IPL Photofacial (Brown Spots)

Sunlight, environmental factors, and the natural passage of time all contribute to the development of dark spots, skin pigmentation and freckles. The face, hands and upper chest will be the first areas affected as they receive more sun exposure than other parts of the body. Sunlight causes an inflammatory reaction that stimulates the production of pigment by melanocytes in the skin. Increased skin pigmentation can also occur due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or by taking birth control medication.

Intense pulsed light, (IPL), has been proven highly effective in treating these areas of irregular or increased pigmentation. The device delivers pulses of light through a computer controlled hand piece. That technology creates selective wavelengths of light that are preferentially absorbed by the pigmented areas. The skin pigmentation will gradually fade and slowly disappear. Dark spots may appear darker as the body reacts to clear the pigment or in other cases it can form a type of crust that will flake off like a scab over 7-8 days. IPL treatments, (and all laser treatments), are performed by our registered nurses. The treatments have the added benefit of activating cells in the skin called fibroblasts which stimulate collagen remodeling and new collagen production. This helps rejuvenate the skin, improving its texture and producing a more youthful, hydrated appearance.

Treating the entire face will typically take 20-30 minutes. Once the treatment session is over, you can return to your daily routine. There may be slight redness for 2-3 days. For the average patient, 4-5 sessions are recommended. Treatments are usually spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Most patients report 70% greater improvement after finishing their course of treatment. Because sun exposure is such a major contributor to the problem, we recommend avoidance of the sun as well as tanning beds during the course of treatment and after. Because IPL wavelengths target darker areas, you should also avoid self-tanning products during treatment as well. Combining these IPL treatments with prescription strength skin lightening products will produce even greater results. After improvement or elimination of most of these areas of pigmentation, our esthetician can recommend sunscreens and skin care products to protect your great results.

Contact our Plastic Surgery Office to Discuss IPL Photofacial Treatment

If you think intense pulsed light therapy is right for you, contact Dr. Berris to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Sacramento practice can’t wait to hear from you.