Facial Rejuvenation: Pulsed Light Therapy

Pulsed light therapy (sometimes called intense pulsed light therapy, IPL or flashlamp therapy) is a non-invasive laser skin resurfacing procedure that utilizes high-intensity pulses of light that penetrate the skin for a very short period of time. Pulsed light therapy sometimes requires the use of a topical anesthetic that is applied to the treatment area before the procedure begins.There is no down time after the procedure is complete and patients can return home or to work immediately.

Pulsed light therapy is unique in that the high intensity pulses of visible light targets the lower layers of the skin (or dermis) without affecting the top layers. During the procedure, pulses of intense light are directed at the area to be treated. For most conditions, several pulsed light therapy treatments are required to gain the desired effect. Treatments are usually performed every three to four weeks. As the treatments progress, the patient will notice a gradual change: improved texture of skin, decreased areas of redness, and a more youthful skin tone.

Conditions for pulsed light therapy treatment:

• Hyperpigmentation (darkened areas of the skin)
• Age spots, liver spots or freckles
• Flat birthmarks
• Minor sun damaged areas of the skin
• Facial flushing
• Areas of redness in the skin of the face
• Rosacea (facial erythema or redness)
• Spider veins
• Varicose veins
• Broken capillaries
• Tattoo removal
• Hair removal

What to know about pulsed light therapy:

If you have skin or complexion issues that make you a good candidate for pulsed light therapy or laser skin resurfacing and require immediately-visible results, with no general anesthesia and minimal downtime, Vargas Face and Skin can help. Your in-depth consultation with Dr. Vargas will involve an exam of the areas that would benefit from the procedure. Measurements, photos and notes may be taken at this time.