Treatments > Photofacials

Dr. Heidi Worth offers Photorejuvenation services with Lumenis IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).

What is Intense Pulsed Light?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a skin treatment which delivers a select range of wavelengths of visible light into your skin in short bursts. The light is transmitted through a small, flat sapphire tip and treats irregular skin tone while improving overall skin texture. The therapeutic light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by pigmented spots or broken capillaries. The pigmented lesions darken and slough off over a week. The capillaries coagulate and gradually disappear. In addition to this, new collagen formation is stimulated adding up to younger, brighter skin.

Is it safe?

Yes, the IPL is safe and effective. Additionally, Dr. Heidi Worth is a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, the world’s preeminent resource for biomedical laser and other related technologies.

Who can have these treatments?

IPL is indicated for patients--male or female--with sun damage, age spots, freckles, fine wrinkles, broken capillaries, rosacea, enlarged pores, and pigmented acne scars. Almost anyone can have IPL photorejuvenation with the exception of people with deeply pigmented skin such as African-Americans. Patients with a history of frequent cold sores may need to take suppressive therapy prior to an IPL treatment to avoid an out-break.

What is a photofacial treatment like?

A typical photofacial treatment takes approximately one hour. A numbing cream (Lidocaine and Tetracaine) will be applied to the area to be treated. After 20 minutes, your face will be cleansed and a thin layer of clear, cool gel will be applied. Eye shields will be applied. The crystal of the hand-piece will be positioned in the gel as a series of quick flashes are sequentially applied to the entire area. You may experience some minor discomfort--like being snapped by a rubber band. You will also see harmless bright flashes from the light transmitted through your skin. After the treatment, the skin will be cleansed again and sunscreen applied. You can apply make-up immediately after treatment. Most importantly: there is NO DOWNTIME.

What can I expect from a photorejuvenation treatment?

Initially, your skin may be red and some of the pigmented spots may be darker. Over 7-10 days, some of the pigment will flake off leaving healthier-appearing skin. If spider veins or broken capillaries are being treated, some bruising over the vessels can occur--often a sign that the unwanted vessel was destroyed. After 3-5 treatments, patients find that their skin is clearer, smoother, and brighter.

How many treatments will I need?

Although many people see an improvement with one IPL treatment, 5 treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart, are optimal for improving skin tone and building collagen in most patients. Dr. Worth will meet with you to customize a treatment program based on your specific needs and desired results. Although not every patient experiences the same result, the program generally leads to a gradual improvement that is remarkable!

What parts of the body can you treat with photorejuvenation?

IPL is idea for the face, where we have most of our sundamage (also called a Photofacial). However, IPL can also be used on any part of the skin, particularly the neck, chest, and hands.

Why do you use the Lumenis system?

Lumenis is the laser company that first invented Intense Pulsed Light and continues to perfect the technology. The system is designed to optimize power while providing maximum results, comfort, and safety.

Photofacials Fast Facts