In the third and final blog of our IPL series, we will be going into detail about using IPL as treatment for acne and the highly successful, photo-finish illumiFacial. We will go into detail about the process and the benefits of both these treatments.
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and is a popular form of light therapy, used for various dermatological procedures including:
You can read all about IPL for hair removal in the first blog of the series and pigment and red vein removal in the second blog of the series.
How does Intense Pulsed Light work for acne?
The light emitted from the Intense Pulsed Light system directly targets overactive sebaceous glands, greatly reducing the total number and severity of active lesions, and lessening the inflammation and occurrence of break-outs. The light stimulates the production of new collagen to improve skin texture, and can also reduce the appearance of red or brown areas of skin that are often associated with acne breakouts.
How is the treatment carried out?
A layer of chilled gel is applied to the skin to help guide the light. The light guide is placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is passed over the skin several times before moving onto the neighbouring area, and the process is repeated until the whole area is treated. Each pulse of light treats a large area of skin and so the duration of the treatment is very short. The gel is removed and the skin is moisturised. During treatment protective eye wear will be provided.
Am I suitable for treatment?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark skinned or tanned individuals. If you are pregnant or taking Roaccutane (an acne medication) it is best not to undergo Intense Pulsed Light treatment.
How does the treatment feel?
Treatment is mildly uncomfortable but no anesthesia is required. Many people describe the sensation as similar to the flick of an elastic band. A typical treatment session is approximately 30 minutes.
What should I expect after treatment?
Immediately after treatment the skin may appear red and a warm tingling sensation may be felt. Typically the skin is cooled to ease any discomfort and a calming gel is applied.
Are there any side effects?
The treated area can become quite red immediately after treatment but this usually disappears within a couple of hours. Most people experience no other side effects but very rarely a small blister could form or the skin may become temporarily lighter or darker.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments necessary varies from person to person, but typically 6 Intense Pulsed Light and 6 exfoliating treatments will result in a significant improvement.
Consultation procedure
Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch.
What is an illumiFacial?
illumiFacial is the ‘next generation’ of the highly successful ‘Photofacial’ treatment, using a new and unique combination of specialist skincare together with IPL technology. This quick and simple facial treatment dramatically improves skin tone and appearance, helping skin feel and look its best.
The illumiFacial is a 4 stage treatment that consists of the following:
1. Cleanse
The first step in achieving clear, healthy, radiant skin will involve a deep cleanse with your illumiFacial practitioner using a specialist formulation to remove any impurities.
2. Tri-Fruit Acid Peel
Following a deep cleanse, a unique Tri-Fruit Acid Lynton Fruit Peel will be applied to your skin, for anywhere between 3-10 minutes. This peel resurfaces skin texture and decongests pores, priming the skin ready for stage 3.
3. Lynton IPL
Post fruit peel, your skin will be at its optimum condition for the application of the award-winning Lynton Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment. This works by both stimulating collagen and targeting any discolouration on your skin, e.g freckles, pigmentation, vascular breakouts, general redness. In most cases, the results are instant, providing you with dramatically clearer, firmer skin.
4. Hydrate & Protect
To help maximise the results of your illumiFacial treatment, a trio of specialist serums will be applied to your skin post-IPL, helping soothe, regenerate and protect your skin.
Am I suitable for a illumiFacial?
Treatment is perfect for anyone whose skin exhibits congestion, discolouration and visible signs of ageing. A full consultation will be carried out prior to treatment. During your consultation you may be told you aren’t suitable for the illumiFacial but more so for the he Skin Rejuvenation Facial. This is the same as the illumiFacial just without the Tri-Fruit Acid Peel. This treatment encourages the collagen and elastin to reform and helps prevent aging.
How does the treatment feel?
illumiFacial is a very quick, comfortable treatment. Some people will feel a slight tingling sensation when the fruit peel is first applied which quickly subsides. The IPL aspect of this treatment can sometimes be mildly uncomfortable – most people describe the discomfort as feeling like a ‘quick pinprick’ and ‘warm feeling’, which is very tolerable.
Please watch this video on our Facebook page for a detailed testimonial about the process/experience from one of our clients who recently received the illumiFacial from The Beauty Spot.
What should I expect after my illumiFacial?
You may experience a superficial tingling feeling on the skin and you may see a darkening of pigment spots before they flake away – this means the treatment has worked perfectly in providing you with a more even, flawless skin tone. You will also experience an ongoing improvement to the firmness and plumpness of your skin in the following months post-treatment.
Consultation procedure
Prior to treatment you must first undergo a consultation where details about your medical history are obtained in order to confirm suitability. Before proceeding you will be asked to sign a consent form and undergo a patch test.
