Who is an IPL photofacial for?

If you've spent a significant amount of time in the sun, you might be starting to notice the unfortunate signs of sun damage.
After years of exposure many of us have freckles, broken capillaries, ruddy complexion, and hyper-pigmentation (dark spots/age spots) on the face and body. IPL is very effective at lifting pigment of any kind but it is also ideal for those suffering from rosacea, active acne or scarring, and large pores. 
IPL photofacials are not effective for darker skin tones or deeply tanned skin, as the IPL wavelengths cannot differentiate between the age spots/pigmentation and the rest of the skin around it.
If you’re using retinoids, doxycycline, or other topical medications, they will have to be stopped for one week prior to your IPL.
IPL is also not recommend for pigmentation caused by melasma. See our Melasma Protocol Here.


What is the Process?

IPL treatments generally take about 45 minutes. Using a handheld device pulses of intense light penetrate the layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and increase cell turnover dramatically.
Highline Aesthetics is one of the few practices in Colorado to offer Alma’s In-Motion technology. Our handheld device will deliver powerful IPL pulses without the 'rubber band pop' or ‘sting’ of competitors' more traditional IPL machines.. 
During the treatment your provider will customize settings to suit your specific needs.


How does it Work?

Melanin rich cells absorb energy put out by the IPL and are broken apart. The body then absorbs the pigmented cells and the darkness becomes less and less visible. With facial surface veins, the energy is absorbed by the dark blood, heating the vein. This heating causes the vein wall to collapse and close off the vein. The body then scavenges the vein and disposes of the blood. Secondarily, the IPL energy penetrates the epidermis layer of the skin (the outer layer) and gently heats the dermis, the skin’s second layer. When the body senses this heating in the dermis it responds as if it has been wounded by producing new collagen. Since collagen provides the skin’s underlying support structure, this firms your skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.


How long do IPL results last?

Most patients see visible results after their first session, but the experts at Highline Aesthetics generally recommend 3 IPL treatments scheduled about four weeks apart to get maximum results. IPL results can typically be enjoyed for years if patients take good care of their skin and keep it protected from the sun. An IPL treatment every 6 – 12 months as part of your skin care regimen can also boost collagen production, which is another anti-aging agent for both men and women. Intense pulsed light therapy is a simple treatment that gives patients dramatic results.


What can I expect after my IPL?

Immediately after the treatment you can expect general sensitivity, minor acute puffiness, the feeling of a light sunburn, and for existing redness to appear more intense. These effects will begin to dissipate after 24 hours. You may also notice your discoloration and sun spots have become darker or more noticeable, and breakouts or blemishes may begin to surface. This is a good sign that the treatment is working! This pigment will flake/dust away as the skin begins to heal from the inside out. Inflamed acne, broken capillaries, and active rosacea will slowly be reduced over the following weeks. Visible healing takes place between 1 and 2 weeks while full healing is still occurring up to 10 weeks.   



After your IPL treatment....

- Wear sunscreen daily with at least 30 SPF and reapply
- Keep your skin moisturized at all times
- Use a gentle cleanser for 7-10 days 
- Avoid the use of exfoliating products, retinoids, and vitamin C products for 24 hrs after your treatment as they could create additional irritation.
- Avoid makeup for 24 hours after treatment
- No strenuous exercise for 48 hours, as overheating the skin can affect the results
- No hot baths, hot showers, hot tubs, hot yoga, or saunas for 48 hours -- warm showers are fine
- Do not expose your skin to direct sunlight for a minimum of 5 days


Need to knows....

Your skin may be irritated or red and feel as though you have mild sunburn. This is a normal occurrence and you may apply cool, not cold compresses to the treatment site for no longer than 20-minute intervals..
After 24 hrs you may resume your prescribed skin care regimen.
Flaking and crusting may occur. Do not attempt to exfoliate or remove any crusting. Do not pick or abrade the area. 
If you experience any open wounds contact our office immediately.
Maintain hydration. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, caffeine-free and sodium-free beverages and keep skin well hydrated with moisturizer.
Follow the directions you are given for your skin condition and goals.
Proper skin care is essential to support the effects of your IPL treatment!
Good sun protection is essential following treatment. If you are outdoors apply a minimum SPF 30 and wear sun protective clothing and headwear.
Following IPL therapy your skin is highly susceptible to sunburn or the formation of irregular, darkened pigmentation. Therefore, sun protection is required for life to maintain the results you have achieved.
Follow-up as directed.
Your treatment may require several treatments to achieve optimal results. Results may not be visible after each treatment but may develop gradually in the weeks that follow. It is essential that your progress is monitored throughout your treatment cycle.
Keep your appointments as directed.