Intense pulsed light (IPL)

IPL is not a laser. It is a light-emitting device that uses a broad range of wavelengths, filtered to a band chosen for the condition being treated.

That distinction matters. A laser emits one precise wavelength; IPL emits many at once. The consequence is that IPL is versatile - one device can address several different targets by changing the filter - but less precise than a single-wavelength laser aimed at one target.

How it works

The principle is selective absorption: certain wavelengths of light are absorbed by the structures that need treating - pigment in a sun spot, haemoglobin in a small blood vessel - but much less by the surrounding healthy tissue. The absorbed light converts to heat and damages the target, which the body then clears.

Because surrounding tissue is largely spared, recovery time is shorter than with treatments that resurface the whole skin surface.

Devices used at Me Clinic

Alma Harmony
Cutera Limelight
Cutera ProWave

Which is used depends on your skin type and the condition being treated. That is decided after assessment, not before.

Conditions it may help

Sun damage and skin ageing
Age spots, freckles and hyperpigmentation
Capillaries and skin redness and facial veins
Rosacea
Birthmarks and skin vessels
Uneven skin texture and fine lines
Acne
Hair reduction

IPL is often used alongside photodynamic therapy (PDT) for acne, sun damage and certain skin cancers, where the light activates a topical medication.

When results appear

It usually takes about six weeks to see the full improvement from an IPL treatment, though improvement is often visible earlier.

With pigmented lesions, treated spots typically darken first over several days, then flake away over one to two weeks. That temporary darkening is expected and is part of how the treatment works - not a sign it has gone wrong.

How many treatments

Depending on your skin type and condition, one to six treatments are generally needed. Ask at consultation what the whole course is likely to cost, not just one session.

Assessment before treatment

Because IPL delivers a broad spectrum of wavelengths, skin pigment absorbs more of the energy than with a precisely targeted laser. That makes assessment of skin type particularly important here.

Skin type, usually classified on the Fitzpatrick scale. IPL is generally less suitable for darker skin types, where a longer-wavelength laser is often preferred.
Recent sun exposure, tanning or fake tan - treatment is deferred.
Medications that increase photosensitivity.
Cold sore history, if treating around the mouth.
Melasma, which can be worsened rather than improved by heat and light in some people - this needs specific discussion.
Any suspicious lesion in the treatment area, which must be assessed before treatment rather than treated over.

A no-obligation consultation with one of our cosmetic physicians, nurses, clinicians or aestheticians is required so your skin can be examined and assessed for suitability. A patch test is standard before a first full treatment.

Aftercare

Avoid sun exposure and use daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid hot showers, saunas, spas and strenuous exercise for a short period. Do not pick or scrub darkened spots - let them flake off on their own. Avoid retinoids and acids for a few days.

Risks

Redness, swelling and a warm or stinging sensation after treatment
Blistering and burns
Changes in pigmentation - darkening or lightening, temporary or persistent
Worsening of melasma in some people
Scarring
Crusting or scabbing
Infection, including reactivation of cold sores
Unintended hair loss in a treated area
Eye injury without proper protective eyewear
Little or no response, or an uneven result

Risk of burns and pigment change is higher in darker skin types and in recently tanned skin.

Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Cost and booking

Cost depends on the area, the device and the number of sessions. As at September 2024 and including GST, a skin assessment with a nurse or aesthetician is $50 and is redeemable on products or services; a consultation with a Cosmetic Doctor is $150.

Me Clinic has over 35 years of experience in cosmetic medicine and 20 years with laser and light-based treatments. Me Clinic is at 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145. Phone 1300 852 050.

See laser skin rejuvenation, photodynamic therapy, Yag laser, skin conditions, or all face procedures.

Individual results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.