Earlier this week, we talked about the benefits of a laser facial. How is a laser facial different from IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment (also known as BroadBand Light treatment)? A laser facial removes the upper surface of the skin, exposing the newer, younger looking skin underneath. IPL/BBL targets the dermal layers underneath the top layer, causing targeted damage which encourages the skin to generate new collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter, firmer, more even looking skin. Since theres no removal of the top skin, the recovery time is much less (or non-existent), and the treatment can be done over a lunch break.
IPL/BBL also has different benefits than a laser facial. While a laser facial improves skin texture, acne scarring, and tightens the skin, an IPL can do the following:
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get rid of spider veins/other visible blood vessels
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remove redness from rosacea
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correct hyperpigmentation or freckles
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correct sun spots or age spots
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improve acne
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lessen the appearance of fine lines
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give more tightness to the skin
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reverse some signs of sun damage
Since IPL treatments involve corrections to the under-layers of skin, the client requires several treatments spaced a few weeks apart to get the full amount of benefit from the treatment. After the treatment, you can return to your normal schedule. Youll need to stay out of the sun for a few days, or wear sunscreen, so you dont alter your results.
IPL/BBL treatments are the least invasive way to correct pigmentation issues, or issues with an uneven complexion caused by acne, rosacea, genetics, or lifestyle. Unlike with a laser facial where you have up to two weeks of recovery, along with visible signs like peeling or redness, an IPL treatment does not require downtime. The only visible signs will be a slight redness, as if you had a slight sunburn. The redness will resolve itself usually within 24 hours.
If you have any questions about IPL/BBL treatments in Northern Virginia or would like to schedule a consultation, please call our offices at (703) 574-2588.