Photofacial
From Domicella's wikiStyle
Photofacial, or fotofacial or Photo Facial, is a generic term for a skin treatment that uses some kind of light-based technology. Photofacials have a number of different uses, but are mostly used for boosting collagen or treating various skin conditions such as acne, brown spots, and broken capillaries.[1] It can also be used to treat enlarged pores and sundamaged skin. While typically performed on the face, photo rejuvenation can also treat the neck, chest, and hands.[2]
The two main types of technology used for photo facials are LED (light-emitting diode) and IPL (intense-pulsed light).[1]
Contents |
Photofacial Type: LED
An LED photo facial is a very gentle treatment that uses narrow spectrum light to boost collagen, which creates plumper, younger-looking skin, or to kill the bacteria that causes acne. This type of photo facial is more likely to be found in a day spa with a serious focus on esthetics.[1]
Photofacial Type: IPL
The IPL (intensed pulsed light) hand piece delivers high intensity pulses of broadband light that is different from the narrow band light of lasers. IPL is non-ablative, meaning that is does not damage the surface of the skin. The intense light is delivered to the deeper parts of the skin (dermis) and leaves the superficial aspect of the skin (epidermis) untouched. There are different versions of IPL available on the market that target different structures in the skin. The PhotoDerm VL targets vascular lesions such as spider veins and vascular birthmarks. The PhotoDerm PL targets pigmented lesions such as melasma and age spots. The PhotoDerm HR and Epilight target hair. The thermal effect of IPL also causes production of new collagen, leading to improvement in wrinkles.[3]
Most patients describe the treatment like that of a rubber band being snapped on their skin. For those people sensitive to pain, a topical anesthetic may be applied.[2]
An IPL photo facial is the better choice is you have brown spots, broken capillaries or facial redness. The number of IPL photo facials you need will vary depending on the condition you're treating, the results you want, and how your skin responds.[1]
Photofacial Treatment Time and Recovery
A photo rejuvenation procedure can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area to be treated.[2] You may need multiple treatments, spaced 3 weeks apart.[3]
Post-operative discomfort from photo rejuvenation is minimal to non-existent. Bruising and redness may occur, but this is temporary. Your doctor may give you post-op instructions that you should follow. This can include using sunscreen and avoid using any harsh skin cleansers.[2]
