How FotoFacial/IPL Treatments Help Patients Achieve Their Goals

Cosmetic concerns and blemishes are troubling for many individuals in the Towson, Maryland area as well as in other parts of the nation. Even if they are purely cosmetic, these conditions or signs of aging may lead many to feel embarrassed and self-conscious and looking for treatment to help them find relief. Thankfully, various minimally-invasive or non-invasive options are available that have helped patients overcome fine lines, wrinkles, persistent red complexion, sun spots, acne scars, large pores and other concerns. One such treatment is intense pulse light treatment, which involves the use of broadband light that differs from the narrowband light used in many laser procedures.

Shortened to IPL, intense pulse light therapies utilize a hand piece that delivers high intensity pulses of the broadband light used in treatment. This procedure is non-ablative, so it does not damage the skin's surface, instead targeting the deeper parts of the skin called the dermis. Depending on the specific needs of the patient, different versions of IPL are available at many clinics. This includes PhotoDerm VL, which targets vascular lesions like spider veins or vascular birthmarks; PhotoDerm PL, which targets pigmented lesions like melasma and age spots; and finally PhotoDerm HR and Epilight treatments, which target unwanted hair. Another benefit of these treatments is that the effect of the intense pulsed light helps to stimulate the production of collagen, which helps to relieve wrinkles.

The procedure comes with a few distinct advantages over other procedures and treatments that may help to accomplish similar goals. The procedure, as mentioned, does not cause damage to the surface of the skin. This differs from dermabrasion and laser resurfacing, which cause damage to the skin's surface. There is also almost no recovery time associated with intense pulse light treatments and the sessions last about 30 minutes to 45 minutes each time. Patients may also apply their makeup before they leave the doctor's office, clinic or medical spa and may return to their work on the same day.

On the flip side, however, there are also some disadvantages of intense pulsed light therapy about which patients should be aware. Because this treatment is non-ablative, several treatments may be required to reach the desired effect of the treatment. In some cases, this may be as many as four to six treatments that are spaced about three weeks apart. Possible side effects associated with FotoFacial/IPL treatments include transient redness, increased pigmentation and decreased pigmentation in the treatment area. To help reduce side effects, patients may be encouraged by the Towson specialist to minimize their sun exposure.

As this is a cosmetic procedure, insurance typically will not cover the cost of treatment. Each session of intense pulsed light therapy may cost between $350 and $600 depending on the part of the body being treated and the clinic at which treatment is sought. Individuals should consult with a Towson specialist to determine the number of treatments that may be necessary as well as the cost of each session for more information.

Learn more about FotoFacial/IPL treatments in Towson, Maryland.

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