Unveiling the Secrets of IPL Photofacials: Reducing Sun Damage and Hyperpigmentation (Lumecca)

When it comes to skin, sun damage is one of the hallmarks of the fall season. Throughout the summer, we tend to spend time in the sun doing fun activities. However, the impact of spending so much time in the sun can catch up with us. IPL, or intense pulsed light, is one of the most potent technologies available for getting rid of pigmentation and achieving a more even skin tone. Here’s what to know about Lumecca, our state-of-the-art IPL technology here at Care Plastic Surgery.

What is IPL?

IPL is a type of laser energy that can target specific pigmentation in the skin. Your skin contains melanin, the pigment which creates its normal appearance. Skin concerns like brown spots tend to contain higher amounts of melanin which can be targeted with a specific wavelength. This process damages the cells, causing them to peel from the surface of the skin. The result is clearer, more even-toned skin – IPL can also be used to treat redness using the same principle. It simply targets hemoglobin, the pigment in your blood vessels that gives them color. The laser energy damages the cells, causing the body to absorb them and fade from the surface of the skin.

What Can Lumecca Treat?

Lumecca and IPL technologies are the best solutions for types of pigmentation. These typically include:

• Age spots
• Sun spots
• Spider veins
• Rosacea
• Redness
• Freckles
• Moles

IPL can be used on the face and body, treating areas that might also be exposed to sunlight like the neck, chest, shoulders, legs, arms, and hands. The added benefit of IPL is that it also stimulates the production of new collagen. Collagen is what gives your skin its youthful quality and healthy glow, meaning IPL can improve the overall elasticity, look, and feel of your skin. Although it’s most commonly used to address pigmentation, it can also be a subtle way to reverse lines and wrinkles that come with sun damage, too.

How Many Treatments Do I Need?

IPL can be used to treat specific spots or it can be used to address larger areas of skin. In most cases, a package of 1-3 treatments is needed, and these are spaced about one month apart. While you will  notice an improvement in your skin after just 1 treatment, a series of 3 treatments is recommended for the most optimal results.

Is There Downtime?

Lumecca IPL doesn’t require downtime, but you will need to take some specific aftercare steps for best results. For example, you’ll need to stay out of the sun and avoid tanning for at least one month – and wear daily sunscreen of at least SPF 30. You’ll also need to avoid any harsh skincare ingredients or exfoliation since your skin will be sensitive. Finally, you may experience some itchiness or flaking, but it’s essential to avoid bothering it.

When Will I See Results?

IPL can produce results relatively fast compared to other skin rejuvenation options. You’ll have redness and sensitivity (similar to sunburn) over the first few days, but you’ll see a noticeable improvement in your skin beginning at 1-2 weeks. Multiple sessions can improve your results, which can last for the long term with maintenance treatments yearly.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re interested in learning more about Lumecca, our team is here to help. To schedule a skin analysis with one of our aestheticians, please contact our Cary, NC office by calling us at 919-484-4884 or filling out our online form.

Return to Overview