Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a type of laser treatment that emits broad light wavelengths to target skin concerns.

The energy is absorbed by chromophores (like melanin and haemoglobin), breaking down pigment and coagulating blood vessels. This stimulates healing, promoting collagen production for smoother, more even-toned skin.

IPL can be customised to perform various skin treatments for both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes. At Skn Associate we offer IPL for all-over photo-rejuvenation as well as the treatment of

• skin pigmentation

• sun damage

• broken capillaries

• spider veins

• acne

Our IPL treatments focus on issues and concerns with the skin, so we currently do not offer laser hair removal.

The sensation of IPL feels not unlike a rubber band snapping to the skin, with points of localised heat where the laser is attracted to darker pigments or chromophores in the skin.

The intensity of IPL will vary depending on the type of treatment being done, and the customised settings needed for good results.

Everyone tolerates pain differently. Some people may find this treatment more uncomfortable than others.

Most patients will experience a sunburn like sensation that lasts 2 to 5 hours and is often associated with mild to moderate redness. The treated area is generally sensitive to heat for 2 days following treatment.

After treatment of pigmented lesions the lesion will go darker sometimes almost black, then will fall off within 7 to 28 days (depending on the area of the body) or it will just gradually fade.

After treatment of vascular lesions they will either disappear immediately or appear grey or purplish in colour. Diffuse redness immediately appears a lot redder then gradually lightens within 2-3 weeks. Vascular treatments generally require 3 weekly treatments for best results.

The longevity of IPL results can vary depending on individual skin types and concerns. Some people experience long-lasting outcomes, while others may require touch-ups every 6 to 12 months to maintain results.

We recommended having an initial course of at least 4 treatments (with 4-6 weeks between each session) for best results.

Due to the nature of IPL technology there are certain contraindications that would make this treatment unsafe and/or ineffective.

We do not recommend this treatment if you:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding

• have a recent sunburn (in the treatment area)

• have an active skin infection

• have certain skin allergies

• have used Roaccutane in the last 6 months

• have herpes 1 or 2 (within the treatment area)

• have had unprotected sun exposure or solarium use 4 weeks prior to treatment

• have a history of seizures

• have severe dermatitis or eczema (within the treatment area)

• have very dark skin (Fitzpatrick skin type 5 or more)
  

Prior to your appointment you are required to

• discontinue direct sun exposure 4 weeks prior to your treatment.

• NOT use fake tan 1-2 weeks prior to your treatment.

• Use an SPF daily (30+ or more)

• take antiviral medication* (only if you have a history of coldsores (herpes) close to the area being treated)

*Over-the-counter single dose antiviral tablets are available from your local pharmacy. Topical antiviral creams are also available at pharmacies and some supermarkets. Ask for creams containing either aciclovir, famciclovir, or valaciclovir.