subdermal layers will also absorb some of the energy, and this shrinks the collagen. The body responds by increasing collagen production.
Advantages to Consider
We usually schedule a series of IPL treatments at our office in Lafayette, but the treatments are simple and convenient. Visual improvements take place in the following months. The resulting smoother skin and diminished visibility of discolorations can last for a long time.
An IPL photofacial rejuvenation treatment doesn’t harm the epidermis. Unlike laser treatments that penetrate and cauterize even the epidermis, IPL treatments target only denser tissue. No abrasive resurfacing is involved, and no harsh chemicals are applied. There is virtually no downtime after IPL treatments in Lafayette.
Get Smoother, Better-Toned Skin
You probably have a lot of questions regarding IPL treatments. Our team of experts at The Aesthetic Medicine & Anti-Aging Clinics of Louisiana is here to answer them. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Lafayette or Baton Rouge!