What it is
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is broad-spectrum light filtered to wavelengths that are preferentially absorbed by melanin (brown spots) and hemoglobin (vessels). Unlike a laser, IPL covers a range of wavelengths in a single pulse, treating multiple targets simultaneously.
How we approach it
IPL suits patients with diffuse photodamage who want to address several issues — brown spots, redness, capillaries — in one device. The clinician evaluates Fitzpatrick type, current tan status, melasma history, and medication list before treatment.
Most plans run three to five sessions spaced four weeks apart, with periodic maintenance once or twice a year.
For darker skin types, melasma history, or patients on photosensitizing medication, we recommend alternative protocols — vascular laser, gentler chemical peels, or topical pigment protocols.
What to expect
The session feels like brief warm snaps. Mild redness for several hours is common. Treated brown spots darken noticeably over the first 24–48 hours (sometimes described as “coffee-ground”) and shed over 5–10 days. Vessels often fade more gradually over 2–4 weeks.
Sun avoidance is mandatory: two weeks before treatment, four weeks after. Daily SPF 50+ is non-negotiable across the series.
Candidacy
Best for fair-to-medium skin patients with diffuse brown spots, redness, and capillaries who can stay out of the sun across the series. Not appropriate during active tan, for darker Fitzpatrick types without specialist evaluation, for melasma, during pregnancy, or on photosensitizing medications.