Procedures > Cosmetic Treatments > Intense pulsed light

Intense pulsed light

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) at the Skin Institute NZ

Skin Rejuvenation

Skin Rejuvenation is a treatment used to improve the overall appearance of your complexion using IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device.

IPL skin renewal system is used for the overall improvement of skin appearance. It is intended for selective treatment of a variety of vascular and pigmented skin conditions – including Rosacea, “broken” vessels and sun spots. Treatment sessions are performed with the IPL device to provide selective thermolysis to the targeted areas. This results in heating of the blood within unwanted veins leading to obliteration of the vessel. With pigment, the light “shatters” it into fragments. A treatment session lasts for about 30 minutes with a follow up in 3-6 weeks.
 
Treatment can be uncomfortable, “like being flicked with a rubber band” or “feels like a hot pinch”, however most people can tolerate it. To reduce discomfort a topical anaesthetic cream can be applied 30 minutes before treatment to numb the area (note: cost of cream is extra). Two paracetamol can also be taken one hour before the procedure.
After treatment, improvement in the skin’s overall appearance is very gradual. The results following treatment are not instant, you need to give your body time to respond to treatment. Your body needs time to reabsorb ablated blood vessels and go through its rejuvenating skin cycle.
 
As your skin starts to replenish itself over the next 4-6 weeks you will notice it begins to look a lot fresher with reduction in unsightly vessels, pigmentation and less flushing. Resolution of superficial vessels can take up to 6 weeks.

IPL can also be used for permanent hair reduction.
 

What to expect immediately after treatment:

  • Redness and heat usually appear immediately following treatment. This will subside within a few hours.
  • You may need to apply ice-packs to the treated area immediately and for the rest of the day.
  • Swelling, if it occurs at all, usually happens the following morning, this usually subsides within 1 - 5 days.
  • The colour of the vessel may change to a darker red, which can take up to three weeks to disappear. Others may completely disappear at the time of treatment.
  • There can also be dark, irregular bruising which resolves within 5 - 15 days. The application of Arnica helps promote healing.
  • Areas of pigmentation will initially darken, then lighten as the skin sheds (7 - 14 days).
  • People with dark skin may lose some pigment or have increased pigment in the treated area. This will be temporary but may last several months up to a year.
  • In very rare cases, the treated area may blister or crust. This will usually heal in about 5-10 days without scarring unless rubbed or picked. If blistering does occur, please contact us. We may prescribe an antibiotic ointment.
  • Your skin will be fragile for the first 3 - 4 days.
  • Take special care when cleansing the face during this time. Avoid using facial scrubs, washcloths or buff puffs.

In all cases it is imperative to use broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day to prevent further damage. We have a selection of sunscreen and skin care products that can be purchased from the Skin Institute. Your consulting nurse can give you advice and start you on a suitable skin care regime for your skin type and requirements. People with sun tanned or sun burnt skin cannot be treated for at least a month.


Skin renewal before and after photos>>

Acne Rosacea scarring before and after photos>>

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