Banish Those Pesky Brown Spots With an IPL Photofacial

Innovations in light technology continue to transform our lives. Thanks to fiber optic cables, we can use light to transmit things at ultra-high speeds. That paved the way for faster internet. Specialized lasers use light to correct vision (LASIK), to kill bacteria, and to cut precisely.

Light-based technology can also help you move toward your cosmetic goals. With intense pulsed light (IPL), you can get a photofacial that helps you clear skin discoloration. 

Michelle Fiore, MD, and certified physician assistant Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C, offer these photofacials right here at Fiore Dermatology. From the comfort of our San Carlos, California, office, you can get access to this leading-edge technology.

How IPL works to transform your skin

When you get a photofacial, our team uses intense pulsed light to encourage transformation in your skin. This works because certain colors of pigment absorb certain wavelengths of light. As they absorb that light, it heats the pigments up. The heat breaks down the targeted cells so your body can gradually clear them away.

During your photofacial, the IPL device we use distributes multiple wavelengths of light. That makes it possible to address multiple skin issues at the same time. If you want to target brown spots and rosacea, for example, an IPL photofacial can do that. 

Specifically, we can use this treatment to target a range of brown spots, including:

• Sun spots
• Age spots
• Liver spots
• Uneven skin tone

At the same time, wavelengths of light can pick up and target red tones. That means the IPL can also address redness and spider veins. 

IPL generally works best for people with lighter skin tones. People with darker skin tones may have a higher risk of pigment changes, so our team will evaluate whether IPL or another treatment is the safest choice for your skin. If you have dark skin, talk with us so we can recommend an alternative treatment.

What to expect with an IPL photofacial

IPL is a noninvasive treatment that typically involves minimal downtime compared with many resurfacing laser procedures. During treatment, you might feel a light snapping or warming sensation. 

Afterward, you may have a slight sunburn sensation for a day or two. That should fade shortly. Because downtime is minimal, photofacials can be a great option to improve your appearance for the holiday season and fit your busy schedule.

For the best results, we typically recommend a series of IPL photofacials. Come see our team and tell us what you’d like to change about your complexion. We can create a treatment plan for you based on your cosmetic goals. 

To get started, book an appointment by calling our office or scheduling your consultation online today.