What is IPL Rejuvenation?

MECHANISM How Does IPL Rejuvenation Work?

IPL device delivers broad spectrum Intense Pulsed Light energy that is absorbed by specific targets in the skin – called chromophores – creating a controlled photothermal response in the epidermis and upper dermis that breaks down pigmentation, reduces redness and visible capillaries, kills acne-causing bacteria, and stimulates collagen production for overall skin rejuvenation.

IPL Action for Pigmentation & Sun Damage

• Light energy is absorbed by melanin in pigmented spots
• Light energy is converted to heat which breaks down and immediately darkens pigmented areas
• Darker pigment rises to the skin surface and sheds progressively, revealing a more even skin tone and colour (image below).

IPL Action for Redness & Vascular Lesions

• Light energy is absorbed by haemoglobin in superficial capillaries
• Light energy is converted to heat which heats up and breaks down dilated vessels 
• Vessels that cause diffuse redness or capillaries are progressively eliminated by skin lymphatic system, revealing a more even skin tone and colour (image below).

IPL Action for Acne

• Light energy is absorbed by porphyrins – pigments produced by acnes bacteria 
• Light energy is converted to chemical reaction which selectively kills acne bacteria
• Acne bacteria numbers are significantly reduced which decreases breakouts and inflammation, revealing clearer skin complexion.

IPL Action for Rejuvenation – using IPL Genesis Mode

• Light energy is absorbed by haemoglobin in blood vessels
• Light energy is converted to heat with the thermal effect spreading across the superficial dermis
• Controlled dermal heating is induced with increased collagen production in the upper skin layers, revealing more rejuvenated and smoother skin.

RESULTS What Results Can I Expect from IPL Rejuvenation?

⚠️Results are progressive, cumulative and individual – outcomes vary depending on skin condition, age, lifestyle, skincare routine and number of treatments received.

IPL delivers progressive skin rejuvenation results across the face and body, including:

• Pigmentation & Sun Damage: reduced sunspots, age spots, freckles, uneven skin colour, sun-damage, neck sun-damage called Poikiloderma
• Redness & Vascular Lesions: reduced diffuse redness, skin flushing, visible dilated capillaries and vascular lesions such as cherry angiomas or spider angiomas
• Acne: reduced active breakouts and pimples and decreased skin inflammation and redness
• Skin Rejuvenation: improved skin colour, tone, texture and radiance, with progressive collagen stimulation contributing to smoother skin over time

When Can I Expect to See Results from IPL?

Results from IPL for pigmentation typically appear in 5-8 days on the face, and 8-14 days on the body following treatment

Results from IPL for redness, acne and skin rejuvenation typically starts to appear in 1-3 weeks following treatment

How Long Will the Results from IPL Rejuvenation Last?

Longevity of results varies depending on the concern treated, skin type, age, lifestyle and sun exposure, and whether treatment has been performed as a course.

Discrete pigmented lesions such as sunspots and freckles can be long-lasting once cleared with strict sun protection, however diffuse pigmentation, redness and acne-related concerns are prone to recurrence and require ongoing maintenance.

Vascular and rejuvenation results are generally maintained for 6-12 months, with regular maintenance treatments essential to sustain and build on results long term.

⚠️Skin continues to age every day – periodic maintenance treatments, daily SPF 50+, prescribed skincare and a healthy lifestyle all work together to sustain, protect and build on your results long term.

NORMAL RESPONSE What Does IPL Treatment Feel Like? Is IPL Painful?

During treatment, it is normal to experience heat sensation – likened to a brief flick of a rubber band – with minimal discomfort with each light pulse. Discomfort levels vary between individuals and treatment areas, with higher sensitivity over thinner skin, bony areas, or areas with more active pigmentation or redness.

⚠️Topical numbing cream is not used prior to IPL – client real-time comfort feedback during treatment is an important safety guide that helps your clinician optimise settings and protect your skin.

How Does Skin Feel After IPL Rejuvenation?

Following treatment, mild to moderate redness, sensitivity, itching, swelling, sunburn sensation, skin dryness, tightness and peeling are all normal part of healing process.

DOWNTIME What Is the Downtime After IPL Treatment?

Downtime is generally minimal and manageable but varies depending on the individual and treatment intensity.

• Mild to moderate redness, sensitivity, swelling, itching, swelling, sunburn sensation typically resolve within a few hours to few days.
• For pigmentation treatments, treated spots will darken and form superficial micro-crusts as part of the pigment clearance process – resolving within 5-8 days on the face and 8-14 days on the body. ⚠️Picking or scratching the micro-crusts may cause pigmentation changes or scarring.
• For vascular and redness treatments, purpura or bruising and skin flaking may occur and typically resolves within 1-2 weeks.
• Acne treatments generally involve the least downtime, with mild redness and swelling typically resolving within a few hours.

RISKS What Are the Possible Side Effects of IPL?

Unlike normal post-treatment responses and downtime, side effects occur beyond the expected healing process and are uncommon. These may include burns, blistering, skin infection, pigmentation changes including hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, and scarring.

⚠️Serious adverse effects are rare when treatment is performed by a qualified professional with appropriate settings and client assessment.

SUITABILITY Who Is Not Suitable for IPL Rejuvenation?

IPL treatment is not suitable for everyone. You may not be a candidate if any of the following apply:

• Pregnancy
• Active skin infection like cold sores – IPL can trigger an outbreak in susceptible individuals
• Recent sun exposure or fake tan in the treatment area
• Active skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis in the treatment area
• Health conditions that negatively affect skin healing
• Photosensitising medications such as antibiotics, retinoids or anti-inflammatories
• History of keloid scarring
• Active cancer or history of skin cancer in the treatment area
• Suspicious and undiagnosed skin lesions and moles in the treatment area
• Epilepsy – IPL produces intense flashing light

⚠️This list is not exhaustive – a thorough consultation is required prior to treatment.

PREPARATION How Do I Prepare for IPL Treatment?

2-4 Weeks Before:

• Daily SPF 50+ sunscreen and prescribed skincare to optimise skin health and reduce the risk of side effects.
• Direct and prolonged sun exposure avoided, particularly during peak UV hours – tanned skin increases burn risk significantly.
• Chemical peels or resurfacing treatments avoided – compromised skin barrier increases burn risk.

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Fake tan avoided – the residue of fake tan on the skin increases burn risk significantly.

1-2 Days Before:

• Alcohol avoided – may increase skin sensitivity.
• Retinoids, scrubs and AHA exfoliants avoided – may increase skin sensitivity.

On the Day:

• No makeup or fake tan in the treatment area.
• All medications and medical conditions disclosed to ensure safe treatment.

AFTERCARE What Is the IPL Aftercare?

1-2 Days After:

• Heat exposure avoided – strenuous exercise, saunas, hot baths or showers.
• Gentle cleanser and moisturiser as skincare until redness has resolved.
• Cool packs to reduce skin sensitivity and swelling.

1-2 Weeks After:

• Direct and prolonged sun exposure avoided – particularly during peak UV hours.
• Micro-crusts to shed naturally – no picking, scratching or scrubbing.
• Skin treatments avoided unless advised by your clinician.

Ongoing:

• SPF 50+ sunscreen and prescribed skincare to optimise skin health and reduce the risk of side effects.

If Purpura or Bruising Occurs:

• Arnica cream or tablets may assist with faster bruising resolution ⚠️Consult pharmacist or medical doctor for appropriate guidance