Intense Pulse Light Therapy

The intense pulse light (IPL) system uses a well known form of light technology that generates a beam that penetrates the skin layers. The heat generated from the light coagulates the blood inside the vessel causing it to collapse and seal. Over the next few weeks, the vessel will disappear and all the blood will be removed by the body's scavenging cells. The newer light treatments allow the delivery of a precise dosage of energy to each blood vessel without injuring any nearby structures.

Intense pulse light therapy (IPL) is a non-invasive treatment for facial defects such as

- spider veins

- reticular veins

- age spots

- non cancerous skin lesions

- acne scars

- telangiectasias

- freckles

Intense Pulsed Light generates a beam of light directly to the skin; the heat generated from the beam destroys the blood vessels or skin lesion. Over time the skin lesion forms a scab. Telangiectasias and spider veins shrink and disappear over time.

Intense Pulsed Light does penetrate the skin but does not damage the surrounding skin and tissues.

The results of IPL are variable. Not all individuals have a 100% response

The results vary with skin type. In general, individuals with fair skin usually have decent results. On the other hand, individuals with dark skin usually do not have a good response

In general, IPL is more effective than laser when treating deeply located veins. The therapy can be used to treat various skin lesions including spider and reticular veins on the:

- face

- arms

- legs

- back

- thigh

- abdomen

- ankles

One should not undergo IPL therapy if

- One is currently taking Retinoids like Accutane. One must stop these medications at least 4-6 weeks prior to the procedure

- one is prone to keloids or scarring

- one is pregnant or breast feeding

- Has had a recent sun tan. It is recommended that one avoid a sun tan at least 3-4 weeks prior to the procedure

- has had a recent skin infection

- has an acute outbreak of acne

- has dark skin

- Is on blood thinners. These medications have to be stopped a few days prior to the IPL procedure