Understanding IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) usage in Skin Health: Benefits, Treatment Areas, and Contraindications

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a popular and non-invasive cosmetic treatment that has become a go-to solution for many seeking to rejuvenate their skin. Whether you’re looking to reduce pigmentation, treat acne, or address other skin concerns, IPL offers a versatile and effective treatment.
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Dr Louise Smyth

What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)?

IPL is a non-laser light-based therapy that uses a broad spectrum of light to target different layers of the skin. Unlike lasers, which emit light at a single wavelength, IPL releases multiple wavelengths in a pulse, allowing it to treat a variety of skin concerns. The light energy from IPL is absorbed by specific target areas, such as blood vessels, pigment, or hair follicles, leading to various therapeutic effects.

How Does IPL Work?

IPL works by emitting light in broad wavelengths that penetrate the skin’s surface. This light is absorbed by specific chromophores in the skin, such as melanin (pigment) or haemoglobin (in blood vessels). Once absorbed, the light is converted into heat, which helps to break down unwanted pigment or destroy problematic cells without damaging the surrounding healthy skin.

For example:
• For pigmentation: IPL targets melanin in dark spots, freckles, or sun damage and helps break them down so they fade over time.
• For redness or broken capillaries: IPL targets haemoglobin in the blood vessels, reducing the appearance of redness or rosacea.
• For acne: The light can target bacteria in the skin or reduce the activity of sebaceous glands.

What Conditions Does IPL Treat?

IPL is versatile and treats a wide range of skin concerns. Some common conditions treated by IPL include:

1. Sun Damage and Age Spots: IPL can effectively treat pigmentation issues such as sunspots, age spots, and other discolorations caused by UV exposure.
2. Rosacea: Redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels caused by rosacea can be reduced through IPL treatment by targeting and shrinking the blood vessels.
3. Acne: IPL can help reduce acne by killing the bacteria that cause breakouts and reducing inflammation in the skin.
4. Skin Rejuvenation: IPL stimulates collagen production promoting a smoother, younger-looking complexion. This can help reduce fine lines and improve skin texture.
5. Broken Capillaries and Spider Veins: IPL can target small blood vessels near the skin’s surface and cause them to collapse, effectively reducing the appearance of spider veins and broken capillaries.

Who Can Benefit from IPL?

IPL is suitable for most people, but the treatment works best for individuals with fair to medium skin tones. The contrast between the skin tone and the target (such as pigmentation or blood vessels) allows the IPL energy to be absorbed more efficiently, leading to better results.

Benefits of IPL:

• Non-invasive: No incisions or needles are involved, making IPL a safer, less invasive alternative to procedures.
• Minimal Downtime: Most people can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment, though mild redness, bruising or swelling may occur temporarily. Pigmentation will appear darker for 1-2 wks after the procedure.
• Quick and Effective: Treatment sessions are relatively short, with many taking around 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
• Long-Lasting Results: With a series of treatments, IPL can provide long-lasting results. Continued maintenance sessions may be required for best outcomes.

What Skin Types Work Best with IPL?

IPL works best for individuals with fair to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types I-III). The reason for this is that IPL targets specific chromophores, and people with lighter skin tones have a higher contrast between their skin and pigmentation or blood vessels. The treatment can be less effective or even risky for individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI), as the light may affect the melanin in the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation or burns.

Procedures IPL Works Well With

IPL can complement other skincare treatments, working synergistically to enhance results. Common procedures that IPL can be paired with include:

1. The KINS Signature protocol combines IPL with polynucleotides and LED light in one procedure to achieve a hugely impactful all round skin treatment.
2. Microneedling: Combining IPL with microneedling can enhance collagen production and improve overall skin texture, tone, and tightness.
3. Chemical Peels: IPL followed by a mild chemical peel can help improve skin texture and tone while also treating pigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines.
4. Facials: After an IPL treatment course, clients may benefit from advanced facials to repair the barrier
5. LED light helps boost collagen production
6. Polynucleotides or Profhilo help strengthen the second layer under the skin to enhance the overall skin quality and maximise the results achieved by IPL

Contraindications and Precautions for IPL

Though IPL is generally safe, it is not suitable for everyone. There are certain conditions and situations where IPL should be avoided:

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: As with many cosmetic treatments, it is advised to avoid IPL during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as there isn’t enough data to confirm its safety during these stages.
2. Active Skin Infections: People with active skin infections, such as cold sores or open wounds, should avoid IPL treatments in the affected area.
3. Severe Acne: While IPL can help treat mild to moderate acne, individuals with severe cystic acne may not benefit from IPL and should consult with their dermatologist about more appropriate treatment options.
4. Tanning or Recent Sun Exposure: If you’ve recently tanned or spent time in the sun, you may have a higher risk of developing pigmentation issues. IPL should not be performed on skin that is sunburned or actively tanned.
5. Dark Skin Tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI): Individuals with darker skin tones may experience pigmentation changes or burns, as IPL can target the melanin in their skin, leading to complications.
6. Light-Sensitive Conditions: People with certain medical conditions that cause light sensitivity, like lupus or porphyria, should avoid IPL treatment.
7. Use of Photosensitizing Medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics or those used for acne, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to light. It’s important to disclose all medications to your provider before undergoing IPL treatment.

Final Thoughts

IPL is an incredibly versatile and effective treatment for a wide variety of skin conditions. From treating pigmentation issues to improving overall skin tone and texture, IPL can provide lasting and visible results with minimal downtime. However, it is crucial to ensure you meet the right skin type and health conditions for the treatment to avoid potential complications. With the right care and a tailored approach, IPL can be a game-changer in achieving a clearer, healthier complexion.

Dr Louise Smyth