IPL Photofacial

How it works

A handpiece delivers pulses of light filtered to target pigment and small blood vessels. The light is absorbed and converted into heat, which may make spots darken, then flake off over several days. A cooling gel or contact cooling protects the surface. It is not a laser, and it is less suited to darker skin tones. Results vary by person.

Who it may suit

• Sun spots and scattered freckles
• Mild background redness or small visible vessels
• People with lighter skin tones and no recent tan
• Those who can fit a short series of visits

The treatment day

1. Skin assessment. The doctor checks your skin tone and sun history. Be honest about recent tanning.
2. Test or preparation. Gel is applied and eye protection is placed. A test pulse may be done.
3. Light pulses. You may feel snapping or warmth. Spots may darken soon after.
4. Aftercare advice. Expect flaking in the days that follow. Ask for the guidance in English.

Aftercare

• Avoid direct sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
• Do not scrub flaking spots
• Moisturize gently
• Skip retinoids and strong acids for the period the doctor advises
• Contact the clinic if you see blisters or very dark, spreading patches

Things to know first

• Treated spots can darken for about a week before fading
• Redness, swelling, blistering and pigment change can occur
• Tanned skin and darker skin tones carry higher risk of burns and pigment shifts
• Not advised if you take photosensitizing medicines or in pregnancy
• Melasma can worsen with heat from IPL, so tell the doctor if you have it

Talking through IPL in English

Tell the doctor your skin tone history, how you tan, and when you were last in strong sun. Say if you use self-tanner. List medicines, especially isotretinoin, antibiotics that increase sun sensitivity, and herbal supplements.

Ask whether IPL or a laser fits your spots better, and why. Ask what the treated areas should look like by day, so you can tell normal from not normal. Ask how long you should avoid the sun after the visit.

Photographs help, but the doctor needs to examine your skin. Ask for aftercare notes in English and confirm a way to send photos if something looks wrong after you travel.