Intense pulsed light treatment
The aging process brings up so many things, especially when it comes to our skin.
As I have gotten older I have had some sun spots and sun damage that has started to appear not only on my face but on my arms and legs.
When I am doing any treatments on my skin I always trust the expert advice at the Dermapure Clinics.
I had a consultation with Lead Technician Carrie Price @carrieprice.skin
It was recommended that I had a series of IPL treatments during “IPL season” to treat my sun damage.
One important thing I learned before starting my treatment was that even during the winter months and having stayed out of the sun – I could not use any self tanning products. A very important tip before you book in your treatment AND another friendly reminder – always wear sunscreen, even in the winter months!
I reached out to Carrie to have her answer a few questions about the IPL treatment.
Q- Carrie I love working with you and always trust your recommendations for me. Why was I a good candidate for the IPL treatment?
A – I was excited to treat your skin with an IPL series, you are an ideal candidate! You have fair skin, without sun exposure and you do not suffer from melasma.
Q- Who wouldn’t be a good candidate for IPL?
A – Patients with a darker complexion, melasma or have had recent sun exposure would be safer using other treatment options.
Q- What do you recommend a client doing before booking in an IPL treatment?
A – It’s very important to avoid adding pigment to your skin, this includes; natural sun exposure, tanning beds and self tanner. Also talk to your technician about avoiding retinol pre-treatment.
Q – What is IPL and what does it treat?
A – IPL stands for “Intense Pulsed Light”. It’s used to treat the “dyschromia” of the skin. which is the red and brown discolouration caused by aging and sun exposure. By lightening these pigments the skin looks smoother and healthier, less “splotchy”. IPL is also used to treat redness in the skin caused from rosacea.
Q – Are IPL’s painful ?
A – They can be a little snappy. The treatment can feel warm and the skin may feel sensitive. No pain medication or pain management is needed.
Q – What is the recovery or downtime from IPL treatment and how many treatments do you need?
A – An IPL “lifts” the pigment from the skin. Dark spots will initially darken and they may feel rough. Skin can be pink, warm and swelling may happen.
Q – What is the best time of year to get an IPL treatment done and do you need to be careful in the sun after?
A – I like the term “IPL season”. Treating clients during the winter months is ideal. When we have less sun and less risk of sun exposure.
You may want some social downtime for a few days, but most people resume normal activities after the treatment.
An initial series of 2-4 is recommended with a yearly touch-up.
Also paying attention to not book IPL’s after hot, sunny holidays.
IPL’s clear existing lesions, but do not prevent new ones.
I highly recommend protecting your skin with an SPF after the treatments to prolong your results and to prevent further damage.
If you are looking to book a consultation contact a Dermapure Clinic in your area.
xx
PRO Makeup Artist + Beauty Editor
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