What Exactly is a Photofacial?

What Exactly is a Photofacial?

Have you spent time in the sun without proper sun protection? Like most people, you have probably had your fair share of long summer days enjoying the sun’s rays and are now paying the price.  A Photofacial or an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment, will help erase the damage left behind. An IPL device uses an intense burst of broad-spectrum light to target unwanted brown spots/sun spots, broken capillaries, rosacea and overall redness. 

There are multiple benefits from receiving a Photofacial. The IPL is the prime treatment to target redness and pigmentation, but also activates collagen synthesis and regenerates overall skin texture. Indications for IPL include the following :

Sun damaged skin and mottled skin tone

Discolorations, age spots, and freckles

Flushing and facial redness

Vascular lesions: capillary damage, rosacea, telangiectasia

Acne therapy- killing bacteria and lightening PIH (post inflammatory marks)

Poikiloderma, an age related, UV light induced mottling in the neck and chest

WHO IS A CANDIDATE?

Here at Essence, we perform a thorough consultation before going forward with a Photofacial to ensure you are a proper candidate. Once you are approved, we will devise a unique treatment plan to help reach your goals. 

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A PHOTOFACIAL:

Before your IPL procedure, a topical numbing ointment is applied to the skin for 10-15 minutes.  The ointment is removed, and the specific area/s are treated using a 20% overlap. Depending on your skin issues or condition, a second pass may be done.  The treatment has been described as a slight “snapping” sensation with some areas being more sensitive than others. The treatment does not take long and is very tolerable. Post treatment, you may experience a slight sunburn sensation, redness and mild swelling. The brown pigment may also rise to the surface creating a “coffee ground” effect and usually clears within one week revealing clear skin. 

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?

On average, three treatments are typically needed to reach optimal results. After your specific concerns are discussed at your consultation, your laser technician will be able to give you an idea of how many sessions you will need and in exactly what areas of your body. 

Please call Essence Laser and Wellness to schedule your complimentary consult to see if a Photofacial is best for you!

720-583-1826

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