What is a Photofacial?
Also referred to as photorejuvenation, photofacials are a non-invasive, transformative treatment that utilizes Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to restore youthfulness to the skin by improving the tone and texture, and correcting many effects of photo-aging. IPL delivers high intensity pulses of broadband light deep into the dermis, leaving the epidermis untouched. IPL is non-ablative, which means that it does not damage the surface of the skin, and most regular activities can typically be resumed immediately following treatment—hence it’s nickname “the lunchtime facial”.

Benefits of IPL/Photofacials ~

• Lightens/eliminates skin discoloration, including sun damage, hyperpigmentation

• Reduces/eliminates redness, blotchiness

• Stimulates collagen production, therefore, 

  • Improves the skin’s texture, making it more supple & smooth

  • Reduces pore size

  • Minimizes fine lines & wrinkles

How does it work?
Photofacials, as well as treatment of individual pigmented and vascular lesions, work similarly to treatments for hair removal. For pigmentation, the light emitted by the hand piece targets the melanin in the skin (e.g. sun and age spots), creating heat. The heat breaks down the pigmentation into very small particles, which then either lift to the surface of the skin and scab off, or are absorbed into the body and filtered by the lymphatic system. For vascular lesions, the light targets oxyhemoglobin in the vein, which coagulates the blood. Following the coagulation, the vein breaks into particles, which are filtered by the lymphatic system. 

Am I a candidate for Photofacials &/or Individual Lesion Treatments?
We are happy to provide complimentary consultations to see if IPL treatments are appropriate and/or the best choice for you. While IPL treatments are safe and non-invasive, there are a number of conditions for which it is contraindicated, or incompatible. 

On the whole, the best candidates are those with white, untanned skin that is still somewhat elastic. IPL does improve fine line & wrinkle depth, and it can eliminate hyperpigmentation, but it is important for clients to have realistic expectations. For those with deep wrinkles and/or severe acnes scars who wish to have those conditions treated fully, other, more aggressive treatments may be more appropriate.

People with tanned or naturally dark skin, or anyone using sunless- or self-tanning products are generally not good candidates for IPL as changes in pigmentation may occur after treatment. Anyone using Accutane should wait six months after stopping the medication before receiving IPL. We also choose to postpone IPL and laser treatments until post-pregnancy. If you have a seizure disorder or history of light-induced seizures, you are likely not an appropriate candidate for IPL. 

Please feel free to call to set up a complimentary consultation to see if IPL treatments are appropriate for you. 

What can I expect from a treatment?
During your session, your therapist will move the handpiece over your skin, pulsing it so the light targets the entire treatment area. With each pulse, you will notice a flashing light, an audible tone and a mild sensation, likened to the snap of a rubber band, on the skin. Of course, all treatments will be provided by a fully licensed, certified, insured and experienced therapist. 

How many treatments will I need?
Vascular lesions typically require just 1 to 3 treatments spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart. Pigmented lesions often require 3 to 5 treatments and can be performed 3 to 4 weeks apart. Photofacials also require a series of 3 to 5 treatments to achieve desired results and are generally spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. Depending on the amount and depth of your pigmentation, and your dedication to sun protection, followup treatments (beyond your initial series of treatments) may be necessary once or twice a year.

What is the cost?
Individual Lesions: $50 each
Photofacials: $250 per session
Package discounts available

What can I expect after a treatment?
Pigmentation may darken, which is good! Eventually, usually within 2 to 3 weeks, it may crust and slough off. The treatment goal of vascular lesions is for a change in color and/or a visible shrinking of the vessel with minimal reaction in the surrounding skin. The skin over the vessel may appear red or raised temporarily, similar to a scratch mark.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines

• Avoid strong sun exposure and self- or sunless-tanning products for two weeks prior to treatment.

• If you are using strong skincare products on the treatment area at home, please discontinue at least one week prior to your IPL treatment. 

Post-Treatment Guidelines

• For at least two weeks, be extra diligent about sunscreen, and make sure what you are using is broad spectrum and contains both UVA and UVB protection. This is to avoid potential color changes in the skin.

• A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected with all IPL treatments. This usually lasts up to 24 hours but can persist up to 72 hours. 

• Mild swelling and/or redness may also be present, but usually resolves in 2 to 3 days. You may choose to cool the area with a cold compress or ice pack. 

• If you experience redness (which is normal), we recommend you avoid the following until the redness subsides: 

  • Applying makeup or skincare product to the affected area

  • Swimming, especially in pools with chemicals, such as chlorine

  • Hot tubs or jacuzzis

  • Activities that cause excessive perspiration

  • Sun exposure to treated areas

• Bathe or shower as usual but be mindful that treated areas may be temperature sensitive.

• Pat your skin dry, do not rub your skin as it is likely to be sensitive. 

• Your pigmented lesion may progress to scabs and will start to flake off within 1-3 weeks. Do not pick or scratch.