What is Lumenis Intense Pulsed Light?
IPL is Intense Pulsed Light, a technology used for various skin treatments. Lumenis Optima IPL is a revolutionary treatment that gently and effectively treats your skin and eyelid inflammation with maximal safety, comfort and full customization to your skin type and condition.
Benefits of Lumenis Intense Pulsed Light
- Quick, in-office treatment with same day recovery
- Targets inflamed blood vessels thereby reducing inflammation
- Improves tear stability by improving meibomian gland function increasing oil production
- Evens skin tone
- Great treatment for both ocular and facial rosacea
- Works well for fair to moderate complexions; not recommend for heavily pigmented patients
- Paired with RadioFrequency or iLux, restoration of meibomian gland function occurs more quickly and may reduce the number of IPL treatments needed.
How does Lumenis Intense Pulsed Light Work?
With IPL technology, light pulses penetrate the tissue and create heat, targeting the abnormal vessels that are the root cause of the inflammation. The body’s natural reaction to the treatment removes the abnormal vessels and heals the inflammation threatening the skin and eyelid. IPL technology is especially effective for patients with facial rosacea and ocular rosacea, as these abnormal vessels are typically more prominent and cause greater inflammation. IPL technology treats your skin and eyelid inflammation while improving overall skin appearance.
Does it hurt/is there any downtime?
Treatment with IPL feels like a gentle rubber band snap with each pulse, but the discomfort is very short and tolerated very well. Most treatments can be performed in under 20 minutes. After the treatment, there is usually a slight redness of the treated area. The redness will generally disappear soon after. You’ll be able to return to your daily activities immediately following treatment.
How many sessions are required?
A series of treatments is always recommended, but every patient is different. The typical treatment schedule for ocular rosacea is 4 to 5 sessions with 2-4 weeks in between. Following the full treatment session, it is recommended to receive maintenance treatments for optimal long-term results, usually every 6-12 months.
How much does Lumenis IPL treatment cost?
Pricing can vary based on your needs. Dr. DenHartog will recommend the appropriate treatment package, to include IPL, debridement and/or radiofrequency, that will best meet your needs. We also accept Care Credit to finance your treatments on a monthly basis.
Am I a candidate for Lumenis Intense Pulsed Light?
Everyone is a candidate, except for those with Fitzpatrick type IV and V (very dark skin tones). If you have a history of cancer on the face, or any open wounds, you will need to discuss with Dr. DenHartog prior to treatment.
What should I do to prepare for my first Intense Pulsed Light Treatment?
*Discontinue Retin-A, Isotretinoin, and Glycolic or Salicylic acid at least 1 week prior to treatment.
*Avoid fillers or botox for at least 2 weeks before or after a treatment.
*Discontinue Doxycycline 2 weeks prior to treatment and do not resume during treatment.
*Discontinue all Self-Tanners 2 weeks prior to treatment and do not resume during treatment.
*Avoid sun exposure, tanning, or sunburn 4 weeks prior to treatment and during the course of treatment.
What do I need to do the day of the Intense Pulsed Light Treatment?
*Arrive with a clean face, free of makeup and lotion.
*Apply sunscreen immediately following the treatment