Both IPL and LED photofacials involve light being absorbed into the skin. The light pulses emitted by the IPL photofacial are more intense than those emitted by LED devices, and this enhanced intensity allows the light pulses of the IPL photofacial to be absorbed more deeply.

The IPL photofacial light is soaked up by the hemoglobin (red blood cells) and melanin (pigmentation) in the skin, intentionally damaging these areas. The damaged melanin breaks up and is absorbed by the skin, decreasing its appearance on the skin’s surface. The damaged hemoglobin stimulates blood flow, causing the melanin to be absorbed more efficiently.

At SkynBar of Atlanta, we have performed thousands of IPL photofacials. During this time, we have identified six important benefits that IPL photofacials provide.

1. Treats sun-damaged skin. The IPL photofacial combats UV damage in two ways. First, it draws out freckles and age spots that have formed deep within the dermis, creating an even, dewy complexion. Second, it generates a significant amount of new collagen, which replaces collagen that have been destroyed by the sun, making the skin stronger and more supple while also lessening wrinkles and fine lines.
2. Takes on stubborn acne. An IPL photofacial kills harmful bacteria and reduces redness and inflammation. With repeated treatments, your skin is encouraged to shed and renew its outer layer, which gradually eliminates scar tissue created by acne.
3. Eliminates visible veins and capillaries. Because intense pulsed light is absorbed very efficiently by red blood cells, the IPL photofacial is one of the best treatments available for visible blood vessel abnormalities. Our clients at SkynBar of Atlanta use the IPL photofacial to dissolve broken capillaries and spider veins for a more even, youthful complexion. This procedure is also ideal for treating conditions that cause diffuse redness, such as rosacea.
4. Prevents premature skin aging. A 10-year study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology showed that having two to three IPL photofacials per year for a decade changes the structure of skin cells, making them behave more like young cells.
5. Pairs well with other non-surgical treatments. The gentle lifting and revitalizing action of the IPL photofacial can be complemented with other non-surgical procedures at SkynBar of Atlanta, especially injectable neurotoxins, and dermal fillers.
6. Offers deep rejuvenation with very little downtime. The IPL photofacial is powerful enough to access the deeper layers of the dermis but gentle enough that it won’t cause excessive swelling, redness, or lasting irritation. The pulses of light emitted during an IPL photofacial are less concentrated than a laser beam, so IPL treatment is much-less risky than laser skin resurfacing. At SkynBar of Atlanta, most clients who have an IPL photofacial can apply makeup immediately after their appointment and return to work within 24 to 48 hours.

At SkynBar of Atlanta, we use IPL photofacials to treat skin blemishes and pigmentation issues, including:

• Sun damage (sunspots)
• Freckles
• Broken capillaries (blood vessels)
• Rosacea
• Hyperpigmentation
• Spider veins
• Fine lines

At SkynBar of Atlanta, we find that most clients get IPL photofacials to treat their face, neck, shoulders, back, and hands – which are frequently exposed body parts. However, IPL photofacials can be performed on any area of the body except the eyelids and the area just above them.

The IPL photofacial takes between 30 minutes and 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated.

Prior to beginning your IPL photofacial, your SkynBar of Atlanta aesthetician will apply a cool gel to your face and supply you with dark glasses to protect your eyes from the light. Once you’ve been prepped, your aesthetician will run a handpiece with a cold smooth surface along your skin as it pulses light.

While some redness and swelling may occur – which should subside within 24 hours – our experience at SkynBar of Atlanta shows that most IPL photofacial clients require little to no downtime. Results are gradual, with improvements to the skin beginning to appear in the days and weeks following treatment.

Generally, an IPL photofacial at SkynBar of Atlanta is more expensive than procedures such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion yet tends to be less expensive than most cosmetic surgeries and laser skin treatments. The overall cost of your treatment will vary widely depending on the severity of the cosmetic issues being addressed, as well as the number of treatments needed to correct them. These factors can be discussed with your SkynBar of Atlanta aesthetician during your initial IPL photofacial consultation.

The IPL photofacial is not ideal for tanned patients and those with naturally dark skin. When the IPL photofacial is applied to darker skin, it can cause skin lightening or hyperpigmentation. If you have tanned skin, dark skin, or melasma, then ask your SkynBar of Atlanta aesthetician about a chemical peel instead of an IPL photofacial. If you’re concerned about the downtime associated with chemical peels, then your aesthetician can use a mild peel formula to ensure rapid, painless healing.

In addition, people with certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, may not be good candidates for the IPL photofacial. Clients with these conditions should choose skin treatments that won’t cause any inflammation, such as our custom facial. If you are pregnant or have a chronic health condition, then the IPL photofacial is not recommended.

Specific side effects include:

• Redness: This is common. It’s a sign of irritation and generally goes away after a few hours.
• Brown spots: If you underwent the procedure to treat dark spots and are suddenly faced with darker ones, don’t worry. This is normal. The dark spots may last for up to a week but will then fade.
• Crusting: Some of the dark spots you’ve treated will grow hard and begin to flake. This is normal and temporary.
• Bruising: This is uncommon and mild when it does occur.

Remember, it will take several weeks (and several treatments) before you start seeing truly significant results.

To have an IPL photofacial at SkynBar of Atlanta, you need to be tan-free. Tans can prevent the machine from accurately detecting the specific blemishes that you want addressed. You will also need to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, anticoagulants, alcohol, and anything else that thins the blood. Additionally, let us know if you are taking antibiotics or any supplements.