IPL therapy is commonly associated with some mild skin discomfort and redness following treatment, which usually resolves after a few days. Some people may also experience mild bruising. On rare occasions, IPL can cause blistering, hyperpigmentation or infection of the skin.
Restorative Skin Procedures by Mr Ioannis Goutos
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
At a glance
Treatment time:
15-30 minutes depending on the area and size of skin being treated.
Return to work:
No delay.
Anaesthetic:
None or local anaesthetic cream.
Intense pulsed light treatment (also known as IPL) is a non-surgical procedure that can be used in the treatment of skin marks and blemishes, prominent veins and also for hair removal.
It is similar to laser treatments in that it uses light energy to stimulate skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of common skin complaints; this is known as ‘photorejuvenation’. Intense pulsed light treatments are safe and effective procedures, which are quick to perform and recover from in most suitable individuals.
Mr Ioannis Goutos is a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He will be able to assess your skin and your treatment goals to find the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Mr Goutos specialises in the management of scars and burns, and takes a particular interest in both the physical and psychological factors affecting his patients. He is well suited to consulting and treating a host of cosmetic complaints and is adept at performing a number of surgical and non-surgical procedures, including laser and intense pulsed light treatments.
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Intense pulsed light procedures work by creating a flash of light, which is comprised of different wavelengths in a more scattered pattern than in a laser beam. This means that the light energy emitted penetrates to a variable depth within the skin. The light energy is absorbed by the target component e.g blood vessel, hair follicle, and is then converted to thermal or heat energy. This helps to produce the desired beneficial effect ranging from minimising visible veins, reducing hair or pigmentation leaving the skin appearing clearer and regenerated.
Intense pulsed light treatments can be performed on the face or the body and are effective in reducing the appearance of:
- Dark or pigmented blemishes in the skin, including sun spots, age spots and freckles
- Birthmarks
- Stretch marks
- Acne rosacea
- Prominent veins, including spider veins, varicose veins
Repeated IPL treatments are also effective in hair removal on the face or body.
Intense pulsed light procedures can be done during a clinic appointment. Following appropriate checks and assessment, the area of skin being treated is cleaned and then a special gel is applied to the skin before the IPL can be applied. This should be done by a competent and experienced clinician to ensure good results and minimize any adverse effects. The procedure is often described like a warm rubber band hitting the skin; most patient do not usually require anaesthetic cream before the session. Sometimes cooling packs or specialised devices can be used to soothe the skin. Following your treatment, your doctor will give you post-treatment and skin care advice.
FAQ
We know having medical, surgical or cosmetic treatment can seem daunting and it is natural to have questions. We are here to ensure your comfort and safety at all times. If you are unable to find the answer to your questions below, then please do not hesitate to contact us so we can help.
Although intense pulsed light treatment works in a similar way to lasers, the device itself is not a laser. In IPL, there is a wide array of different light wavelengths produced in a flash-type of pattern, whereas lasers produce more direct beams of more specific wavelengths of light energy. This essentially means that IPL and lasers have slightly different treatment niches and outcomes. You should discuss all available treatments in depth with a qualified specialist prior to receiving any therapies to ensure that you are getting the right procedure for your aesthetic goals.
Depending on what you are having treated, most people have between 1 and 6 IPL procedures to achieve their desired results.
IPL treatment is less suited for individuals with darker skin tones due to the risk of hyperpigmentation following the procedure. IPL therapy is also not as effective in the removal of fairer hairs, and shows the best results in the removal of dark hair. IPL treatments are not best suited to effectively treat all skin complaints so it is important to discuss whether IPL therapy is right for you during an initial consultation, prior to commencing any procedures.
Prices from
Starting from £450
At Goutos London, we aim to deliver a premium service with no compromise on quality in order to deliver the best results possible for your needs.
Related conditions
Whatever your condition, and whatever your health goals are, we will ensure you get a holistic, focused and bespoke service that offers you the safest options for treatment aiming for the best possible outcome.
Scarring
Lines & Wrinkles
Pigmentation
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