Fine lines, hyperpigmentation, redness, and other skin concerns may not always respond to traditional treatments. IPL photofacial treatments can often meet those challenges where other methods have failed, transforming sun spots and other imperfections into youthfully fresh, evenly toned skin. In addition, Dr. Cutolo and his aesthetic staff frequently use IPL to treat acne and other skin concerns in his New York City and Staten Island patients.
Take the first step towards smooth, beautifully clear skin. Request a consultation online, or call us today at
(718) 720-9400 to schedule a visit.
A board-certified plastic surgeon in Staten Island, Dr. Louis Cutolo, Jr. is an active member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the... read on
The treatment typically lasts about 30 minutes, depending on your skin concerns. During the procedure, the device delivers pulses of photo-thermal energy to deeper layers of skin in the targeted areas. Some patients compare this sensation to a rubber band snapping against their skin.
Recovery
Although some patients experience redness and swelling right after their procedure, these side effects usually subside in just a few hours. We will provide you with detailed instructions for achieving the best results from your treatment, such as protecting your skin from the sun. Improvements continue over the next few weeks after your treatment.
Results and Benefits
Our acne treatment and facial rejuvenation patients in New York City and Staten Island typically experience noticeable improvements in concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne blemishes. In some cases, particularly for patients who want to correct the signs of aging such as wrinkles, facial hollows, and fine lines, we may recommend other complementing and enhancing treatments, such as chemical peels and a home care regimen.
IPL FAQ
Is IPL better than laser skin resurfacing?
IPL and laser skin resurfacing provide different benefits, so the best one depends on your cosmetic goals and skin concerns. Here are some differences:
IPL corrects excess brown pigment, redness, and fine lines. It is non-ablative (doesn’t harm the surface of the skin), so recovery is minimal.
Laser skin resurfacing addresses textural concerns and loss of elasticity by removing the outer layer of skin and increasing collagen production. It is ablative, so it will involve about 3 to 7 days of downtime (depending on the treatment intensity) and cause peeling.
Is it painful?
Each pulse of light energy feels similar to a rubber band snapping on the skin. We can treat the skin with numbing cream before the treatment to minimize any discomfort.
Are there any side effects?
For the first few hours, treated areas will look mildly sunburned and feel warm. Treated pigment darkens and looks like coffee grounds or pepper on the surface of the skin, then sloughs off within about a week. Allow this “peppering” to slough off naturally; picking and peeling can create discoloration or scarring.
How many treatments are needed to get the best results?
Most patients benefit from an initial series of 3 to 5 treatments, each spaced about a month apart.
When will I notice my results after treatment?
Results develop gradually as brown spots slough off, redness fades, and new collagen forms. Patients usually notice a difference within a month that improves with additional treatments.
How long will my results last?
Results last several months to a year with proper at-home skincare and sun protection.