Photorejuvenation Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
This procedure, alternatively known as FotoFacial, involves a series of gentle treatments designed to rejuvenate aging and sun damaged skin utilizing light energy. These non-invasive, no down-time procedures improve redness, sunspots, fine lines, uneven tone and pore size to restore youthful skin to the face, neck, chest, and hands.

What is Photorejuvenation?

Photorejuvenation is a light based procedure that removes the signs of sun damage such as sun freckles, blood vessels, uneven pigmentation and superficial wrinkles from the surface of the skin. Typically delivered as a series of five treatments over 15-20 weeks, this no-down-time procedure leaves the skin with an even tone and texture, smoother pores and newfound radiance.  Because the machine can detect and report the difference in skin temperature from the beginning to the end of the pulse, it is much easier to deliver just the right amount of energy for your particular skin type in the safest, most effective way.

Who is a candidate?

Good candidates for this procedure are people with sun damaged skin: freckled, discolored, red, blotchy, or those with poor skin texture and/or large pores. In addition, this is a very effective treatment for the redness, dilated blood vessels and flushing of rosacea.  Compared to the Laser Genesis procedure that we also offer, this procedure has more effect on brown discoloration of the skin - freckles and sunspots.

What is Photorejuvenation like?

You will come into the room with a cleansed face after having applied a topical anesthetic cream (not everyone needs the anesthetic, but it does make the procedure more comfortable). The entire surface of the area to be treated (face, neck, chest, hands, arms, legs, back) will be treated with the Intense Pulsed Light. Although this sometimes feels like one small focal spot (similar to a rubber band snap), we target the entire area for maximal response. We do require all those in the treatment room, including the patient, to wear goggles or protective eye wear. The procedure for the face takes approximately 20-30 minutes.  We use the Cutera Xeo Intense Pulsed Light unit.

How does Photorejuvenation work?

There are multiple wavelengths contained in the pulsed light. Some are more effectively absorbed by pigment-containing cells and others by small blood vessels.  By slowly eradicating cells that contain excess pigment, sealing shut small and unneccessary dilated blood vessels, and stimulation collagen growth, the skin achieves a smooth, even-toned, and healthier appearance

What desired results can be expected?

Typical results reveal faded sunspots and pigmentation, and redness and dilated blood vessels disappear as the skin smooths out and becomes more radiant (light-reflecting).  Typically five treatments are necessary to achieve this transformation. Occasionally it can take more or less. This is highly dependent on individual factors, such as skin type, degree of damage, use of concurrent skin care regimens and sun avoidance.

Are there any negatives?

If there are a lot of pigmented spots, they will become slightly darker over the week following treatment and flake off. This type of response is expected and can usually be concealed with makeup.

Excessive heating of the skin can occasionally lead to "foot-printing" (stripes) which consist of areas that have been more improved in the laser track pattern than the surrounding skin. This side effect is most common if the skin being treated is tan or has recently been exposed to the sun and/or if the sun damage is severe.  This unwanted side effect is easily corrected with further treatment.

Rarely, one could develop blisters or crusts that could become infected and cause scarring. This is very uncommon and prompt intervention can avert long-term effects.

What happens after Photorejuvenation?

After the treatment, the eye shields or goggles are removed and you are free to go about your daily business. Makeup and/or sunscreen may be applied immediately and you may return to work or any social engagement. You may continue your skin care regimen.

Is there another way to get the same effect?

There are many other laser and light systems which can be used for rejuvenation. One way to enhance the effect is to remove precancerous or abnormal cells by performing the procedure with photodynamic therapy (see separate section on PDT). Another way would be to have laser resurfacing. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are others. However if they are mild they would not typically produce the same degree of effect and the effect might be more temporary.  Compared to the Laser Genesis procedure that we also offer, this procedure has more effect on brown discoloration of the skin - freckles and sunspots.

What is the cost of Photorejuvenation?

Costs vary depending on the area(s) being treated. Call to schedule a consultation to discuss the best treatment options available for your specific concerns.