How effective is IPL photofacial for sun-damaged skin?

Filtered light is absorbed by pigment and visible blood vessels. After treatment, selected brown spots may temporarily look darker before fading, while diffuse redness may gradually appear less prominent. IPL can make complexion tone look more even and may soften the appearance of some superficial sun-related changes.

It is not a resurfacing treatment for deep wrinkles, significant loose skin or every type of rough patch. A sun-damaged area can also contain a precancerous or cancerous lesion, so any suspicious spot needs medical assessment before cosmetic treatment. The term sun-damaged skin covers several different changes, and the treatment plan should match yours.

Bring a list of medicines and skincare products, and mention recent tanning, peels, active irritation, cold sores or a history of pigment changes after procedures. The clinician may recommend avoiding sun exposure before treatment and using broad-spectrum protection afterwards. Follow instructions about cleansing, moisturising and temporarily pausing irritating products.

Ask how many visits may be considered, how progress will be judged, and whether another approach is better for lines, texture or laxity. Take photographs in consistent lighting if you want to compare gradual changes rather than relying on memory.

Report blistering, severe pain, spreading redness, marked swelling or unexpected colour change to the clinic. Arrange prompt medical review for a spot that is new, changing, bleeding, persistently scaly or not healing; IPL should not be used to conceal an undiagnosed lesion.

Which signs of my sun damage can IPL address? How will you check suspicious spots first, and what changes should I expect during healing? Which daily protection and skincare steps will help maintain the result?