Photorejuvenation or phototherapy (IPL therapy) is a modern cosmetic procedure based on Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology with different wavelengths.
How IPL therapy works
Modern hardware-based photorejuvenation technology allows light to penetrate deep into the dermis. Under the influence of heat, target cells (pigment, blood vessels) are destroyed, the production of elastin and collagen is stimulated, metabolic processes in the cells are activated, and their nutrition and oxygen supply improve. The body perceives photorejuvenation as a natural skin stimulation process. The effectiveness of phototherapy has been clinically proven.
Indications
At the Medest Expert Cosmetology Clinic, the photorejuvenation procedure is performed using the modern IPL system Ellipse, manufactured in Denmark. This device is equipped with three applicators with built-in filters: PR (530-760 nm), VL (555-950 nm), HR (600-950 nm), which help selectively address various aesthetic concerns, such as:
- uneven skin tone
- pigmentation spots (both isolated and generalized skin pigmentation)
- vascular formations – spider veins (telangiectasia), hemangiomas, rosacea, couperose
- atonic skin
- fine wrinkles
- enlarged pores
- acne
Contraindications
- pregnancy and breastfeeding
- recent tanning (within the last two weeks)
- any inflammatory process in the body (ARVI, fever, etc.)
- oncological diseases
- skin damage in the treatment area
- active herpes outbreak
How the photorejuvenation procedure is performed
First, the doctor performs a skin diagnosis, determines whether there are any contraindications to the procedure, and sets the necessary parameters on the IPL system. The procedure itself takes place on a comfortable treatment couch. To protect the eyes, the patient wears special dark glasses. The doctor applies a transparent cooling gel to the patient’s skin to ensure even distribution of thermal energy released during the light pulse. The required area is then treated with light pulses using a special applicator.
During the procedure, a series of short light pulses lasting fractions of a second occur. The patient may feel warmth and a tingling sensation in the treated area. After the procedure, slight redness and swelling may appear, which will subside within 2-3 hours. The doctor applies a soothing cream to the treated area and provides detailed instructions for post-procedure home care.
How many procedures are needed
A photorejuvenation course may consist of 3 to 6 sessions, depending on the severity of the issue. The procedure is performed no more than once a month.
The number of sessions required to remove pigmentation and vascular formations is determined by the doctor based on the depth and size of the pigmentation and vessels. Usually, 1 to 3 sessions are sufficient for complete removal.
If the goal of phototherapy is to eliminate the effects of photoaging and prevent age-related changes, an average of 4 to 6 sessions is required.