Intense pulsed light (IPL) or photofacial is an effective cosmetic treatment that helps restore the skin’s youthful appearance without damaging the top layer of skin. IPL is ideal for patients with active lifestyles because the procedure requires no downtime and has a low risk of side effects.
IPL Treatment – Dr. Louis DeJoseph, Atlanta Georgia
IPL can treat:
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Redness caused by Broken Capillaries
- Rosacea
- Brown/Sun Spots
- Sun-Induced Freckles
- Acne Scars
- Large Pores
- Blemishes.
The licensed medical aestheticians at Premier Image Cosmetic & Laser Surgery in Atlanta, GA, each have over 10 years of experience performing customized IPL procedures to help patients rejuvenate their skin and look their best.
An IPL Procedure with Premier Image
A specialist performs an IPL procedure on an outpatient basis. Because there is minimal discomfort associated with the procedure, anesthetic and pain medications are not necessary. The patient rests comfortably in a large, cushioned procedure chair. After the patient is completely relaxed and ready, the procedure begins. The specialist passes a handheld device over areas of the skin requiring treatment. Light is delivered to the deeper parts of the skin. The superficial part of the skin is left untouched. Total procedure time is 30-45 minutes. Several treatments may be required for the patient to see the desired results. Typically, 3-6 treatments should be expected and should be spaced about 3 weeks apart.
IPL Candidates
Patients who would like to improve the appearance of their skin by reversing the effects of aging and/or sun damage may be candidates for an IPL procedure. Candidates are usually patients who have no medical conditions or illnesses that could possibly affect results. Patients who smoke are advised to stop doing so before and after their procedure to see maximum results and prevent complications. Patients who have sensitive skin or skin allergies are encouraged to discuss any concerns and ask questions during an initial consultation with a Premier Image specialist to determine if they are candidates for the procedure.
IPL Recovery
There is no downtime associated with an IPL procedure. Patients may leave Premier Image and return to work and normal activities. The skin may appear pink for a few days after the procedure. This may be easily covered with makeup. If redness occurs, it will quickly subside after being treated with a cold compress. Specialists recommend that patients not expose the treated area to prolonged sunlight for 3-4 weeks after their procedure and use a good moisturizer and protective sunblock.
IPL Results
Patients see an immediate improvement in the appearance of their skin, but the skin will continue to improve over the following weeks and months. Results continue to emerge for up to a year, and the final results are long-lasting. Benefits include an overall improvement in skin health and a rejuvenated, youthful appearance. Follow-up treatments may be performed to prolong results.
An Initial IPL Procedure Consultation with Premier Image
An initial consultation with Premier Image is patient-focused. Your meeting with a licensed medical aesthetician include the following steps:
- A complete medical history, which includes previous cosmetic procedures, is obtained
- A visual and physical examination of the skin is performed, and pictures are taken for comparative purposes
- A conversation regarding aesthetic desires and goals takes place
After the skin care specialist has a strong understanding of exactly what the patient wants to achieve with an IPL procedure, a customized plan is created. The aesthetician carefully explains every detail of the plan so the patient knows exactly what to expect before, during, and after their procedure. Should the patient have any questions or concerns, the specialist patiently listens and then appropriately answers and addresses them one by one. Once completely informed, the final decision is left up to the patient, and the first treatment can be scheduled at that time or after the consultation.
IPL/Photofacial FAQs
During an IPL procedure, high-intensity pulses of broadband light are delivered to aged and sun-damaged areas of the skin. Broadband light is different than narrowband light because it is non-ablative, which means it does not damage the surface of the skin. The light helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, spots, freckles, scars, and blemishes. It also increases collagen production, which is in low supply in aging or sun-damaged skin. Long-term results seen from increased collagen production include improved skin health, texture, and tone. Also, patients’ skin becomes a bit tighter and much softer.
When compared to similar treatment options, IPL has several advantages. The most important of which are the following:
• No skin damage
• No recovery time
• No pain
Because the procedure only takes 30-45 minutes, many patients choose to have it during their lunch break. Others choose to go home so they can relax and enjoy their results.
The overwhelming majority of patients experience no pain or discomfort during the procedure. Patients describe the sensation produced by the laser as that of gentle heat.
There are risks associated with all cosmetic procedures, including noninvasive options like IPL. The risks specific to an IPL procedure will be presented to patients during their initial consultation. Specialists explain all the measures they take to reduce risks to the lowest possible level. The overwhelming majority of patients find the potential benefits of the procedure far outweigh the minimal risks.
An IPL procedure is a great option for improving signs of aging and sun damage. It is a very popular procedure because it does not take long to perform, and there is no downtime. Patients who are interested in the procedure are encouraged to schedule an initial IPL consultation with a Premier Image specialist to determine if the treatment is right for them.
The most qualified medical professionals to perform IPL procedures are licensed, medical aestheticians. Patients who have their procedures performed by less qualified medical personnel run the risk of receiving undesirable results. Premier Image specialists have mastered IPL procedure techniques to help ensure all of their patients receive results they love.
Premier Image specialists ask patients to avoid sun exposure in excess for 3-4 weeks before their procedure. Some patients may be asked to use a special moisturizer for this same amount of time.
Ablative lasers create small wounds to promote natural skin healing. Non-ablative lasers do not damage the skin, and instead, work from the inside out. Skin rawness is commonly associated with ablative lasers, not with non-ablative treatments.
An IPL procedure is completely noninvasive. No incisions are made and no scars should form.
Brown spots that are treated using IPL will darken for 7-10 days following treatment. This can be easily covered with makeup. About 1-2 weeks after treatment, darkened spots rise to the surface of the skin and flake off. They are then no longer visible or significantly improved.
Men regularly undergo IPL treatments. Men who have worked in the sun for extended periods of time love the way their skin looks after the procedure.
The specialists at Premier Image perform various combined procedures. Patients who are interested in a combined procedure will have all of their options explained to them during their initial consultation.
Specialists have a large collection of before-and-after photos. During an initial consultation, the specialist carefully selects photos of patients who had similar concerns to those of the patient considering treatment. Patients find this to be extremely helpful in their decision-making process, as it allows them to know what they will look like after their procedure.
Smoking can negatively affect IPL results. Specialists recommend that patients stop smoking before and after their procedures so they have the opportunity to receive maximum results.
Patients are asked to bring a list of medications and herbal supplements that they are currently taking to their initial consultation. Bring a list of questions and concerns is recommended. Patients who would like to bring photos for their specialist to review may do so.
If you live near Sandy Springs, GA, Premier Image Cosmetic and Laser Surgery offers IPL among its services, and is conveniently located at 6085 Barfield Rd #100 Sandy Springs, GA 30328
How do I schedule my initial consultation?
To schedule your initial IPL procedure consultation with a Premier Image specialist, please contact Premier Image Cosmetic and Laser Surgery in Atlanta, GA at (770) 457-6303.
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