IPL Acne Treatment
The light emitted from the Intense Pulsed Light system directly targets overactive sebaceous glands, greatly reducing the total number and severity of active lesions, and lessening the inflammation and occurrence of break – outs. The light stimulates the production of new collagen to improve skin texture, and can also reduce the appearance of red or brown areas of skin that are often associated with acne breakouts.
How is the treatment carried out?
A layer of chilled gel is applied to the skin to help guide the light. The light guide is placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light is released. The applicator is passed over the skin several times before moving onto the neighbouring area, and the process is repeated until the whole area is treated. Each pulse of light treats a large area of skin and so the duration of the treatment is very short. The gel is removed and the skin is moisturised. During treatment protective eyewear will be provided.
Am I suitable for the treatment?
Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark skinned or tanned individuals or people with cystic acne. This treatment is only for people with mild to moderate acne.
If you are taking Roaccutane (an acne medication) or if you are pregnant it is best not to undergo a laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatment.
What should I expect after the treatment?
Immediately after treatment the skin may appear red and a warm tingling sensation may be felt. Typically the skin is cooled to ease any discomfort and aloe vera gel is applied. This treatment for men may result in some hair removal that could be permanent.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments necessary varies from person to person, but typically 6 Intense Pulsed Light and 6 exfoliating treatments will result in a significant improvement.
Intense Pulsed Light treatments should take place fortnightly with a skin peel or microdermabrasion in between Intense Pulsed Light sessions. In addition maintaining good skin regime is really important.
At Berkshire Skin Clinics we offer the PRIORI Advanced AHA skin range that is perfect for acne prone skin.