Non-Invasive Photofacial IPL/Photodynamic Treatments

Photofacial treatments are becoming more popular across the country. We know your time is valuable, but now you can look your best without the downtime associated with laser treatments. Zel Skin’s photofacial treatments use intense beams of light to help lessen the appearance of sun damage, reduce pore size, and reduce the appearance of freckles, light acne scars, small facial veins, rosacea, and overall red skin.



IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments target the lower layer of the skin with high energy broad-spectrum light waves. Photodynamic treatments (PDT) involve a photosensitizing compound that is applied to the skin and later activated by blue light, targeting more superficial skin. Both treatments work best on fair, tan-free skin, especially that found on the neck, shoulders, back, and hands. Both IPL treatments and PDT treatments encourage regrowth of collagen, which helps reduce fine lines and improve and even out skin tone. If you’re wondering which option is best for your skin, talk to a dermatologist.

 

What to Expect from IPL and Photodynamic Treatments

An IPL treatment begins with a thorough skin cleansing. Your practitioner will cover your eyes to protect them during the procedure. Then, a cooling gel will be applied to the treatment area to cool the skin and provide lubrication for the instrument. The practitioner will run this instrument across your treatment area. It emits high-energy, broad-spectrum light waves that feel like snaps of a rubber band as they pulse into the skin. Redness or swelling from the procedure often disappears within a day, but it can take up to a week.  Typically, there is no downtime, as makeup can be applied right after treatment.

Patients with severe acne may experience longer recovery times, and a few people may experience changes in skin pigmentation, bruises, blistering, and crusting, all of which resolve quickly. Sun exposure must be avoided, and sunblock must be used consistently for at least two weeks after treatment. Three to five treatments spaced a month apart often yield the best results, which can last a year or more.

Photodynamic treatment also begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin. A photosensitizer cream is applied, followed by the prescribed incubation time, which may be up to several hours.  The heat of the blue light application can feel tingly, warm, hot or burning. The skin will appear red and irritated for three to ten days after treatment, but this can be lessened with application of ice. PDT causes sensitivity to all light for about six weeks after treatment. No exposure to sunlight is allowed for 48 hours after treatment, and sunscreen and sun protection must be used after that. Two or three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart may be needed to achieve the desired result.

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Zel

If you are interested in these procedures, you will need to visit a doctor for IPL and photodynamic treatments. At Zel Skin & Laser Specialists, we’re committed to technologies clinically proven to provide results. We are a dermatologist-directed skin care clinic, led by Dr. Brian Zelickson. Our medically-trained staff will work with you to determine the best corrective treatment options for your skin. Our goal is to help you look good and feel good too, by working with you to achieve and maintain your skin’s best appearance.

Contact us to schedule a consultation today.

*Results may vary per patient. Services vary by location.