What is Intense Pulsed Light and how does it work?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses broad-spectrum light, which filters out unwanted harmful wavelengths. The selected wavelengths penetrate the skin without disrupting it. The light is then absorbed by any red, abnormally dilated vessels and excess, brown pigmentation. The skin’s immune system is stimulated to absorb the excess red flushing and blood vessels and slough off the brown spots. The light energy also stimulates new collagen formation, resulting in a more even complexion with improved texture and fewer wrinkles.

Which technology does The Woodbridge Dermatology and Laser Centre use?

We use the Coherent VasculightTM technology which has 5 laser systems in one, and allows us to individualize each treatment according to each patient’s skin type and lesions being treated. Dr. Nield was the first dermatologist in Vaughan to offer photorejuvenation and has years of experience with IPL technology.

What is a treatment like?

You arrive with a clean face and no makeup or moisturizers. You must not have a tan or be wearing any self-tanning products. You put on protective goggles to shield your eyes from the bright light, your face is cleansed and a cool gel is applied to the area to be treated. The pulse is accompanied by a bright flash that can sting slightly, but is tolerable. A treatment takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being treated. At the end of the session, the gel is removed and sunblock is applied.

Does IPL hurt?

You may experience some discomfort. We apply a cool gel to the skin, but you may experience a burning sensation with each pulse of light. Most patients do not require numbing creams, but they can be used if you need them.

What will I look like immediately after a treatment?

Your skin may be red for a few hours. Brown spots will appear darker, but they will flake off in 3 to 5 days. On rare occasions, some bruising may occur if you have large vessels or markedly red cheeks. Most patients apply sun block and immediately resume their normal activities. If you have a history of facial cold sores, Dr. Nield will prescribe appropriate antiviral medication as light can activate a herpes simplex outbreak in susceptible individuals.

How many treatments will I need?

We’ve seen the best results with 5 treatments, spaced every 3 to 4 weeks. Maintenance treatments are recommended, usually once or twice a year as new red and brown lesions can appear with time.

How much improvement can I expect?

In the first phase (which occurs after the second treatment), you will see a noticeable improvement in texture and tone, and your skin will be smoother and softer. After the fourth or fifth treatment, you’ll notice a reduction in fine wrinkles and improved skin colour. Facial veins generally take 3-5 sessions to resolve. Using other rejuvenating products and procedures offered by Dr. Nield will ensure long- lasting results.

If you have severe wrinkles or scars, you may need a more assertive treatment program – a consultation with Dr. Nield will provide all the details.

Are there any risks?

Every cosmetic skin laser or light procedure involves a small degree of risk. Although they are very uncommon, it is important that you understand the risks involved. They include:

• Skin wounds. Occasionally, a blister or wound can form, which will take 5-10 days to heal, and may leave a light or dark area or a scar.
• Pigment change. With photofacials, there is a very small risk of either darkening or lightening of the skin. These effects are usually temporary. To avoid it, please ensure that you do not tan or using tanning creams before your treatment. Tanning increases your chance of developing a colour change.
• Infection. Though rare, infection is possible any time a skin procedure is performed. If you are prone to cold sores, you could get a cold sore (herpes simplex virus). Antiviral agents will be prescribed to prevent a cold sore outbreak.

Can photofacials be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Photorejuvenation can be easily combined with other anti-aging procedures to create an even more revitalizing effect. You can combine it with BotoxTM , soft tissue fillers such as Radiesse TM and chemical peels , microdermabrasion,  facial rejuvenation/mesotherapy and photodynamic therapy . Cosmeceuticals can also be recommended to enhance your overall appearance.