How Does IPL Photofacial Work?

Unlike a single-wavelength laser, an IPL device delivers a range of light wavelengths selected for the concern and skin tone. Darker pigment absorbs part of the light and may look temporarily darker before it flakes or fades. Redness can respond when blood vessels absorb the energy and become less visible over time.

The treatment works best on specific colour differences between the target and surrounding skin. It can be considered for freckles, sun-damaged skin, some forms of hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory erythema, and selected rosacea patterns. It does not remove every cause of uneven colour, and active inflammation or a recent tan may change whether treatment is suitable.

A clinician should assess your skin tone, tanning history, medicines, and the exact type of pigmentation or redness before choosing settings. Avoid tanning and follow the clinic's instructions about products that can irritate your skin. During treatment, protective eyewear is used and the skin may feel warm or briefly snap-like.

Afterward, use gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. Do not pick at darkened spots or peel away flaking skin. The area may be pink, warm, swollen, or temporarily more pigmented; these changes should settle as the skin recovers. Ask whether another option, such as Picosecond Laser Treatment, fits your particular concern.

Contact the treating clinic promptly if pain is worsening rather than easing, blisters or open areas develop, swelling affects the eyes or breathing, or redness spreads with increasing warmth and discharge. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty or rapidly progressive facial swelling. New or changing pigmented marks need a medical assessment rather than cosmetic treatment.

Ask which pigment or vessels the treatment is intended to target, what settings are appropriate for your skin tone, how to prepare if you have recently tanned, and which changes should prompt a call. Clarify expected recovery, sun protection, and whether your medicines or a history of colour change affect the plan.