How effective is IPL photofacial for freckles?

Intense pulsed light delivers selected wavelengths that are absorbed by melanin in pigmented spots. The treated freckles usually darken or become less noticeable as the pigment clears from the skin. IPL is not the same as a single-wavelength laser, and it may not be appropriate for every skin tone or every brown mark. A clinician should examine changing or unusual lesions before cosmetic treatment, since a spot that needs diagnosis should not simply be lightened.

Avoid tanning and follow the clinic's instructions about sun exposure, skincare products, and medicines that increase light sensitivity. Tell the practitioner about recent tanning, active skin irritation, a history of abnormal scarring, or medicines and supplements. After treatment, use broad-spectrum sun protection, avoid picking at treated areas, and follow cooling or moisturising advice. Temporary redness, swelling, or darkening can occur; pigment changes are more concerning when they persist or worsen.

Contact the clinic for blistering, severe pain, crusting, spreading swelling, or redness that is getting worse rather than settling. Seek medical assessment before IPL for a freckle that is changing in shape or colour, bleeding, persistently crusted, or unlike your other spots. If dark or light patches remain after healing, ask the treating clinician for review and clear sun-protection advice.

Are these marks suitable for IPL after examination? What settings and precautions fit my skin tone? How should I prepare if I have recently been in the sun? What should I do if a spot changes after treatment?