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(941) 366-8897
2255 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239

IPL Photo Rejuvenation

IPL Photo Rejuvenation in Sarasota, Florida

Also known as a “photo facial”, IPL skin rejuvenation can reduce and remove age spots (sun-induced freckles), benign brown pigmentation, and redness caused by flushing or broken capillaries on the skin’s surface. By selectively treating the collagen and fibroblasts found within the dermis, intense pulse light (IPL) therapy using the advanced Palomar Icon by Cynosure at Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin. This leaves the skin looking healthy, refreshed, and in many cases, younger. Many of these lesions are simply small vessels and capillaries that are not in their correct anatomical site. Our cosmetic laser specialist can easily and effectively remove these unsightly lesions with photo rejuvenation. IPL technology is one of the best solutions available for skin rejuvenation at our Sarasota practice.

IPL Photo Rejuvenation in Sarasota, Florida

Woman smiling on beach

How is IPL Performed?

Photo rejuvenation is a non-invasive procedure. With IPL, Kimberly Dearden, CME, LME utilizes pulses of light strong enough to damage skin lesions and initiates a healing process that will start production of new skin tissues. Typically, cold gel is applied on the skin to help with any discomfort. The eyes are also protected from the intense light. The treatment may only last less than 30 minutes as extended exposure to the laser may cause complications. Patients are able to return to their normal routine after a few hours.

What can I expect during and after IPL?

Treatment can only last for 20 minutes or less depending on the skin condition. 2-3 sessions are required spaced every 3 weeks. The results are gradual and optimal results may be seen after several months. There may be discomfort during treatment and pain may be present but tolerable – similar to a slight sting of a rubber band snap. After treatment, the skin may appear reddish with slight swelling and blotchiness. These normally disappears after a few hours. It is very important to adhere to  post-treatment suggestions when it comes to achieving the best results. 

FAQs About Sarasota, FL, IPL Photo Rejuvenation

Improvements are noticeable even after the initial treatment but optimal results may be evident after several weeks. 

Side effects are mild. Redness, swelling, bruising are normal right after treatment. After a few days, blisters and crusting and skin peeling may be present. The patient must not pick on the skin as it is undergoing a normal process as it heals itself. 

It is recommended for patients who are scheduled for an IPL photo treatment to refrain from tanners and exposure to sun 1 month prior to schedule. There are also medications that must be avoided such as minocycline, tetracycline, doxycycline or Retin-A/Renova a few weeks before schedule. These precautions minimizes and risks of complications and reactions the laser light may cause. To help prevent bruising and excessive swelling, patients may be required to take aspirin and ibuprofen 1 week before treatment.

Although patients will not be as sensitive to sun exposure as one might think after undergoing the IPL, going out under the sun must be a limited activity especially in between treatments. Doing so may significantly affect the outcome and may cause complications. Sunblock must be regularly applied. This also helps in minimizing possible recurring skin issues like sun spots, wrinkles and skin cancer.

A single session can’t last more than 30 minutes as extended exposure to IPL may be risky to the patient. An aggressive approach may bring negative effects instead of correcting skin irregularities. 2-3 sessions are spread in between at least weeks so the resurfacing is gradual and results are also longer term as the skin heals naturally.