Age spots, liver spots and darkened freckles are discolorations caused by dense tissues beneath the skin. The dark color shows through because melanin is concentrated in these tissues or the subdermal material is dark to begin with. Photorejuvenation using intense pulsed light treatment is an effective, non-invasive method for reducing the appearance of these annoying spots. We are often asked about laser treatments, and some of our clients tell us that they’ve heard about IPL treatment but don’t know if it’s the same thing as laser therapy.
IPL treatment is not really laser therapy at all. A laser beam consists of highly concentrated light waves of a single frequency. On the other hand, IPL is broadband-frequency light, and it’s nowhere near as aggressive as a laser. It’s a mild treatment that works well to eliminate age spots and other minor discolorations in the lower layers of the skin.
What to Expect During Treatment
The instrument used during treatment is a sort of flash lamp device that is placed right next to the skin. The lamp is programmed to deliver only certain frequencies of light energy. These light waves pass right through the epidermis and are absorbed by denser material, particularly tissue that has a high concentration of melanin.
The melanin absorbs the light energy and heats up. This destroys the darkened cells but doesn’t damage the surrounding tissue. The body flushes the dead tissue with other waste. A typical IPL treatment session takes only about 20-30 minutes on the face.
IPL treatment should cause little to no discomfort. In fact, most clients describe it as nothing more than the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin. For best results, you will likely need multiple treatment sessions spaced a few weeks apart.
After Treatment
Age spots, liver spots and darkened freckles begin to disappear after several treatment sessions. A bonus of IPL is that the body recognizes the therapy and will stimulate healthy replacement tissue growth. Collagen production may increase as well.
Because IPL treatment is so safe, it is suitable for many skin tones and types. After a few treatments, you should notice smoother, more even-toned skin. Best of all, those annoying age spots will finally disappear.
Advantages of IPL Treatment
The treatment is performed without the need for surgery or skin ablation, removal of the epidermis or the introduction of foreign chemicals. Because the light frequencies used produce only energy that is absorbed by the deeper tissues, the epidermis doesn’t heat up and become damaged as it would in direct sunlight. In other words, there is virtually no chance of sunburn symptoms.
The results are long-lasting, but clients should schedule repeat treatments should the melanin concentration begin to rise in the areas where age spots are present.
Get Rid of Age Spots Today
This is a very gentle treatment that is suitable for almost all skin types and skin textures. The trained specialists at Ovation Med Spa offer IPL treatment to clients in the Houston area looking to improve the overall health of their skin. Contact us today to learn more about how IPL can help you.