Skin treatment using pulsed light or IPL (intense pulsed light) provides a response to different skin needs. Although it is often referred to as a laser, it is not really a laser in the strictest sense of the word.
The main advantage of this device is its great versatility. With it, we can attenuate or eliminate some types of spots, vascular lesions and even stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, improving the texture and luminosity of the skin.
What are the advantages of IPL?
Many dermatologists consider IPL to be the foundation of any skin treatment intended to improve the health and appearance of the skin. The improvement of skin texture and the removal of blemishes and vascular lesions make this device a useful tool for most skin types.
A well-indicated IPL performed with parameters that are appropriate for the patient (sufficiently powerful to achieve evident results and sufficiently conservative for the procedure to be safe) are the key to success. For this, it is essential that the procedure is performed by a dermatologist, who is the most qualified professional to perform it.
In addition, it is a treatment that can be enhanced with the combination of cosmetics that include active ingredients such as topical retinoids or acids, or procedures such as peelings or botulinum toxin.
What are the disadvantages of IPL
Although the procedure is generally well tolerated, it can be uncomfortable and even painful in some patients. For this, and in selected cases, we can use topical anaesthesia (although this is not usually recommended) and even local cold.
In addition, patients with many spots or a lot of vascular damage may experience swelling or intense darkening of the spots during the following days. And although during these days the lesions can usually be made up, they may be evident in some patients, especially during the first sessions.
Finally, it is a procedure that, in order to be carried out effectively and safely, needs to be performed by a dermatologist trained and experienced in its management, and sometimes access to a dermatologist can be delayed.
What should I expect from IPL treatment?
IPL is one of the best dermatological treatments for improving the overall appearance and health of the skin, although it must be individualised in each case (ruling out lesions that should not be subjected to the procedure, or very high phototypes that may hyperpigment, for example). In addition, we must consider a maintenance treatment over time so that the effects persist over the years.
