The procedure uses intense pulsed light, known as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), which consists of a beam of light with wavelengths ranging from 530–560 nm to 1,200 nm. The broad spectrum of these rays allows IPL therapy to be used to treat a wide range of skin problems, including various signs of ageing.

The action of IPL is based on the principle of ‘selective photothermolysis’, whereby the light emitted by the device is absorbed by specific structures in the skin known as chromophores. In photorejuvenation, these chromophores are haemoglobin in the blood vessels and melanin in the superficial layers of the skin and the hair. The absorbed light is converted into heat, leading to the selective destruction of target structures such as pigmented spots, dilated capillaries and hair.

Furthermore, some of the light rays penetrate the superficial and deeper layers of the dermis, stimulating the fibroblasts to produce more new and healthy collagen. In this way, a single IPL treatment addresses several aesthetic concerns simultaneously.

1. Treatment of pigmented patches and diffuse hyperpigmentation of the skin

• Reducing and removing freckles, lentigines and other hyperpigmented lesions caused by sun exposure: IPL therapy is the preferred method for removing superficial hyperpigmentation. Usually, 2 to 4 sessions over 3–4 weeks are required to achieve complete clearance, although the first session often results in visible lightening. It is important that the skin is not tanned and that exposure to the sun is avoided for at least 30–45 days following treatment. It is recommended that the treatments be carried out during the autumn and winter months.
• Reduction of diffuse hyperpigmentation caused by external factors: IPL therapy is the primary method for lightening diffusely pigmented areas, whether the pigmentation is caused by UV rays or a combination of sun exposure and topical substances.
• Melasma treatment: Treating melasma is a challenge, but IPL or other laser systems can lead to improvement. It is recommended that treatment sessions be planned following consultation with a dermatologist and that strict sun protection be observed.

2. Treatment for changes in skin structure

• Reducing visible lines and wrinkles: IPL therapy is an effective method for reducing superficial lines and wrinkles, particularly when ageing is accompanied by hyperpigmentation and vascular changes. Three to four sessions are carried out during the autumn and winter months, and it is important that the skin is not tanned. The treatment can be combined with other rejuvenating methods that stimulate collagen synthesis.
• Improving skin firmness and density: IPL therapy effectively tightens the skin, reduces the appearance of pores and improves skin turgor. It is often combined with other rejuvenating device-based therapies to achieve better results.
• Reducing visible pores: IPL therapy can also be used on young people with enlarged pores to tighten them and reduce excessive oiliness of the skin.

3. Treatment for vascular changes in the skin

• Reducing the appearance of broken capillaries: IPL therapy is the main method for removing broken capillaries on the face, neck, hands and décolletage. For larger blood vessels, it may be necessary to combine this treatment with other laser therapies.
• Reducing diffuse redness: IPL therapy is the preferred method for treating diffuse redness on the face. Three to four consecutive sessions are required to achieve a visible reduction in redness, and an annual repeat treatment is recommended to maintain the results.
• Improvement in the condition of telangiectatic rosacea: IPL therapy is the first-line treatment for early-stage rosacea, particularly when topical medications are not sufficient.
• Reducing congenital vascular lesions: IPL therapy is effective for treating congenital vascular lesions on the face and body. To achieve good results, 4–5 or more treatment sessions are usually required.

Every IPL treatment delivers visible results, but to achieve the longest-lasting effect, it is recommended to undergo at least three consecutive treatments at intervals of 20–30 days. To maintain the results achieved, the treatment can be repeated annually, depending on the changes that occur in the skin due to environmental factors such as sun, wind and cold, as well as natural ageing.

IPL therapy is a non-invasive and relatively gentle procedure that allows the patient to resume their daily activities immediately after the treatment, with no need for a recovery period. The procedure is quick and painless, causing only slight discomfort. After IPL therapy, the skin may remain slightly reddened, similar to the reaction following moderate physical exertion. This effect is temporary and can easily be concealed with suitable make-up until it disappears completely.

The restrictions on undergoing photorejuvenation are mainly related to the season and the need to avoid sun exposure after the procedure. Summer is the only season during which it is advisable to avoid photorejuvenation, due to the increased intensity of sunlight.

Photorejuvenation is a procedure with few contraindications, but it is important to follow certain recommendations. Photorejuvenation should not be carried out during the summer months, when exposure to the sun is frequent, nor when prolonged exposure to sunlight is planned.

This treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding, as well as in cases of hormonal problems that may increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet rays.

It is important to avoid photorejuvenation if the patient is taking medication that increases the risk of skin hyperpigmentation.

The procedure should not be carried out if there are any infectious conditions in the area of skin to be treated, such as herpes or a bacterial infection. In such cases, it is necessary to wait until the inflammation has completely subsided before proceeding with photorejuvenation.

Epilepsy and other conditions that cause fainting and seizures are considered a relative contraindication for photorejuvenation. The bright light during the procedure may trigger a new seizure, so it is important to discuss the risk with the patient and to consult the treating neurologist.

For more information on the prices of IPL photorejuvenation treatments, please see HERE, in the ‘Aesthetic Services’ section.