IPL Skin Rejuvenation Pigmentation Treatment

IPL is very successful treatment and when performed by qualified and experienced technicians like the staff at O'Hara Skin & Body Clinic, it is a safe procedure. We use state-of-the-art equipment, have received qualifications from the Australasian Academy of Dermal Science, and always perform in-depth consultations and test patches before commencing any treatment. There are restrictions on who can receive IPL treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are unsuitable for IPL and many medications may be contraindicated. Photosensitizing medications create a risk of burns. It is important that you be honest when filling out consultation forms so we can perform safe and effective treatments. Dark skin colours may be difficult to treat, so your therapist may recommend an alternative treatment if IPL is not the most appropriate treatment for you.

When you have your treatment, it will begin with us cleansing your skin to ensure it is free from makeup, dirt, and sunscreen/moisturiser. We will give you specially designed goggles to wear during the treatment, and these goggles are made specifically for the wavelengths of light used with IPL. A cooling, conductive gel will be applied to your skin. Light is applied by using a sapphire crystal in a handpiece. The light will be a short bright flash and create a sensation many people describe as a flicking of an elastic band. Your therapist will ask you throughout the treatment if you are comfortable. The gel will be removed and we will apply sunscreen to your skin.

After your treatment, you may be slightly flushed and the treated area may feel slightly warm. Many clients feel nothing following the procedure. The treated pigmentation often becomes darker; this happens because the excess melanin has absorbed the light and is now making its way to the surface of the skin. The pigment can sometimes go so dark it appears black. The pigmented cells will move towards the surface of the skin and slough off within 7-14 days or will gradually fade., leaving a much lighter and smaller pigmented lesion or it may no longer be visible.

Yes, before IPL, it is extremely important to avoid unprotected sun exposure or solarium use for at least 4 weeks before your treatment. Once you commence treatment, you must avoid unprotected sun exposure between treatments. Your therapist will prescribe you the necessary home care products to ensure your skin is protected and you will achieve the desired results. You may be required to stop particular skin products or medications before commencing treatment and if you have had recent botox or fillers in the treatment area, we advise that there be a 4-week interval before having IPL. Please ensure that the treatment area is completely free of artificial tan at the time of treatment.

After IPL, avoiding excessive heat in the treatment area is best. Avoid a hot, sweaty workout or hot shower/bath for 12 hours post-treatment. Never pick or scratch the area. Use the sun protection prescribed by your therapist every day.