IPL PHOTO FACIAL TREATMENTS
IN WILTON, CT
Photofacial (IPL): Restore Your Skin’s Natural Radiance
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), often called a photofacial, is a gold-standard, non-invasive treatment designed to reverse the signs of aging and sun damage. Using precise wavelengths of light energy, IPL targets pigment and redness at the source—the deeper layers of the skin—without damaging the surface.
Whether you are looking to erase years of sun exposure or manage chronic redness, our customized IPL treatments provide a clearer, more even-toned complexion with minimal downtime.
What Does IPL Treat?
We tailor every session to your unique skin type and aesthetic goals. IPL is highly effective for:
* Sun Spots & Hyperpigmentation: Fades "age spots" and stubborn freckles.
* Redness & Rosacea: Calms facial flushing and visible redness.
* Vascular Lesions: Targets broken capillaries and "spider veins."
* Skin Texture: Minimizes pore size and promotes a smoother finish.
* Acne Management: Helps control breakouts by reducing acne-causing bacteria.
Why Choose an IPL Photofacial?
Unlike many aggressive lasers, IPL is a "lunchtime" procedure. The treatment is fast, effective, and allows you to return to your daily routine immediately. By adjusting the light’s wavelength, we can provide a bespoke experience that addresses everything from fine lines to unwanted hair.
Expert Tip from our NP: For the best results, we recommend a series of 3–5 treatments spaced four weeks apart. Always pair your IPL sessions with a high-quality SPF to protect your investment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas can be treated?
When Photo Facial IPL is used for skin rejuvenation or for acne clearance, it is typically done on the face, chest, upper back, arms, and dorsal hands. It can be used on any part of the body for hair removal. It is used on the neck for treatment of poikloderma of civatte (redness and pigment alteration due to sun damage). It is used on the face, chest and back for acne.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a light "rubber band snap" against the skin. We use cooling techniques to ensure the procedure is comfortable and quick—usually lasting only 20–30 minutes. Topical anesthetic is available to use however, most people do not feel that they need it since the hand piece cools the skin as it glides over the area.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends upon the amount of damage and what your treatment goals are. For skin rejuvenation it typically requires about three treatments spaced one month apart. While you may see an improvement after just one session, most patients achieve optimal results with a series of 3 to 5 treatments spaced approximately 4 weeks apart. This allows us to progressively clear pigment and redness for a long-lasting glow. For treatment of acne, this is not a cure but rather an adjunctive treatment to use to control acne in addition to other modalities. For control of acne it is used every 2-4 weeks.
How can IPL Photo Facial improve my acne and Rosacea?
The IPL light can kill the bacteria that causes acne and can reduce sebum (oil) and can overall improve skin tone. It also helps with acne scarring - the red and brown spots that remain after the acne bump goes away. It can help with the redness seen in Rosacea as well.
What is the downtime after an IPL Photofacial?
There is minimal to no downtime. You may experience slight redness (similar to a mild sunburn) for a few hours. A unique side effect of IPL is that sun spots may darken and look like "coffee grounds" before naturally flaking off within 3-5 days, revealing clearer skin underneath. You should wear sunscreen after treatment and avoid the sun. Make-up can be applied immediately after treatment.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
To ensure a safe and effective treatment, please:
* Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior.
* Discontinue use of Retin-A, retinols, and AHAs/BHAs one week before.
* Notify us if you are taking any medications that increase photosensitivity (like certain antibiotics).
Is IPL safe for all skin types?
PL is most effective and safest for lighter to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick Scales I-III). Because IPL targets pigment (melanin), there is a higher risk of complications, such as hyperpigmentation or burns, on deeper skin tones.
* If you have a deeper complexion or a tan: We may recommend alternative treatments like Clear + Brilliant or chemical peels that achieve similar results more safely.
* When in doubt: Safety is our priority. If you are unsure if your skin type is a candidate, we require a professional skin consultation to assess your skin and perform a test patch if necessary.