We are finally enjoying a decent summer with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, which is great for our overall mental and physical health. However, it does mean that our skin has increased UV exposure, no matter how careful we are with the suncream and shades. This can mean that you might start to notice issues such as sun spots, redness, and fine lines.
At our Brighton clinic, we offer IPL skin treatment (aka IPL Photorejuvenation), which is an advanced and non-invasive way to reverse the signs of skin damage and restore a smooth and natural glow.
What is IPL Photorejuvenation?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, a light-based treatment (sometimes called a photofacial) that targets pigmentation, broken capillaries, and redness without damaging the surface of the skin. Unlike regular LED skin therapies, IPL Photorejuvenation uses controlled broad spectrum light in varying wavelengths to deliver tailored results.
This clinically proven state-of-the-art light technology can make a very noticeable difference to issues such as redness caused by broken capillaries and rosacea; sun spots and hyperpigmentation; acne scars, fine lines and an uneven skin tone.
The IPL treatment also stimulates collagen production deep in the skin, and repeated treatments can result in a gradual improvement in skin firmness, texture and elasticity over time.
Who is suitable for IPL treatment?
The treatment is designed for anyone who wants to correct early signs of ageing, previous sun damage, or address a specific condition such as rosacea or freckles. The treatment is quick and non-invasive, and there is minimal downtime involved.
However, if you are planning to have the treatment in summer, there are a few points to bear in mind. It will be necessary to avoid active sun exposure one month before and afterwards, so if you have a holiday booked somewhere sunny, you should schedule the appointment to avoid these time windows.
Likewise, you should avoid the use of tanning beds or fake tans before the treatment, as increased pigmentation can affect the results. You should also avoid having fresh injectable treatments such as Botox and fillers, tattoos or scarring in the treatment area, or using any medications that make you photosensitive.
Making the most of your IPL treatment
Your aesthetician will provide you with aftercare advice that is tailored to your treatment, and to get the best results and avoid complications, be sure to follow it carefully. In the days after the treatment, it’s normal to have skin redness and slight swelling. Any pigmented areas of skin may initially go darker, so be prepared for this and do not pick off scabs and flaking skin.
Once the older skin naturally sheds, the lighter and smoother skin underneath will be revealed. Always apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before going outside, and use gentle cleansers and lukewarm water to wash your face. Do not exfoliate or use peels or retinoid creams for at least a week after the treatment.