IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) In San Diego, CA
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment uses broad-spectrum light energy to target multiple skin concerns, including age spots, sun damage, redness, and visible blood vessels. At Botoxie in San Diego, this versatile treatment delivers pulses of light that penetrate below the skin’s surface to address pigmentation issues and stimulate collagen production. Converting light energy into heat breaks down excess pigment while promoting skin renewal. IPL can treat the face, neck, chest, hands, and other body areas affected by sun damage or pigmentation concerns.
This treatment suits adults with light to medium skin tones who want to improve their appearance without significant downtime. IPL in San Diego, CA, shows initial results within 1-2 weeks, with brown spots darkening before gradually fading. In most cases, patients require 3-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results, and improvements can last 6-12 months with proper sun protection and skincare. Some patients choose yearly maintenance sessions to preserve results. Ready to address your skin concerns? Schedule your IPL consultation at Botoxie in San Diego today.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment delivers multiple wavelengths of light energy that penetrate the skin at different depths. The light targets melanin (brown pigment) and hemoglobin (red blood vessels), converting to heat that breaks down excess pigmentation and visible vessels. Unlike single-wavelength lasers, IPL’s broad light spectrum allows it to treat multiple skin concerns simultaneously. The heat also stimulates collagen production in deeper skin layers, helping improve overall skin texture and tone without damaging the surface layer.
Pre-Care Instructions
- Take 4 weeks off from sun exposure and tanning before treatment
- Stop using retinoids, glycolic acid, and other exfoliating products 1 week prior
- Discontinue self-tanner 2 weeks before
- No aspirin or blood-thinning supplements 1 week before
- Skip facial waxing or depilatories 1 week before
- Cleanse your skin, removing all makeup and creams
- Inform the provider of medications and skin conditions
Post-Care Instructions
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
- Avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks
- Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water
- No hot showers or excessive heat for 24-48 hours
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
- Don’t use harsh exfoliants or retinoids for 5-7 days
- Keep skin moisturized with approved products
- Do not pick at darkened spots
- Avoid makeup for 24 hours
- Use ice packs if needed for swelling
- Follow the specific aftercare timeline provided by the specialist
- Schedule follow-up treatments as recommended
Benefits of IPL
- Reduces sun damage and age spots
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Minimizes facial redness and rosacea
- Reduces the appearance of visible blood vessels
- It helps control active acne
- Stimulates collagen production
- Minimal downtime
- Treats multiple concerns simultaneously
- Safe for most body areas
- Customizable treatment settings
FAQ's
Who is a good candidate?
IPL treatments work best for light to medium skin tones looking to address sun damage, age spots, or redness. For darker skin tones, they are not recommended due to pigmentation risks. Those who are pregnant, have active infections, or have certain skin conditions are not suitable candidates.
When will I see the results?
With proper sun protection and skincare, results typically last 6-12 months. New sun damage can create new pigmentation issues. Many patients schedule annual maintenance treatments to maintain results.
Is there any downtime or side effects?
Minimal downtime with mild redness and swelling for 24-48 hours. Pigmented spots may darken and flake off over 5-7 days. Rare side effects can include blistering or temporary changes in skin color, which typically resolve with proper care.
What should I do before and after this treatment?
Before: Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4 weeks. Stop retinoids and skin-sensitizing products 1 week before. After: Apply SPF 30+ daily, avoid sun exposure, and use gentle skincare. Do not take hot showers or strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours.
What can I expect during this treatment?
Treatment takes 20-45 minutes, depending on the area. You’ll wear protective eyewear while the provider applies cooling gel and guides the IPL device across your skin. Most patients describe the sensation as mild rubber band snaps. Cooling features help maintain comfort during treatment.
Feel free to reach out and ask us anything!
