Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment for Radiant Skin

Dr Marc-André Doré

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment is a non-invasive technique that uses pulsating light beams to address various skin conditions and enhance the skin's appearance. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, pulsed light utilizes a broad spectrum of light, making it versatile for treating multiple skin issues. Let's discuss the different conditions that can be treated with IPL.

Adult acne

Resurfacing: Wrinkles and Skin Texture, Scars, and Vascular Lesions (Telangiectasia)

Acne and Acne Scars:

  1. Reduction of active acne: The light pulse treatment emits lights at different wavelengths, which can penetrate the skin to target acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). By destroying these bacteria, it helps reduce inflammation and active acne lesions. Additionally, the treatment helps decrease sebum production, which also helps reduce acne.

  2. Improvement in Acne Scars: IPL stimulates collagen production in the skin, which helps smooth acne scars and improve skin texture. Although results may vary depending on scar severity and skin type, it is often used as part of a combination treatment for acne scars.

Redness and Rosacea:

IPL can reduce diffuse redness, including that caused by rosacea. It targets visible blood vessels beneath the skin's surface, thereby reducing redness and broken capillaries.

Wrinkles and Fine Lines:
While the treatment is not as effective as laser treatments for deep wrinkles, it can improve the overall texture of the skin by stimulating collagen production, which helps to soften fine lines.

Enlarged Pores and Skin Texture:

IPL can help tighten enlarged pores and improve the overall texture of the skin, making it smoother and more even.


1. Enlarged pores: Pore ​​tightening: It can target the sebaceous (sebum-producing) glands under the skin, helping to regulate sebum production. Less excessive sebum production can reduce the dilation of pores, making them less visible.

2. Improved skin texture:

  • Evenness: The treatment is effective in reducing redness, dark spots, and other imperfections that can give the skin an uneven appearance. By evening out the complexion, the skin appears smoother and more radiant.

  • Cellular Regeneration: Pulsed light promotes skin cell regeneration, which helps smooth skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and textural irregularities.

  • Reduction of imperfections: Superficial imperfections like sun spots or small scars may fade with this procedure, contributing to a more even texture.

Skin Revitalization (Photo Rejuvenation)

Pigmented Spots and Hyperpigmentation:

IPL is often used to treat dark spots, age spots, or sunspots, and other types of uneven pigmentation. The light pulses are absorbed by the epidermis and work to break down the spots. Note that results are not instantaneous; the spots may darken immediately after treatment before naturally exfoliating in the days following. Melasma or pigmentation spots cannot be treated during pregnancy.


What to Expect During an IPL Session

  1. Before the session

    Before the session, the skin is cleansed to remove any makeup, skincare products, or dirt residues. A layer of gel is often applied to the treatment area to enhance light conduction and protect your skin.

    The device is then placed on the area to be treated, emitting light pulses. Each pulse can cause a sensation of tingling or warmth, often compared to a rubber band snapping against the skin. The session duration depends on the size of the area being treated, ranging from a few minutes to an hour.


  2. Post-Treatment Care

    After the session, the skin may appear slightly red or swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. A soothing cream or sunscreen is applied to protect your skin. It's advised to avoid direct sun exposure and to use high-protection sunscreen for several weeks after the treatment. This is also why IPL treatments are often avoided during the summer.

  3. Number of Sessions Required

    Results are generally not immediate, and several sessions are often needed to achieve the desired results. The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated and how your skin responds to the treatment. Each session is customized based on your needs and skin type, and regular follow-ups are recommended to maximize your results.

Is IPL Treatment Right for You?

IPL is recommended for individuals in good overall health without medical conditions that could interfere with the treatment, such as active skin diseases or certain dermatological conditions. A consultation with your dermatologist is required before treatment to determine if you're a suitable candidate and to discuss your expectations. This treatment is contraindicated for pregnant individuals. Patients taking Accutane cannot undergo this particular treatment until six months after completing their treatment.

IPL is a versatile and effective method for addressing various skin issues, whether it's reducing pigmented spots, evening out skin tone, treating redness, or improving overall skin texture. Although it often requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, pulsed light offers a non-invasive solution that adapts to a wide range of aesthetic needs. With proper follow-up and post-treatment care, this procedure can significantly contribute to smoother, more radiant, and more even skin.

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