Living on the Central Coast means spending time outdoors, and over the years, all that sunshine can leave its mark. Sun spots, redness, broken capillaries, and uneven skin tone are common concerns we see at our practice, and the good news is they do not have to be permanent. At Coastal Dermatology + Aesthetics, we are proud to offer IPL Photofacial treatments to help restore your skin’s natural clarity and glow. Using the power of intense pulsed light, this non-invasive treatment targets discoloration and vascular concerns below the surface of the skin, revealing a smoother, more even complexion with little to no downtime.
What Is an IPL Photofacial?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, a light-based technology that delivers multiple wavelengths of energy into the skin. Unlike a traditional laser, which uses a single wavelength, IPL emits a broad spectrum of light that can be customized to target specific concerns such as sun damage, age spots, freckles, broken capillaries, and rosacea. During treatment, the light energy is absorbed by pigmented or vascular cells beneath the skin’s surface and converted into gentle heat. That heat breaks down excess melanin and reduces visible blood vessels, allowing your body to naturally clear them away over the following days and weeks. IPL Photofacial treatments can be performed on the face, neck, chest (décolleté), arms, shoulders, and hands.
What Does IPL Photofacial Treat?
The areas of your body most exposed to the sun tend to benefit the most from IPL treatments. When you visit our team at Coastal Dermatology + Aesthetics in San Luis Obispo, we will evaluate your skin and create a personalized treatment plan. Some of the most common concerns we address with IPL include:
- Sun damage and brown spots
- Age spots and freckles
- Broken capillaries and small spider veins
- Rosacea and facial redness
- Uneven skin tone and texture
How Does IPL Photofacial Work?
By selecting the appropriate wavelength filter, your provider can tailor treatment to your specific skin concerns. The light energy delivered by the IPL device gently heats the upper layers of the skin, helping to restore a more even, youthful appearance. For pigmented areas, the photothermal energy breaks down excess melanin so that darkened spots gradually rise to the surface and flake away naturally. For vascular concerns like redness and broken capillaries, the light targets and reduces the tiny blood vessels responsible for discoloration. Throughout the process, a cooling tip on the device helps keep the skin comfortable. Most sessions take between 15 and 60 minutes depending on the treatment area, and you can return to your normal routine right away.
What Can I Expect From IPL Photofacial?
We generally recommend a series of 3 to 5 IPL treatments spaced about four weeks apart, depending on the extent of sun damage and your individual skin goals. After each session, you may notice some mild redness that typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Pigmented spots in the treated area will often darken before naturally flaking off over the course of 3 to 14 days. It is important not to pick or scratch these areas as they heal. Following your initial treatment series, periodic maintenance sessions can help keep your results looking their best.
Please note: Retinol and exfoliating products should be discontinued 7 to 10 days before each treatment. Your provider will share complete pre- and post-care instructions at your appointment. Avoid direct sun exposure (natural and artificial) for 7 to 10 days following each session, and be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
Before and After Photos
Cosmetic Consultations at Coastal Dermatology + Aesthetics
At Coastal Dermatology + Aesthetics, we offer 30-minute comprehensive cosmetic consultations. This consultation is the first step in achieving your long-term aesthetic goals. Whether you are new to the world of aesthetics or looking to further explore your options, we have an experienced team of skilled providers to assist you.
Please call the office at (805) 544-5567 to schedule your cosmetic consultation. A $125 consultation fee will apply.
