Photorejuvenation FAQ

What is PhotoRejuvenation / IPL

IPL, also referred to as photorejuvenation, is a series of gentle treatments which will gradually fade or eliminate benign pigmented spots and vascular lesions while diminishing the size of pores, sun damage and wrinkles in the skin. Consequently, your skin becomes smoother, with a younger appearance.

Who can have it?

Males or females who have broken capillaries, a flushed appearance, brown spots, enlarged pores, mild wrinkling, rosacea, freckles an hyperpigmentation.

What areas can be treated?

The face, chest, neck, upper back, forearms and hands are the most common areas.

How Many Treatments are Needed?

For optimal results, a series of 3 to 5 treatments are recommended. Follow-up treatments may be desired once a year to maintain results.

How do PhotoRejuvenation treatments work?

An intense light is applied in a series of gentle pulses over the treatment area. Without damaging the skin, the light penetrates through the skin and is absorbed by the abnormally dilated vessels or pigmentation. The heat causes damage to the vessel or lesion, and the body begins its natural healing process. The lesion will darken before it flakes off or the body absorbs it. Treatment can be given as frequently as every three weeks.

What are the benefits of PhotoRejuvenation?

• Treatment Improves Sun Spots, Age Spots, Dull Complexions, Uneven Pigmentation, Large Pores, Sun Damaged Skin, and Early Signs of Aging.
• Treatment Improves Red Flushing Skin, Rosacea, and Broken Capillaries.
• Enjoy Smoother Skin with a More Even Tone.
• Minimal Discomfort During Treatment.
• Resume Regular Activities Immediately.

What is treatment like?

Treatment vary from 15 to 45 minutes long depending on the size of the area to be treated. First, the treated area is cleansed and a cool gel is applied. When the pulse of light is delivered, the sensation is similar to a snap of a rubber band. After treatment, the gel is removed, the skin cleansed, and a sunscreen is applied. Pain is minimal; but if necessary, a topical anesthesia can be used for maximum comfort. For sensitive skin, a cool compress is applied following treatment.

Are there any possible side effects?

Side effects are rare. Immediately following treatment, the skin may appear flushed, brown pigmented spots may appear darker, and capillaries may be more visible. In rare instances, temporary swelling and/or blistering can occur.

Does it hurt?

There is a mild stinging sensation but it is very tolerable. Your face will be covered with cold gel which reduces the sensation.

What improvement will I see?

Patients have a high degree of satisfaction with their results. Expect to see a gradual decrease in redness, broken capillaries, flushing, irregular pigmentation, pore size and fine lines. After each treatment, the skin will feel smoother and appear to have a more even tone.

What can I expect after?

These sessions are designed to provide no down time. Your face may appear flushed but this usually fades within a few hours. clients with pigment may notice that their browns appear darker after the treatments. This darkness takes on a "dirty look" until it flakes off in 7-10 days. Makeup can be used right after treatments so you can return to work immediately. sometimes a client can develop"purpura" or a bruise on the face. It does not hurt and will fade in about 10 days. This bruising can be covered with makeup. If you have a lot of colour, browns or reds on cheeks and around eyes you may develop some slight swelling for a few days while the skin is healing.

Who cannot have these treatments?

Some medications and medical conditions can interfere with treatments. A clinician will review your history to assess your suitability. Treatments are not recommended during pregnancy or if expectations are unrealistic. These sessions can not be done on anyone with a tan.

How long does a session take?

Generally a photorejuvenation session for a full face takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Larger areas will take longer.