Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPurposeResultsSide EffectsHome vs. DermatologistIPL SessionAffordabilityMaking an Informed Decision
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Purpose
Results
Side Effects
Home vs. Dermatologist
IPL Session
Affordability
Making an Informed Decision
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy uses an intense beam of light to treat conditions that affect skin texture and color. It is also used to repair damaged blood vessels and remove unwanted hair.
IPL therapy can treat many skin and blood vessel problems in areas such as your face, hands, neck, chest, and legs. Many choose IPL because it can provide the desired results with minimal pain and downtime.
However, when compared to otherskin rejuvenationtreatments, IPL may require more sessions to achieve the results you want. Side effects, such as redness or discoloration or swelling, can sometimes extend your recovery time.
Edwin Tan / Getty Images
Purpose of IPL Therapy
IPL therapy gives off less energy than laser treatments. To achieve the desired results, it may require more sessions over a longer time.
For Skin
IPL skin treatment uses many wavelengths to repair unwanted pigment conditions. During treatment, the light waves pass through theepidermis(top layer of skin) to the targeted lesion. The light heats and destroys the pigment cells.
IPL therapy treatments, sometimes called IPL photofacials, provide an average of 70% improvement for skin conditions such as wrinkles, flushing, and pore size.
IPL therapy is advised to treat the following skin conditions:
The benefits of IPL therapy include:
For Eyes
IPL is considered a safe and effective treatment formeibomiangland dysfunction (MGD), a type ofdry eye syndrome.Meibomian glands are the oil glands that line the edge of your upper and lower eyelids near your eyelashes. These glands secretemeibum, the oil that coats your eyes and tear film so your tears do not evaporate too fast.
Many genetic and acquired factors, such as age, environmental stress, medications, and hormonal changes, can cause these glands to become blocked or produce poor-quality oil.
When used to treat MGD, the IPL laser aims to reduce the bacterial load and eyelid inflammation that can contribute to this disease. While the mechanism of IPL on MGD is unclear, research indicates that the IPL liquifies meibum through heating. Other factors, such as the effect of IPL on thrombosis (blockage) of the treated blood vessels andDemodex mites(microscopic mites that can cause MGD), may also be at work.
For Blood Vessels
IPL therapy effectively treats broken capillaries, spider veins, and varicose veins. The treatment delivers concentrated short bursts of light to heat the blood supply in the targeted vessel.
The light heats the red blood cells, causing microscopic clots that interfere with blood circulation. As a result, the vein collapses and shrinks without harming surrounding tissue. The destroyed vein is absorbed into your body.
Depending on the size and appearance of your spider or varicose veins, IPL therapy may require two to six treatments in intervals of four to six weeks for optimal results. While several options exist for treating undesirable veins, IPL therapy is one of the best options for most facial veins.
For Unwanted Hair
IPL therapy for hair removal works best on people with light skin and dark hair because the hair’s melanin (colored pigment) absorbs more light, producing better results. When the energy is absorbed, it is transformed into thermal energy, which causes the hair follicle to die.
IPL therapy for hair removal can be permanent, but it is more common to have to repeat treatments every six months to a year to maintain your results.
IPL vs. Laser TherapyIPL and laser therapy each convert light energy to heat energy to change or damage a targeted area of the skin. However, IPL therapy delivers many wavelengths in each pulse of light, while laser therapy delivers a single wavelength. This means IPL can treat a larger area while laser therapy treatments are highly focused.IPL is weaker and less focused than laser therapy. While IPL therapy can produce noticeable results, lasers produce a more dramatic outcome in a shorter time.
IPL vs. Laser Therapy
IPL and laser therapy each convert light energy to heat energy to change or damage a targeted area of the skin. However, IPL therapy delivers many wavelengths in each pulse of light, while laser therapy delivers a single wavelength. This means IPL can treat a larger area while laser therapy treatments are highly focused.IPL is weaker and less focused than laser therapy. While IPL therapy can produce noticeable results, lasers produce a more dramatic outcome in a shorter time.
IPL and laser therapy each convert light energy to heat energy to change or damage a targeted area of the skin. However, IPL therapy delivers many wavelengths in each pulse of light, while laser therapy delivers a single wavelength. This means IPL can treat a larger area while laser therapy treatments are highly focused.
IPL is weaker and less focused than laser therapy. While IPL therapy can produce noticeable results, lasers produce a more dramatic outcome in a shorter time.
Treatment Results
The duration of your results will depend on the conditions and location being treated, the size of the treated area, and how many areas you desire to change. For optimal results, basic IPL treatments are typically performed in a series of two to six procedures spaced four weeks apart.
IPL treatment results improve over time. You can help maintain your results with dailysun protectionand skin care maintenance. However, IPL treatment is rarely a permanent solution for blemishes. Results can last for about a year, though individual experiences vary. Getting a new series of IPL treatments every year or every other year can help you maintain your results.
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Potential Side Effects
While IPL therapy has potential side effects, most people tolerate this treatment well. You are less likely to have side effects when you receive treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. While rare, complications can occur.
After the First Session
If you had IPL therapy for varicose veins on your legs, you may experience slight bumps on your skin. These typically disappear within a few hours. Your skin may appear reddish, discolored, or bruised. Despite the appearance of your skin, you should be able to return to your normal activities after your IPL session.
Weeks or Months Later
While most physical side effects will subside within 48 hours, it may take several weeks until you notice any significant changes.
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How an IPL Session Works
Before your procedure, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and discuss your goals. They may also conduct a physical exam.
Before You Go
Your healthcare provider will tell you how to prepare for your IPL treatments based on your condition and the treatments to be performed. Before your IPL session, you will likely be advised to follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective treatments:
For two weeks before your IPL therapy, avoid:
For one week before your IPL therapy, avoid:
On the day of your IPL therapy, do not use the following substances before your session:
You may have to take an antiviral medication if you have a history of the herpes virus or cold sores.This will reduce your risk of having an outbreak on the day of your IPL treatment. You should also quit smoking as soon as you plan to have IPL therapy. This will promote better healing.
During Treatment
A typical IPL therapy session takes at least 20 to 30 minutes, though it may last longer depending on the area being treated and the goal of treatment. During treatment, you can expect the following:
Aftercare
Most people require three to five IPL sessions to achieve the desired result. After your initial procedure, you will need periodic follow-up treatments to maintain your results. To avoid surprises, it’s wise to consult with your provider and request a cost estimate before your treatment.
When calculating total costs, be sure to find out if any of the following fees are added to the cost of the treatment:
Since IPL is usually performed as an elective cosmetic treatment, most health insurance plans do not cover it. However, your provider may offer a manageable financing plan to make your treatment more affordable.
You may feel more confident in your choice to undergo IPL therapy if you make an informed decision. One of the most important steps is to consult with a reputable and experienced healthcare provider. Seek out providers who have experience using IPL therapy to treat the areas you want to change.
Before you decide to have IPL therapy, talk to your healthcare provider about your goals. They can help you understand potential risks and benefits to decide whether IPL therapy is right for you.
IPL treatment produces the best results for people who have lighter skin tones. You may want to talk to your healthcare practitioner about other options if you have darker skin as you may not get a good results or you may have side effects as the light reacts with skin pigment.
Having realistic expectations will prevent you from being disappointed. While IPL therapy is considered safe and effective, it can cause discomfort for some people. You should also be prepared to undergo several sessions to achieve your results. Since IPL is not a permanent solution, you will likely need periodic maintenance treatments to maintain your results.
To make an informed decision, you should have answers to all your questions and understand the following considerations:
IPL therapy may not be appropriate for people with the following circumstances:
Summary
IPL therapy targets the lower layer of skin without affecting the top layers. While the effects are not as dramatic as laser treatments that treat both the lower and top layers, IPL therapy needs little downtime.
You can help reduce side effects and achieve proper healing if you understand and follow through on guidelines before and after your IPL therapy. Consulting with an experienced healthcare provider can help you achieve the desired results.
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Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Reid Health.IPL.University of Utah Health.What is IPL and how does it beautify skin?UPMC.Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.Baylor Medicine.Intense pulsed light.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation.Jang, J.H., Lee, K., Nam, S.H.et al.Comparison of clinical outcomes between intense pulsed light therapy using two different filters in meibomian gland dysfunction: prospective randomized study.Sci Rep.2023;(3):6700. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-33526-zChhadva P, Goldhardt R, Galor A.Meibomian gland disease: the role of gland dysfunction in dry eye disease.Ophthalmology. 2017;124(11S):S20-S26. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.05.031UFHealth.Vein therapy.Nemours TeensHealth.Hair removal.DermNet.Intense pulsed light therapy.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — results.American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Intense pulsed light therapy for aging skin.American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Pulsed light therapy for varicose veins.Cohen M, Austin E, Masub N, Kurtti A, George C, Jagdeo J.Home-based devices in dermatology: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Arch Dermatol Res. 2022;314(3):239-246. doi:10.1007/s00403-021-02231-0Hattersly AM, Kiernan M, Goldberg D, et. al.Assessment of adverse events for a home-use intense pulsed light hair removal device using postmarketing surveillance.Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2023;55(4):414-422. doi:10.1002/lsm.23650American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.Laws & regulations of laser operation in the United States.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — preparing for your procedure.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — detailed procedure information.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL Photorejuvenation — aftercare and recovery.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — associated costs.American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing skincare procedure.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — selecting a surgeon.Kaiser Permanente.IPL skin rejuvenation patient information.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Reid Health.IPL.University of Utah Health.What is IPL and how does it beautify skin?UPMC.Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.Baylor Medicine.Intense pulsed light.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation.Jang, J.H., Lee, K., Nam, S.H.et al.Comparison of clinical outcomes between intense pulsed light therapy using two different filters in meibomian gland dysfunction: prospective randomized study.Sci Rep.2023;(3):6700. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-33526-zChhadva P, Goldhardt R, Galor A.Meibomian gland disease: the role of gland dysfunction in dry eye disease.Ophthalmology. 2017;124(11S):S20-S26. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.05.031UFHealth.Vein therapy.Nemours TeensHealth.Hair removal.DermNet.Intense pulsed light therapy.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — results.American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Intense pulsed light therapy for aging skin.American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Pulsed light therapy for varicose veins.Cohen M, Austin E, Masub N, Kurtti A, George C, Jagdeo J.Home-based devices in dermatology: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Arch Dermatol Res. 2022;314(3):239-246. doi:10.1007/s00403-021-02231-0Hattersly AM, Kiernan M, Goldberg D, et. al.Assessment of adverse events for a home-use intense pulsed light hair removal device using postmarketing surveillance.Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2023;55(4):414-422. doi:10.1002/lsm.23650American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.Laws & regulations of laser operation in the United States.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — preparing for your procedure.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — detailed procedure information.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL Photorejuvenation — aftercare and recovery.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — associated costs.American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing skincare procedure.American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — selecting a surgeon.Kaiser Permanente.IPL skin rejuvenation patient information.
Reid Health.IPL.
University of Utah Health.What is IPL and how does it beautify skin?
UPMC.Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.
Baylor Medicine.Intense pulsed light.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation.
Jang, J.H., Lee, K., Nam, S.H.et al.Comparison of clinical outcomes between intense pulsed light therapy using two different filters in meibomian gland dysfunction: prospective randomized study.Sci Rep.2023;(3):6700. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-33526-z
Chhadva P, Goldhardt R, Galor A.Meibomian gland disease: the role of gland dysfunction in dry eye disease.Ophthalmology. 2017;124(11S):S20-S26. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.05.031
UFHealth.Vein therapy.
Nemours TeensHealth.Hair removal.
DermNet.Intense pulsed light therapy.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — results.
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Intense pulsed light therapy for aging skin.
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.Pulsed light therapy for varicose veins.
Cohen M, Austin E, Masub N, Kurtti A, George C, Jagdeo J.Home-based devices in dermatology: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Arch Dermatol Res. 2022;314(3):239-246. doi:10.1007/s00403-021-02231-0
Hattersly AM, Kiernan M, Goldberg D, et. al.Assessment of adverse events for a home-use intense pulsed light hair removal device using postmarketing surveillance.Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2023;55(4):414-422. doi:10.1002/lsm.23650
American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.Laws & regulations of laser operation in the United States.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — preparing for your procedure.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — detailed procedure information.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL Photorejuvenation — aftercare and recovery.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — associated costs.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing skincare procedure.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.IPL photorejuvenation — selecting a surgeon.
Kaiser Permanente.IPL skin rejuvenation patient information.
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