Intense Pulsed Light Therapy Helps Skin Without Resorting to Surgery

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy is a medical procedure that uses a specialized machine to emit light pulses onto the skin. The light energy is absorbed by the skin cells and converted into heat, which destroys the unwanted cells. IPL treatment is often used to improve the appearance of sun damage, age spots, rosacea, and other skin conditions. The procedure was first used by dermatologists in the early 1990s and has become increasingly popular. In its early days, tools included a hand-held device that emitted light from a flash lamp. Newer machines use an array of LEDs to deliver the light energy more evenly over a larger area. IPL treatment is considered safe and effective when performed by a qualified medical professional.

Reasons to get IPL therapy

IPL therapy has been credited for many things but is most commonly used as a photo rejuvenation treatment. Photo rejuvenation is the use of light to treat skin conditions. IPL treatment can be done on the hands, chest, neck, and face. The circumstances and the expected outcome will determine how many treatments are necessary. Here are some circumstances where IPL therapy is recommendable:

• Undesired hairs; IPL treatments can be used to completely eliminate unwanted hair by a method known as "photoepilation."
• Rosacea is a skin ailment that is distinguished by skin irritation and redness. IPL treatment can aid in rosacea symptom reduction. Through a procedure known as "photorejuvenation," which employs light to enhance the look of the skin, it is accomplished.
• Areas of pigmentation called "age spots" occur as a consequence of sun exposure. Age spots can be reduced and skin tone evened out with IPL therapy.

Medical conditions that use IPL therapy include:

• By eliminating the microorganisms that cause pimples, IPL procedure can treat acne.
• A recurring skin disorder called psoriasis results in red, rough patches of skin. IPL medication can aid in psoriasis symptom relief.
• Eczema is a disease that results in dried, scratchy, and irritated skin. The effects of IPL treatment can be used to lessen eczema symptoms.
• A stinging rash is brought on by the infectious virus known as shingles. IPL therapy can facilitate the regeneration mechanism and lessen shingles-related pain.
• Warts; IPL therapy can be used to destroy the virus that causes warts.

Pros and Cons of IPL Treatment

There are many good aspects to IPL treatment as well as some negatives as well. The pros include: 

• It is non-invasive; because IPL therapy does not involve surgery, there is no need for anesthesia or recovery time.
• It is safe; when performed by a qualified medical professional, IPL therapy is comfortably a secure process.
• Collagen increase; IPL therapy has been shown to increase collagen production, which can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Recovery; there is no recovery time needed after IPL therapy, and patients can resume their normal activities immediately.
• Long-lasting results; the results of IPL therapy can last for years, depending on the condition being treated.

Some of the cons of IPL treatment include: 

•  It is not always practical; sometimes, multiple sessions may be needed to get desired results.
• IPL can be costly; the price will vary based on the region being targeted and the required amount of treatments.
• There is a risk of side effects; although rare, there is a risk associated with IPL therapy. These may include redness, swelling, blistering, and changes in skin color.
• It is not suitable for everyone; IPL therapy may not be ideal for people with a darker skin tone or certain medical conditions. An alternative like laser therapy may be recommended in these cases.

Many cutaneous disorders can be effectively and safely treated with IPL therapeutic interventions. A skilled physician must be consulted to determine whether IPL therapy is appropriate for you.