What Are the Benefits of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)?

Everyone’s heard that too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—whether from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds—is one of the worst things that can happen to our skin. The UV light significantly increases the risk of skin cancer developing and causes skin cells to break down, resulting in signs of premature aging like wrinkles. But not all forms of light exposure are harmful to the skin. In fact, light-based therapy is one of the most effective ways of creating a more even complexion by reducing irregularities on the skin’s surface. Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments from our St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach based team are a gentler alternative to laser skin resurfacing and can target a variety of common skin-related concerns at the same time.

Read on for some of the main benefits associated with this procedure:

Lightening Unwanted Pigmentation

IPL photo-rejuvenation treatments target melanin and hemoglobin in the skin, making them ideal for correcting uneven pigmentation. The light precisely targets damaged or pigmented skin cells, so the treatment can be beneficial for rosacea (flushed skin on the face), birthmarks, hyperpigmentation (such as sunspots, liver spots, and freckles), melasma, broken blood vessels, spider veins, and discolored skin. Patients love IPL treatments because they improve and blend brown and red discolorations, reducing their need for coverup and giving them the freedom to look their best without makeup. 

Improving Scars and Stretch Marks

IPL can enhance the overall look and feel of the skin by encouraging collagen production to improve skin texture. It also helps to fade discoloration and improve broken blood vessels caused by scars, making it a great treatment for most types of scars and stretch marks. 

Resolve Other Skin Concerns 

In addition to correcting blotches and spots on the skin, IPL can also target dilated pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Easily Managed Recovery

Another advantage of IPL treatments is that they require minimal downtime, and patients will be able to return to their normal activities with very few limitations. Side effects are minor and will resolve within a few weeks at most. 

To learn more about energy-based skin resurfacing options—such as laser or IPL treatments—contact us at Nelson Dermatology. Reach out online by filling out a contact form, or call us at 727-895-8131 to request a consultation.