Intense Pulsed Light
What Is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)?
Intense Pulsed Light, often called a photofacial, is a non-invasive laser-based skin rejuvenation treatment offered at Carrington Medical. Unlike traditional single-wavelength lasers, it delivers multiple wavelengths of light into the skin. This energy targets pigmented spots, sun damage, vascular redness, and early signs of aging, while stimulating the skin’s natural collagen production for a clearer, more radiant complexion.
At Carrington Medical, the IPL photofacial is part of a comprehensive laser treatment suite designed to treat a variety of common skin concerns with minimal downtime and quick recovery.
Why Choose Intense Pulsed Light?
Intense Pulsed Light is a versatile and gentle treatment that can address multiple cosmetic concerns in a single session, such as:
Sun Damage & Pigmentation: light pulses break down excess melanin that causes age spots, sun spots, and freckles
Facial Redness & Broken Capillaries: targets hemoglobin in blood vessels to reduce redness and flushing
Uneven Skin Tone & Texture: encourages collagen formation, smoothing skin and improving overall tone
Rosacea & Mild Vascular Concerns: controlled light energy can diminish visible vessels and moderate redness
Many patients appreciate that a photofacial treats multiple signs of photodamage in one treatment without the recovery time required for more aggressive lasers.
How IPL Works
Short pulses of broad-spectrum light penetrate the upper layers of the skin. Pigment-rich cells (like sunspots) and small blood vessels absorb the light, which is converted into heat. This process breaks down unwanted pigment and stimulates the body’s natural healing response, prompting collagen production and cellular turnover.
Because it is non-ablative (it does not remove the outer skin layer), most patients experience little to no downtime and can return to daily life soon after treatment.
What to Expect During & After Treatment
Before Treatment:
Your skin will be cleansed and protective eyewear applied.
A cooling gel may be used to enhance comfort.
During Treatment:
You may feel a light snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band on the skin which is generally well-tolerated.
Sessions usually take about 15-30 minutes depending on the area.
After Treatment:
Expect mild redness, warmth, or slight swelling, which typically fades within hours to a day.
Treated pigmentation may appear darker temporarily before flaking off over the following week as the skin renews itself.
Daily sunscreen and gentle skincare are essential to protect results.
Most patients see noticeable improvement after the first session, with optimal results achieved in a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart.
Is Intense pulsed Light Right for You?
IPL is ideal for individuals with sun-related pigmentation, redness, uneven tone, and early signs of aging who want revitalized skin without harsh procedures. Because it targets pigment and vascular concerns through light absorption, it’s most effective on lighter skin tones — a professional consultation will help determine suitability.
What to Expect During & After Treatment
Before Treatment:
Your skin will be cleansed and protective eyewear applied.
A cooling gel may be used to enhance comfort.
During Treatment:
You may feel a light snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band on the skin which is generally well-tolerated.
Sessions usually take about 15-30 minutes depending on the area.
After Treatment:
Expect mild redness, warmth, or slight swelling, which typically fades within hours to a day.
Treated pigmentation may appear darker temporarily before flaking off over the following week as the skin renews itself.
Daily sunscreen and gentle skincare are essential to protect results.
Most patients see noticeable improvement after the first session, with optimal results achieved in a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart.
IPL pairs beautifully with
Lutronic Ultra Laser
IPL targets pigmentation, redness, and sun damage, while Lutronic Ultra™ improves overall tone, texture, and collagen stimulation. Together, they create a comprehensive skin-rejuvenation approach that addresses both discoloration and skin quality for brighter, smoother results.
Microneedling
Microneedling stimulates collagen and improves texture at deeper levels of the skin. When paired with IPL, this combination helps correct discoloration while enhancing firmness, pore appearance, and overall skin smoothness.
Botox® & Neurotoxins
Botox and other neurotoxins soften expression lines caused by muscle movement, while IPL improves skin tone and redness. This pairing delivers a more refreshed appearance by addressing both dynamic wrinkles and surface discoloration.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore volume and contour, while IPL improves pigmentation and overall skin clarity. Together, they provide balanced rejuvenation by treating both volume loss and sun-related skin concerns.
Medical-Grade Skincare
Professional skincare supports healing after IPL and helps maintain results. Targeted products protect against future sun damage, improve skin barrier health, and extend the benefits of IPL treatments.
