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    IPL Facial

    IPL, photo-rejuvenation, photofacial — all of these describe what is clinically known as intense pulsed light treatments. The Limelight Photofacial by Cutera is a non-invasive approach to skin revitalization. The procedure improves tone and skin imperfections associated with aging and photo-damage. IPL is used for conditions on the face, neck, chest, and hands including, sun damage, rosacea, broken capillaries, age spots, freckles, brown spots, and red or ruddy skin.

    IPL Facial Treatment Overview

    If you are looking for IPL treatment, come check out our 3 locations in Chicago and our location in Wilmette. 

    What IPL does

    IPL utilizes spectrums of light that are preferentially absorbed by brown and red structures in the skin. When the light is absorbed by these, it disables them. Sun spots slough off in the normal exfoliation process and broken capillaries are gradually reabsorbed by the body. While IPL might seem like another kind of laser treatment, it’s not. The difference is the amount of wavelengths the IPL wand emits to the targeted zone, widening the area that can be treated. A series of 3 to 6 treatments is recommended and may be combined with other recommended treatments for optimal results.

    How to prepare for IPL

    Discontinue use of retinoids and prescription topicals 14 days prior to your treatment. Discontinue antibiotics 14 days prior and avoid sun exposure 30 days prior to each treatment. This treatment cannot be performed on pregnant or breast-feeding patients. IPL can only treat fair to medium skin types.

    What to expect during IPL

    You will experience mild discomfort and might feel a snapping when the laser pulses on your skin. Afterward, you’ll experience mild redness and residual heat sensation up to several hours post treatment. You will start to see brown spots come to the surface in the next few days called "peppering". Those spots will flake off to reveal repaired skin.

    Postcare notes

    • Avoid sun exposure. Apply a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to prevent further sun damage.
    • Do not pick the treated area or scabbed areas. Picking will lead to scaring.
    • Avoid hot tubs and saunas for at least 1-2 days post treatment.
    • Avoid products containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic and salicylic acids, astringents, etc for 5-7 days post treatment.
    • Do not work out for at least 24 hours post treatment.

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