IPL / OPT LASER

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a cosmetic skin treatment that may help reduce the signs of aging, remove unwanted hair, lighten darker patches of skin, and improve the appearance of scars and spider veins.
Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) is an advanced and improved version of Intense Pulse Light (IPL). Our machine is IPL OPT.
IPL OPT works in a similar way to laser therapy. The difference is that where laser therapy delivers a single wavelength of light energy, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths. This means that IPL can treat a larger area of skin in a shorter time than laser therapy.

How does IPL work?  

IPL uses light energy to target accurately and remove pigmented or damaged skin cells or hair follicles. 

Uses

People may choose IPL as a treatment for a range of skin issues. These include:
  • acne scars
  • birthmarks
  • rosacea, a condition that causes redness of the face
  • hyperpigmentation, including liver or age spots and freckles
  • melasma, a condition causing brown or gray-brown skin patches
  • scars
  • spider veins
  • stretch marks
  • sun damaged skin
  • wrinkles
  • hair removal

Safety, risks, and side effects

IPL is safe for most people but is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women and people who are on blood thinners, for example, should avoid IPL.Other factors that make people unsuitable for IPL treatment include:
  • currently or recently taking the acne drug Accutane
  • having active acne
  • suffering from a skin resurfacing disorder
  • being susceptible to keloid scarring
  • having severe scarring
  • having suffered severe sunburn recently
As with any medical procedure, IPL does carry the risk of complications. These include:
  • pain
  • skin discoloration
  • swelling
  • infection
  • bleeding
  • scarring
  • crusting

How effective is it? 

The effectiveness of IPL depends on many things. Everyone responds differently to IPL, and most people will need multiple rounds of the treatment before they start to notice results.

Preparation

To prepare for the procedure, we will usually ask people to avoid the following for 2 weeks:
  • sunbathing and tanning beds
  • waxing
  • chemical peels
  • collagen injections
Immediately before and after therapy, people should also avoid using any perfume or deodorant on the treatment area.