Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatments from Dr. Tansavatdi

If you have age spots, large pores, rosacea, or an uneven skin tone, intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacial therapy is a comfortable, non-invasive treatment that can improve the appearance of your skin. Since many of these imperfections are caused by sun damage, an IPL photofacial treatment is primarily used to rejuvenate skin that has been exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands to give you clear, flawless-looking skin. If you’re in the Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks area and interested in better-looking skin, Dr. Tansavatdi can help.

What are the advantages of IPL?

An IPL photofacial is a non-surgical procedure that has the ability to greatly rejuvenate your skin. Research has proven that when IPL therapy is regularly performed as a maintenance treatment, the benefits may include protection from skin cancer. In addition, IPL photofacial therapy can decrease rosacea, eliminate red spots and vessels, and remove freckles, age spots, and discoloration. Another great benefit to IPL photofacial therapy is that the increased collagen created by IPL makes your pores appear smaller.

How does an IPL photofacial work?

After carefully choosing the area to be treated, Dr. Tansavatdi will use a handheld device to emit intense pulses of visible broad spectrum light. The light energy is absorbed and attracted to cells that store red and brown pigment in the skin. The energy heats your skin using a process called photothermolysis. This stimulates the production of collagen, causes dark spots to get darker and come to the surface of your skin, as well as remove red spots and small vessels from the skin.

Once these spots reach the surface of your skin, they will flake off or be re-absorbed into your body. The result is clearer, more radiant skin.

IPL photofacial treatments have been used in cosmetic surgery for decades. Lumecca IPL is a third generation IPL photofacial device. Because of its enhanced ability to filter wavelengths, it’s more comfortable and much more effective than previous generations of IPL photofacial devices.

How is an IPL photofacial performed?

An IPL photofacial is performed using a handpiece that emits quick flashes of light. In each area being treated, you will see the light and feel a sensation like a rubber band snapping on your skin. We recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever prior to the treatment. Local topical anesthetic may be administered to keep you comfortable, but is rarely necessary.

For 48 hours after your treatment, your skin may feel like it is sunburned. The full results of your treatment should be visible within two to three weeks depending on the location of treatment (i.e., face vs. chest or arms). Generally, patients require 1 to 3 treatments to achieve their aesthetic goals, and after those results, Dr. Tansavatdi recommends maintenance treatments 2 to 4 times a year to keep your skin looking healthy and at its best.

Tansavatdi Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

How long do results from IPL photofacial therapy last?

The results from IPL treatment will be permanent, as long as your skin does not sustain further damage from the sun or tanning beds. Dr. Tansavatdi recommends that patients avoid tanning beds and wear sunscreen when they are outdoors.

In addition, Dr. Tansavatdi recommends maintenance treatment 2 to 4 times a year to combat DNA damages that occur with aging, and to maintain a healthy, clear complexion.

Who is a good candidate for IPL?

If you’re in the Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks area and are interested in IPL photofacial therapy, you may be an ideal candidate. A good candidate is anyone whose skin has been damaged by sun exposure or tanning beds, or those who have developed rosacea or increased visible red vessels on the skin. Candidates must be in good health, willing to wear sunblock, and avoid sun exposure following treatment. Common visible issues that can be treated include:

• Freckles
• Age/sun/liver spots
• Discoloration
• Vascular marks
• Red patches on cheeks or chin (rosacea)
• Tiny red blood vessels around the nose

Can IPL be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely. If you’re in the Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks area and you’re interested in combining an IPL photofacial with another treatment, Dr. Tansavatdi will discuss your aesthetic goals during your consultation and how to best achieve the appearance you desire. Please call (805) 715-4996 or contact us online to schedule a consultation or ask us any questions.

Dr. Tansavatdi| Thousand Oaks plastic Surgeon

IPL Photofacial