Photofacials are treatments that use different types of
light emitting devices to treat skin discoloration and reduce the appearance of
blemishes.
This procedure is ideal for those looking to treat a variety
of common skin issues including wrinkles, large pores, and acne scars. It is
important to note however that those with tans or naturally darker skin tones
may not be eligible for certain photofacials treatments as the procedure may
cause skin discoloration.
Types of
Photo facial
There are two types of photofacial — intense pulsed light
(IPL) photofacials and light emitting diode (LED) photofacials — and each has
its benefits and drawbacks. The procedure takes between 30 and 90 minutes
depending on the type of photofacial, the treated area, and the practitioner’s
experience.
While some redness and swelling may occur, these should
subside within 24 hours and the procedure requires little to no downtime.
Results are gradual with improvements to the skin beginning to appear in the
days and weeks following treatment.
IPL photofacials, also known as Pulsed Light Therapy,
involve a handheld device that emits pulses of broad spectrum
light through direct contact with the skin. It acts on the deeper layers
of skin, making it ideal for treating broken capillaries, sun damage, and other
impurities.
While relatively simple, the procedure should still always
be performed by a medical professional, ideally a board-certified plastic
surgeon, in order to get the very best results, and to minimize any potential
risks.
LED photofacials involve handheld devices or
lamps that emit various colors of LED light. The effects of this procedure
are believed to be influenced by the color of the light. For example, blue
light treats acne by killing acne-causing bacteria, while red light stimulates
collagen production which in turn treats fine lines and wrinkles.
How do photofacials work?
Both IPL and LED photofacials involve light being absorbed
into the skin. The more intense nature of the IPL photofacial’s light pulses
allows this light to be absorbed more deeply.
IPL photofacial light is soaked up by the hemoglobin (red
blood cells) and melanin (pigmentation) in the skin, intentionally damaging
these areas. The damaged melanin breaks up and is absorbed by the skin,
decreasing its appearance on the skin’s surface. The damaged hemoglobin
stimulates blood flow, causing the melanin to be absorbed more efficiently.
What are photo facials used for?
Generally speaking, photofacials are used to treat skin
blemishes and pigmentation issues. However, there are several specific
conditions that fall under these categories. Both IPL and certain LED
photofacial treatments can be used to treat the following:
·
Broken capillaries (blood vessels)
·
Rosacea
·
Sun damage (sun spots)
·
Hyper pigmentation
·
Spider veins
·
Freckles
·
Fine lines
How long do photofacials take?
IPL photofacials are performed in a series, with each
treatment lasting from approximately 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the
amount of skin being treated. Typically, patients receive between three and six
treatments spaced roughly one month apart.
LED photofacials are also performed in a series.
Typically, individuals undergo as few as five treatments, but as many as a
dozen may be required for optimal results. The length of each treatment varies
widely depending on the tool being used and the volume of skin being treated.
How do I prepare for a treatment?
For starters, with IPL photofacials you need to be
tan-free. Tans can prevent the machine from accurately detecting the specific
blemishes that you want addressed, and put you at greater risk of being burned.
You also need to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, anticoagulants, alcohol, and
anything else that thins the blood. Additionally, be sure to notify your doctor
if you’re taking antibiotics or any supplements.
LED photofacials have less strict requirements.
Simply make sure your face is clean and dry prior to each treatment.
If you are looking for photofacials you may contact
to KEMPS Skin Clinic, Vaishali Sec. 4 and book prior appointment for
better services. Kemps Skin Clinic provide Hair & Skin Care and laser hair
removal service.
