How does the technology work?

Our light based treatments use a principle called Selective Photothermolysis. The light is pulsed (turned on) for a fraction of a second. The energy released by the light is passed through the skin but is attracted to the area of concern. By controlling the wavelength of the light we can target different structures in the skin. In the case of hair, the melanin (pigment) absorbs light energy, thus heating the hair to such a high temperature that it disables the follicle from re-growing a new hair.

The same process is used when targeting vascular or pigmented lesions, but the wavelengths of light that are used are changed to target these different skin structures.

How many treatments will I need?

The process works by targeting hair in the active growth stage (anagen) at the time of treatment. Depending on the part of the body, only between 10% and 40% of the hair follicles are in this stage at any one time. Therefore, to achieve the desired hair reduction, multiple treatments (typically 5) are required at intervals of 4-6 weeks. Treatments may be purchased individually, however packages of 5 treatments can be purchased at a significant discount. Your recommended course of treatment will be determined by Dr. Means during your free consultation.

Treating a pigmented lesion with intense pulsed light results in heating of the melanin pigment which gives the area its dark color. Pigment from the treated area is then shed as the skin naturally exfoliates. Similar results are seen in the treatment of vascular lesions targets the hemoglobin pigment present within each blood cell, thus causing the blood in the targeted vessel to heat up enough to damage the inside lining of the vessel. When the vessel heals, one wall adheres to the other, permanently closing the vessel. Most people experience the best results with 2-5 treatments at intervals of 2-3 weeks.

Does the treatment hurt?

Most people describe it as being mildly uncomfortable and others describe it as a rubber band lightly snapping the skin. Waxing or electrolysis are typically described as much more uncomfortable than IPL treatments.

What can I expect?

You will see hair continue to come up after the treatment for 1-2 weeks. This is not new hair but is instead the body losing the dead hair. Feel free to continue to shave during this time.

Pigmented lesions will darken and slough after approximately 2 weeks. Vascular lesions will gray or blanch immediately and will fade within 7-10 days.

With all treatments you should avoid unprotected sun exposure to the treated area before and throughout the course of treatment. For the first 24-48 hours after IPL treatment also avoid extreme heat like saunas, Jacuzzis, or strenuous exercise.