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.