What does IPL photofacial treat?

Intense pulsed light uses a range of wavelengths rather than one single laser beam. Depending on the filter and settings, energy can be absorbed by excess pigment or by blood within visible vessels. It may be discussed for freckles, hyperpigmentation, sun-damaged skin, post-inflammatory erythema, rosacea-related redness, and spider veins. Results depend on the diagnosis, skin tone, depth of the target, and whether the trigger continues. IPL is not suitable for every dark spot, so an unexplained or changing lesion needs diagnosis first.

A qualified clinician should assess your skin, recent sun exposure, medicines, tanning products, and tendency to develop pigment changes. Protect the treated area from sunlight and follow the clinic’s instructions about skincare. Mild warmth, redness, or darkening of pigment spots can occur while the skin settles. Do not pick or scrub treated areas. Compare options with [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/) and [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/).

Contact the clinic for blistering, increasing pain, marked swelling, crusting, or redness that continues to spread. Seek assessment for a pigmented spot that changes in shape, colour, or bleeding, because cosmetic light treatment should not delay examination of a possible skin cancer. Report any persistent light or dark patch after healing.

Ask which target is being treated, whether your skin tone and recent sun exposure change the plan, what eye protection is required, and how pigment changes will be managed. Ask whether a diagnosis is needed before treating a single dark or changing spot.