Medical Grade IPL - IPL Rejuvenation

As we get older, and especially following extensive sun exposure, our skin may begin to show signs of ageing including brown pigmented sun spots, diffuse redness and visible capillaries, thinner and less elastic skin and more noticeable lines.

The sun is responsible for much of the damage to our skin as we age. Other factors include our genetic predisposition, chemicals that sensitise the skin such as those found in some perfumes and hormonal changes.

We use a treatment based on the theory of “selective thermolysis”. Melanin and haemoglobin are the target elements. Melanin is the pigment in the body that commonly causes blemishes to be brown or black. Haemoglobin is the protein that is found in blood cells that gives vascular blemishes their red or blue colour. A Laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) device is used to produce intense light of a specific (or narrow range) wavelength. This wavelength selectively targets the melanin and haemoglobin and fades the pigmented and vascular blemishes while minimising damage to the adjacent tissue.

In addition, the wavelength of light we use stimulates the fibrocyte cells in the skin to produce more collagen. This in turn helps to improve the texture of the skin, giving a healthier look and softening fine lines.

Superficial pigmented lesions such as sun spots or freckles respond well to light treatment. Deeper pigmented lesions or lesions associated with hormonal changes respond less well. It is not uncommon for hormonal related lesions to become darker with treatment.

As a general rule, moles should not be treated. Malignant Melanoma is a dangerous cancer of the skin and often arises from moles. It is imperative that all pigmented lesions be checked by a doctor to ensure they do not have the potential to become malignant before treating. Your doctor may elect to treat the lesion or recommend the lesion be monitored, biopsied or excised or refer you to a specialist for management.

Most patients don’t experience the treatment as painful. It has been described as being similar to having a rubber band snapped against the skin.

The final result and the number of treatments depends on a number of factors including the types and locations of the lesions, the skin type and the degree of sun tanning.

Common side effects include temporary darkening of the lesion, redness, swelling and discomfort. These reactions are temporary and usually resolve within a few hours. A light peeling or scabbing may occur within a few days following treatment. This is expected and will heal over 1 to 2 weeks.

If necessary, shave the area to be treated. Arrive early for your appointment and remove any make up, sunscreen or moisturiser containing sunscreen.

Sun light, solariums and tanned skin increase the risk of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Ideally the skin should be as pale as possible. So, avoid the sun, solariums and “fake tan” products.

We recommend that you use a broad spectrum, high SPF sun screen. You should also avoid the sun and solariums for at least 1 month following treatment. The longer this period is, the better the result.

Treatment should be avoided, or discussed in detail with your doctor if you have a dark skin type, are prone to increased pigmentation, have a deep sun tan, or if you intend to spend time in the sun or solarium soon after treatment.

Depending on the colour, permanent make up or tattoo’s may absorb the light and increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

Costs are based on the area being treated and the desired outcome, and is difficult to provide an accurate quote unless we actually see the area. Therefore, we suggest you book in for a free consultation with one of our consultants who can explain the procedure in more detail and provide you with a price for a treatment plan.