Technology

IPL Laser Therapy: Learn The Pros And Cons Of IPL Laser Therapy

Without a doubt, lasers and various light-emitting devices can help reduce the signs of aging and fade signs of sun damage. With so many IPL laser procedures available, knowing the basics of each is essential to making the best decision for your concerns.

a complicated subject

The topic of lasers, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or other forms of skin rejuvenation is a complicated one. If you’ve been doing your homework, you’ve probably come across a lot of complex technical information that’s hard to decipher. Deciding which IPL laser or light treatment can be further complicated if marketers make unrealistic claims and promises. Therefore, it is important to find a dermatologist who is clear on the pros and cons, and the improvements you can expect to see.

Two types of procedures

Laser and laser IPL treatments are either ablative or non-ablative. Non-ablative treatments target the lower layers of the skin, while ablative treatments target both the surface and lower layers of the skin. The system you choose depends on the results you are looking for and the risk you are willing to take.

Ablative lasers can:

  • make a significant difference in the appearance of wrinkles,
  • significantly reduce skin discolorations,
  • Erase years of sun damage by replacing damaged skin with healthier skin.

The risks of ablative procedures include:

  • swelling, scabs, suppuration,
  • bleeding, peeling, redness,
  • significant irritation that requires more time to heal, and
  • long-term skin discoloration and scarring.

After ablative laser treatment, the skin oozes, bleeds, and forms scabs. It takes about two weeks before you look even vaguely normal. If you choose an ablative treatment, carefully follow the postoperative care instructions. Inconsistency or incomplete care can cause infection, delay healing, and increase irritation.

Non-ablative rejuvenation, such as IPL laser therapy, does not have any of the side effects associated with ablative rejuvenation. However, it does not produce the same dramatic results as ablative rejuvenation. And multiple treatments are required to get the most noticeable result. The advantage of non-ablative rejuvenation is its minimal downtime.

Nonablative lasers can:

  • remove some skin discolorations,
  • improve and potentially eliminate redness,
  • improve minor wrinkles and fine lines, and
  • stimulate collagen production after repeated treatments.

The risks of non-ablative procedures include:

  • swelling and possible bruising,
  • a reaction similar to a sunburn,
  • temporary darkening of the treated spots.

There is no better laser

Despite what you probably hear, there is no best laser or IPL treatment for everyone. Which one is used depends on several factors, including your concerns, as well as the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. There is no single best laser or light-emitting treatment; rather, there are several options and each has its pros and cons.

Regardless of which device you and your dermatologist choose, make sure you are fully informed about what to expect and what is required of you before and after the procedure. And of course, none of these treatments will provide great results if you’re not diligent about using a great skincare routine that includes daily sun protection.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *