Home | Cosmetic Dermatology | IPL

IPL

We offer intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments—sometimes called IPL photofacials—at our practice in The Woodlands, TX, to treat skin conditions such as age spots, rosacea, and other imperfections. While IPL is often thought of as a laser treatment, the technology actually uses light energy to treat larger areas of skin discoloration, including the face, chest, arms, or back. Women and men visit our skin specialists for IPL from Cypress, Spring, Conroe, Tomball, and other nearby towns to have evenly colored, younger-looking skin with minimal downtime.

How Are IPL Treatments Performed?

IPL procedures are performed much like laser skin resurfacing treatments. In fact, The Gill Center uses the same versatile Palomar Icon for both types of treatments. Unlike lasers, IPL technology works by emitting high-intensity pulses of broadband light that penetrate deep into the skin without harming the skin’s surface. The computer-controlled pulses of light target pigmentation to reduce the skin’s discoloration.

The procedure usually begins with applying a topical anesthetic to the treatment area. After thoroughly cleansing the skin and applying a layer of gel, the provider places a handheld device on the skin’s surface. The device delivers pulses of light energy into the skin. The process continues until the entire treatment area is covered. A cold compress applied to the skin for several minutes after the procedure helps minimize any discomfort you might feel. The last step is the application of moisturizer and sunscreen.

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.

IPL is used more often if a patient has very small blood vessels or brown discoloration from sun damage in an area such as the face, chest, arms, or back. It’s very effective at creating an evener skin tone in a specific area. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that people with darker skin types should avoid IPL treatments. Instead, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser resurfacing can improve skin texture and tone.

What Is Recovery Like After an IPL Treatment?

An IPL treatment is less intense than laser skin resurfacing, but you can still experience some similar side effects. Your skin may look sunburned and become rough and flaky within a few days. Discolorations may darken, then the skin sloughs off a few days later. Tenderness and mild swelling can also occur during the initial day or 2 after the treatment. Avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen, Ginkgo biloba, and other certain herbs during the week before the procedure helps to minimize bruising.

The Gill Center provides IPL patients with detailed pre- and post-treatment instructions to help ensure their experience is positive.

Typically, a patient’s skin looks and feels smoother within 2 to 3 weeks of an IPL treatment. We recommend a series of treatment sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to promote even more improvement in the skin’s tone and to further minimize dark spots.

How Much Does IPL Cost?

The cost of an IPL treatment varies depending on the procedure’s extent. A price quote determined after your consultation takes into consideration the concerns you have and your cosmetic goals. In some cases, we may recommend a different procedure, such as a chemical peel or microneedling if it’s better suited to your needs.

If you want to reduce the appearance of sunspots, freckles, or other skin discolorations, an IPL treatment can help. Houston-area residents choose The Gill Center because of our reputation for excellent results provided in a welcoming environment. You can request a consultation using the online form or call The Gill Center at (281) 853-5308 to schedule an appointment.

*Fees include package pricing (surgeon fee, operating room, general anesthesia, follow ups, garments). We offer multiple financing options available. Refer to our website. Some 0% interest rates. $500 non-refundbale deposit secures your surgery date. Remaining balance due 2 weeks before surgery. 5% cash discount on surgeon fees (cash/check/money order)

Back to Top