Procedures/Non-Surgical Procedures/LimeLight IPL
LimeLight IPL
What Is IPL?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also known as photofacial or photorejuvenation, is a light-based treatment that can improve skin tone and uneven texture caused by aging and sun damage. Our team utilizes the advanced Cutera® LimeLight device for IPL treatments. With this innovative system, patients can treat common skin concerns such as brown spots, telangiectasis (spider veins), and rosacea. IPL therapy can be highly beneficial for the right candidates, but those who have significant sun exposure may need to wait to undergo treatment or pursue another non-surgical solution.
What Does the IPL Treatment Involve?
To begin your IPL treatment, an ultrasound gel will be applied to the target area, allowing the handheld LimeLight device to glide smoothly over your skin. A topical numbing cream is not required as pain is typically minimal. Patients often compare the sensation of IPL treatment to that of a rubber band snap. The LimeLight device can help cool the area for improved comfort. Throughout the IPL procedure, multiple wavelengths are emitted, and as this light-based energy is absorbed by the skin, blemishes are targeted and the damaged cells are destroyed.
What Can I Expect After My IPL Treatment?
After your IPL treatment, you can expect your skin to darken and become red. You may notice tiny dark spots on your skin, often called “coffee grounds,” which are caused by brown spots being “blasted.” To help your skin heal and avoid scarring, you should let these spots heal on their own and not pick them off. To reduce possible inflammation, you can ice the treated area after your procedure. While not every patient may experience swelling, it is a normal side effect, especially for those with more severe skin damage, and it usually resolves in 24-48 hours.
What Aftercare Is Needed Following IPL Therapy?
To help your skin recover and get the best results from your IPL treatment, you will need to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat when outside, and avoid the sun as much as possible. (Normal sun exposure is okay.) You should use a gentle cleanser during your recovery and avoid retinol and any AHA-BHA acids for one week. Hydrating creams and soothing gels/creams may be recommended to help restore the skin barrier as well.
How Often Should I Get IPL Treatments?
A series of three IPL treatments, spaced four weeks apart, is an ideal schedule to begin with. This series can help many patients achieve optimal results, though improvement in skin concerns can often be seen after just one IPL treatment.
How Much Does IPL Therapy Cost?
The cost of IPL therapy will vary based on the type and severity of skin concerns you want to address. However, the average amount you can expect to pay for IPL is approximately $700 to $1,200. Our team will provide you with a cost quote prior to your LimeLight treatment to help you understand what to expect.
To learn if LimeLight IPL therapy is right for you, please contact our office to schedule your consultation.
Medical References for IPL Therapy
National Library of Medicine: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
