In recent years there has been an explosion in the popularity of Intense Pulsed light treatments. They are quick, incredibly effective and, in the right hands, very safe. At Clear Complexions, we have a variety of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) systems which allow us to tailor the treatment to the individual.
What conditions can IPL treat?
IPL is perfect for the treatment of:
- Pigmentation
- Thread veins, capillary damage and cherry spots
- Pigmented Acne Scarring
- Unwanted hair
- Rosacea
- Small leg veins
Is it suitable for all skin types?
It is suitable for most, but not all skin types. Before an IPL treatment, our nurses will have a consultation with you, utilising imaging software that visualises your skin 2mm below the surface. This aids us in assessing the damage as well as your suitability to have IPL. We will also perform test patches at the consultation to ensure both your safety as well as the efficacy of the treatment.
How does IPL work?
Pigmentation – The IPL emits a pulse of light at a wavelength that is absorbed by the melanin in the pigmented lesion. This heats up the melanin, whilst leaving the surrounding skin cool. The heat causes the particles of melanin to break up into smaller particles which the body then removes via it’s natural waste processes. This process takes 4-7 days.
Vascular damage (Thread veins, capillary damage and cherry spots) – The light energy from the IPL is absorbed by the haemoglobin in the blood vessels, which injures the vessel walls. This breaks down the walls of the vessel with each subsequent treatment, leaving the area visibly less red.
Unwanted hair – Utilizing a precise wavelength, the IPL light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair. This light is converted to heat energy. It runs down the shaft of the hair and heats up the follicle, immediately disabling it. That follicle will not produce another hair again. There is no impact on the surrounding skin.
What happens at a treatment?
At your IPL treatment, the nurse will start by photographing (when appropriate) the area to be treated. They will then apply a cooling gel and give you appropriate eye wear. The treatment feels like a sharp, hot flick on the skin. It is uncomfortable, but tolerable. The length of time for each treatment varies depending on the area being treated. After the treatment, your nurse will apply a soothing moisturiser and a 20% zinc to protect the skin.
What can I expect after a treatment?
For pigmentation and vascular treatments, you can expect to feel a warm, but not hot sensation. The area can appear red for up to a few hours after the treatment. The next day, you will notice the pigmentation has darkened. This will remain slightly darker for 4-7 days after which it will shed off the skin, leaving the pigmentation visibly lighter. Vascular lesions will be redder directly after the treatment and for a few days. After 2-3 days, the area will appear visibly less red.
Your nurse will advise you on how to care for your skin after a treatment. Click here to book a consultation
Why have IPL treatments with a Clear Complexions nurse?
Unlike other pulsed light machines, the systems our nurses use are unique in that they balance the number, length and duration of each shot. The significance of this is that it enables the treatment to be much more targeted. This flexibility allows our nurses to tailor each and subsequent treatments differently, enhancing the results for the client.
It is worth noting that when comparing similar devices, one may deliver a totally different outcome to another. The reason for this is that, unlike lasers, IPL‘s have no international guidelines associated with their manufacture and energy output. Essentially, not all IPL’s are created equal!
A recent study conducted by Godfrey Town, who is a clinical technologist, discovered that a significant number of IPL devices omitted up to 30% less energy than the device indicated and was well below a safe standard for use. Also discovered was that as the life of the lamp went on, as much as a 70% drop in energy occurred. (Source: APJ page 52)
These findings are significant in that it is impossible to give a targeted procedure when the operator is unsure of what energy levels are being omitted from the device.
Our IPL’s have a limited number of shots before it must be sent away for recalibration ensuring that there is no significant energy loss or spike, which would compromise treatment outcomes. Essentially we are confident in the output of the machine and therefore our nurses can be much more scientific in its operation.
Good treatment outcomes are dependent entirely on the quality of the device and the experience of the clinic delivering the service.
The IPL systems used in Clear Complexions are included on the Australian register of Therapeutic Goods. All our nurses undertake an independent IPL/laser safety training course conducted by the AACDS. This course is recognised by the WA Radiological Council and QLD Radiation Health, which currently are the only regulatory bodies in Australia.
If you are interested in learning more about how IPL can benefit you, click here to book a consultation with a Clear Complexions nurse.
