How does IPL
work? IPL consists of a very bright, controlled
light that is absorbed by various components of
the skin. The colours in the light are attracted
by the red and brown discolouration in the skin
and by the collagen tissue. The body's healing mechanism
takes over and absorbs the reds, sloughs the browns
and stimulates the production of new collagen. The
light is customized to your specific skin condition
and colour to effectively improve the cosmetic appearance
of your skin. It will appear smoother and younger-looking.
Which device
is used in Dr. Gidon's office? We use the
Lumenis 1 ™ system, which delivers state-of-the-art
photorejuvenation technology.
What is photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation using IPL is a safe and effective
treatment for men and women to reverse sun-induced
skin damage. It improves the texture of the skin,
stimulates your own collagen to help smooth fine
lines and wrinkles, clears red blotches and spider
veins, and fades brown spots, including brown age
spots found on the backs of hands. It can also soften
scars and reduce pore size, all with very little
recovery time.
What areas
can be treated? It is usually performed
on the face, neck, chest, back, arms and hands.
How is the
treatment done? Dark goggles are worn to
protect your eyes from the bright light. A cold
gel is applied to the skin to help the absorption
of light and keep the skin cool. The pulse of light
feels like a small sting, but it is well tolerated.
The treatment takes about 30 minutes. Usually 5
or 6 treatments, 3 to 4 weeks apart, are required
to see maximal results. Improvement is natural and
gradual. You must avoid tanning while undergoing
treatment.
How will I
look right after treatment? If you have
red, blotchy skin, you will probably have some temporary
redness. If you have brown age spots or freckles,
they will appear darker for the first few days and
then peel off. Immediately after treatment, most
patients can carry on with their normal activities
and must use sun protection. If you are prone to
facial cold sores, Dr. Gidon will prescribe antiviral
medication to prevent a recurrence.
What conditions
can be treated?
- sun
damage
- redness,
flushing and small veins
- rosacea
- red
discolouration and enlarged pores caused by acne
- brown
pigmentation, age spots and freckles
- a
dull complexion
- fine
lines and mild scarring
What improvement
can I expect? Your skin will appear smoother,
firmer and refreshed. Improvement in tone and texture
will give a more polished look. You will have a
more even skin colour, with reduced pore size, softened
fine lines and improved acne scarring.
How long will
the results last? The results can last
for years, depending on the aging process and environmental
factors such as sun exposure. A maintenance treatment
every 3 to 4 months, the use of anti-aging products
recommended specifically for you by Dr. Gidon, and
sun protection will give long-lasting results.
Can photorejuvenation
be used in combination with other procedures?
Yes. This treatment complements and enhances other anti-aging
treatments such as Thermage™, Fraxel™, Botox® Cosmetic injections, filler substances,
chemical peels and microdermabrasion to keep skin healthy
and attractive.
How do I know
if photorejuvenation will improve my skin?
Dr. Gidon is very skilled in the use of intense
pulsed light and has many years' experience treating
sun damaged skin. During your consultation, she
will assess your skin and determine if this treatment
is appropriate for you. She can customize a skin
rejuvenation program for your specific concerns.
