The use of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a form of cosmetic skin treatment that has several applications including lightening dark skin, reducing signs of ageing, enhancing appearance, hiding scars and spider veins and of course, removing unwanted hair. The process of Intense Pulsed Light Hair Removal in Rockville is similar to that of laser therapy, as both deliver wavelengths of light. However, laser therapy employs only a single wavelength of light whereas IPL delivers multiple wavelengths. This enables IPL technology to treat a larger area of skin compared to laser therapy.

If you are unfamiliar with how IPL treatment helps with hair removal, read this blog to find out.

What is IPL?

IPL quite literally means an Intense Pulsed Light. It is a light-based treatment that focuses on a strong pulse of light which is used to stimulate or treat various types of skin issues. People often mistake IPL for laser treatment but the two are quite distinct from each other. However, both IPL and laser therapy work on the same principle when it comes to hair removal. These are instruments that direct light to the hair pigment. The heat emitted at that wavelength ruptures the hair cells, preventing that hair follicle

from growing back.

How does IPL Hair Removal work?

The intense pulsed light which is emitted from a device is absorbed by the hair pigment. The buildup of light energy produces intense light which gets converted into heat. This heat is channeled through the hair, disabling its root cell which prevents the hair from growing back.

What is IPL also used for?

People opt for the IPL treatment for a variety of reasons such as the following:

• Birthmarks
• Acne Scars
• Rosacea (a skin condition which causes redness of the face)
• Melasma (a condition involving brown and grey-brown skin patches)
• Spider Veins
• tretch marks
• Wrinkles
• Sun damaged skin

Risks and Side Effects of IPL

Although IPL is suitable for most people, there are exceptions. People who are on prescribed blood-thinning medicine or are pregnant should avoid IPL.

The following factors make an individual unsuitable for IPL treatment:

• Has active acne
• Are currently on anti-acne drugs like Accutane
• Suffers from a skin resurfacing disorder
• Is susceptible to keloid scarring
• Has severe scarring
• Has recently suffered severe sunburn

Undergoing the IPL procedure also carries certain risks that may occur:

• Skin discoloration
• Swelling
• Pain
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Crusting

How to Prepare for IPL Treatment

The first step that any potential IPL candidate should take is to consult with a dermatologist to educate themselves about the potential risks, benefits and complications associated with the procedure.

The dermatologist would typically advise their patient to avoid the following 2 weeks before the procedure:

• Waxing
• Sunbathing
• Tanning Beds
• Chemical Peels
• Collagen Injections

Once the treatment has concluded, the individual should also avoid using any deodorant, perfume or aftershave on the area that was treated.

What to Expect?

The technician starts the IPL procedure using a handheld device to deliver the light. It is natural to feel a slight pinching sensation during the course of the procedure. It may seem similar to an elastic band snapping on the skin. In many instances, the technician would apply a local anesthetic or a soothing gel on the area being treated. The number of sessions required to get the desired results varies depending on the individual treatment plan. Some treatments can last over several weeks.

How Long Does It Take to Recover

Right after the session, the area where the IPL was applied might appear reddish or pink. This side effect only lasts about 4 to 8 hours. The skin might sting during this time and it may feel like a light sunburn. The IPL candidate should avoid make-up or the use of skin lotions for at least 24 hours after the procedure. They should keep the area moisturized twice a day for a minimum of 3 months.