IPL Acne Spot Treatment: Brighten Post-Acne Marks and Even Your Skin Tone

Dark spots and discoloration often remain even after acne has fully healed. These marks, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), often appear as purplish, red, or dark blue spots on the cheeks, chin, or forehead. While they’re not scars, they can feel just as stubborn and confidence-shaking.

At Metodica Med Spa, we specialize in helping clients move past this phase — transforming skin that’s recovering from acne into a smoother, brighter, and more even-toned complexion. One of the most effective methods we use is IPL phototherapy, performed on the state-of-the-art M22 platform by Lumenis.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to target pigmentation, redness, and vascular lesions. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, IPL emits multiple wavelengths, allowing it to treat concerns at various depths.

Light energy is absorbed by melanin and hemoglobin, causing these pigments to break down and rise to the surface, where they gradually flake off. Over time, this leads to a more even tone and brighter complexion.

Post-acne marks are usually the result of:

• Excess melanin, leading to dark spots

• Broken blood vessels, causing redness

IPL Treats Both Factors Simultaneously:

• Targets melanin for natural exfoliation

• Destroys visible vessels to reduce redness

• Calms inflammation and helps regulate oil production

IPL provides multifaceted results in one session:

• Fades red, purple, and brown marks

• Reduces redness

• Minimizes capillaries

• Calms active inflammation

• Enhances texture

• Brightens overall tone

Unlike topicals that take months, IPL delivers results in a few sessions and suits most skin types, including sensitive skin.

At Metodica, we use the M22 by Lumenis — trusted by dermatologists worldwide. It features Optimal Pulse Technology™ for precise and consistent light delivery. The M22 device and all treatment protocols we use are FDA-approved, ensuring the highest standards of safety and clinical effectiveness.

Key Advantages:

• Custom wavelengths for different pigments and skin tones

• Short pulses for sensitive skin

• Sapphire cooling tip for comfort

• Treats both red and brown discoloration

• Effective at all stages of post-acne pigmentation

1. Consultation. Skin type, pigmentation, and acne history assessed. We also perform a professional skin analysis using the VISIA diagnostic system to determine the number and depth of pigmentation and visible blood vessels.

2. Preparation. Skin is cleansed and cooling gel is applied

3. Treatment. IPL handpiece pulses light across target areas

4. Aftercare. Soothing products are applied, and post-care instructions are given. If your session takes place during the daytime, we can also apply a protective SPF cream to shield your skin from UV exposure.

The full procedure takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on the size and location of the affected areas.

For best results, a series of 3–5 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart, is recommended. The number depends on:

• Pigmentation depth

• Discoloration severity

• Skin type and healing response

Immediately after treatment:

• Mild redness (like a sunburn)

• Temporary darkening of spots

• Slight warmth or tightness

Flaking may start 3–5 days later as skin exfoliates naturally.

A multi-modal approach often delivers the best results:

• Chemical peels: accelerate exfoliation

• Hyaluronic acid injections: improve hydration and repair

• Resurfacing acne scars: if texture issues accompany discoloration

Combining methods can improve tone and texture for radiant skin.

It’s crucial to know the difference between post-acne marks and true acne scars so you can choose the right treatment:

• Post-acne marks (hyperpigmentation and redness): Flat spots caused by inflammation, vascular changes, and excess melanin. They respond well to IPL treatment.

• Acne scars (textural changes): Depressions, pitted areas, or raised tissue caused by deeper skin damage. These require treatments like laser therapy or RF microneedling.

If your skin tone is uneven and you’re dealing with spots rather than indents, IPL photofacial is likely your best first step.