Intense pulsed light systems release precisely controlled strong pulses of filtered light that stimulates the fibroblast cells within the skin that produce collagen and elastin. This improves the radiancy and tightness of the skin, controlling enlarged pores, and giving a more uniform complexion.
The skin is thoroughly cleansed, and then a mild, relaxing skin peel is applied. The peel removes the top layers of dead skin, leaving the skin feeling smoother and refreshed.
You will be asked to wear goggles to protect your eyes. A layer of chilled gel is applied to the area to guide the light into the skin. The light applicator is placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area and the process is repeated until the entire area is
treated. The chilled gel is removed and the area moisturised.
The ideal patient is fair skinned but our systems have settings for different skin types. If there are any areas of broken skin, treatment is delayed until the area has completely healed.
No anaesthesia is required and most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable and liken it to a quick pin prick.
The skin of some patients becomes quite red after treatment. However, most patients experience no side effects and any skin reaction usually disappears within a few hours. Very rarely, hyperpigmentation (darkening), hypopigmentation (whitening) or blistering of the skin may occur, but these are usually temporary.
Redness and a slight warming sensation are normal after treatment. A cooling pack will be applied to the skin to ease these symptoms. You may see a darkening of any pigmented spots before they fall off, leading to an evening of skin tone. Tightening of the skin should increase over a 24 hour period, building up with each treatment and lasting between treatments. Some patients notice a slight swelling over the cheekbones, which may last up to 72 hours.
Treatments are carried out every 2 – 3 weeks and 6 treatments are recommended for maximum results. Thereafter, top-up sessions are performed as required.
A facial treatment, including a skin peel, usually takes about 45 minutes.
Prior to any treatment, the qualified specialist will provide a full consultation. It identifies the expectations of the client and provides a complete explanation of the treatment.
A medical history is taken to confirm suitability, and if the client wishes to proceed, a written informed consent is obtained and test patch performed to confirm there are no adverse skin reactions to the light.