IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

Non-Surgical Laser Treatments IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

When your skin starts showing signs of aging and sun damage, there’s only so much that skincare products can do. Laser treatments and light therapy are effective ways to rejuvenate your skin and clear common complexion issues. The Langdon Center offers IPL treatments to clear hyperpigmentation and restore a smooth, glowing complexion. 

What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)?

IPL stands for intense pulsed light, a type of light therapy used to rejuvenate the skin. Also called a PhotoFacial, this treatment helps reduce signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and more. 

The difference between IPL and a laser treatment is the range of wavelengths. While a laser applies one wavelength of light (down to the nanometer!) to your skin, an IPL device applies a range of wavelengths. Both devices emit intense (very bright) light in short pulses, typically 10-20 milliseconds. IPL pulses have the advantage of producing light of several optimal wavelengths to achieve the desired result in the skin. 

IPL Guilford
IPL Guilford

*Individual results may vary.

IPL Treatment results.

IPL treatments improve your complexion by fading excess pigmentation. Pigment cells in your skin absorb the light energy and heat up. This breaks the pigment cells apart, removing unwanted pigmentation like freckles and redness.

Since it also helps stimulate collagen production in the dermis, it can improve signs of aging and uneven skin texture. However, laser treatments are typically more effective for aging concerns such as wrinkles. Dr. Langdon will evaluate your skin and discuss your goals to help you determine whether light therapy or a laser treatment would be best.

He may recommend an IPL treatment for skin concerns such as:

  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Sun damage
  • Vascular lesions
  • Dilated blood vessels
  • Rosacea
  • Birthmarks
  • Acne and acne scars
  • Dark spots and age spots
  • Mild fine lines and wrinkles

IPL Treatment results.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Langdon Center uses the M22 for IPL treatments, one of the most powerful and versatile devices for skin rejuvenation on the market. Developed by Lumenis®, the M22 is a “platform” that houses both a non-ablative fractional laser (ResurFX™) and an IPL system. 

IPL photo-rejuvenation is a gentle, easy treatment for skin rejuvenation. The light energy penetrates all levels of the skin but does not damage the surface, unlike laser treatments, resulting in less discomfort and side effects. Dr. Langdon will apply a topical numbing cream if needed to ensure your comfort.

You can have IPL treatments for your face, neck, hands, arms, chest, and legs. Depending on the size of the treatment area, the entire IPL procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.

IPL treatments have no downtime and minimal side effects. You can resume your daily routine immediately, though your skin may be slightly red and swollen for a day or two. Your skin may look as if it’s slightly sunburned following IPL treatment, and it will be particularly sensitive at this time, so it’s crucial to avoid sun exposure or wear sunscreen.

Dr. Langdon will give you aftercare instructions to help your skin recover. You may need to avoid hot water, harsh skincare products, and strenuous exercise for a few days after an IPL treatment. Full recovery from intense pulsed light therapy is approximately one week.

After IPL treatments with the M22 platform, you can enjoy skin that appears more youthful and has a more even tone. Reduced redness and dark spots will leave your complexion bright and clear. Additionally, increased collagen production may smooth out wrinkles.

Most patients need multiple IPL sessions to achieve optimal results. Although many patients see improvements shortly after the first treatment, full results typically take four to six sessions. Skin concerns like acne scars and dark spots may require additional treatments.

You’ll likely see reduced redness a couple of weeks after your first IPL treatment, with continued improvement over time and with more sessions. Once you reach your desired results, you can maintain your youthful, glowing complexion with follow-up treatments every few months.

Intense pulsed light therapy is often an effective treatment option for hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and minor aging concerns. Because it targets the pigment in your skin, IPL is best for patients with light to medium skin tones. Dr. Langdon can recommend other skin rejuvenation options for patients with darker skin tones. During a detailed consultation, he’ll help you determine if IPL is right for you and answer any questions you may have.

Take the next step.

To learn more about IPL laser treatments or to schedule your consultation with Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Langdon, please fill out the form on this page or call The Langdon Center at (203) 453-8625. We look forward to working with you! The Langdon Center serves patients in the Guilford & New Haven, CT areas.