IPL Phototherapy: An Effective Solution for 12 Skin Concerns

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses pulses of broad-spectrum light to improve skin. At Metodica Med Spa, we perform it on certified M22 Lumenis equipment, considered one of the best IPL in the world.

The main advantage of IPL is that it targets multiple skin issues at once — from vascular changes and pigmentation to acne and visible signs of aging. The skin surface remains intact, and recovery is quick and easy.

An IPL facial treatment addresses more than 12 common skin concerns. This procedure is for you if you want to:

• pigmentation removal, age spots, sun damage;
  
• acne reduction and eliminate breakouts;
  
• lighten post-acne spots;
  
• reduce rosacea, eliminate redness spots;
  
• eliminate blood vessels and broken capillaries; 
• skin firmness, skin rejuvenation.
  
  

Thanks to the comprehensive action of IPL skin treatment, this procedure is suitable not only for those with visible imperfections but also for people who want to maintain youthful, healthy skin for as long as possible.

During an IPL face treatment, light pulses target acne-causing bacteria and the blood vessels that feed inflammation. As a result, breakouts are reduced, inflammation calms down, and sebum production is normalized.

The treatment also helps lighten post-acne spots, even out skin tone, and make the complexion clearer and smoother.

Rosacea is often accompanied by redness, broken capillaries, and increased skin sensitivity. Intense pulsed light photofacial gently coagulates visible blood vessels, gradually eliminate redness spots. The skin becomes calmer, more even, and discomfort such as burning sensations is reduced.

Light from an IPL laser targets melanin, which accumulates in pigmented spots. The pigment breaks down into smaller particles, rises to the surface, and naturally exfoliates. As a result, dark spots fade, and the skin tone becomes more even and radiant.

Post-acne spots are often a mix of excess pigment and dilated vessels. IPL therapy works on both at the same time. Initially, the spots may darken slightly, but within 7–10 days they lighten, leaving the skin clearer and smoother.

Broken capillaries and spider veins can be treated effectively with pulsed light laser treatment. The light selectively heats the vessel, causing it to collapse and gradually disappear. Redness and visible blood vessels fade, and the skin looks more even.

The IPL benefits go beyond treating specific concerns. Light pulses stimulate collagen production, which improves skin elasticity, smooths fine lines, and shrink pores.

Starting IPL photofacial treatments around the age of 30, when the first signs of aging appear, is a smart investment in youthful skin. While you continue to age, your skin will look fresher and younger. For best results, one course of 4–5 sessions per year is recommended.

Intense pulsed light face treatment improves overall skin appearance:

• minimizes pores;
  
• evens out skin tone;
  
• lightens spots;
  
• smooths skin texture;
• restores natural radiance.

IPL photofacial is not only for the face. It’s also effective for rejuvenating the hands, fading sunspots on the chest, and brightening freckles in the décolleté area.

• Avoid tanning and tanning beds for 2 weeks before treatment.
  
  
• Stop using acids and retinol in your skincare routine 7 days prior.
  
  
• Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup.

1. Consultation with an aesthetic provider and skin analysis using the Visia imaging system.
   
   
2. Gentle cleansing and application of a cooling gel.
   
   
3. Test flashes to select optimal energy settings.
   
   
4. Full treatment of the target area with different filters (acne, vascular, pigmentation, etc.).
   
   
5. Application of soothing cream and SPF.
   
   

The whole process takes about 30–40 minutes.

After treatment, mild redness is common and usually fades within 3–4 hours. Slight swelling is possible and typically resolves within 1–3 days.

When treating pigmentation, recovery takes longer: spots darken first, then lighten and exfoliate within 10 days.

IPL photofacial is a course treatment. On average, 3–6 sessions are recommended, spaced 2–3 weeks apart. The exact number depends on your skin concerns and their severity.

At Metodica Med Spa, IPL treatments are performed with the M22 Lumenis system — certified equipment that ensures high efficiency and safety.

In Brooklyn, IPL treatment prices range from $300 to $650 per session. The difference in cost can be significant, and it’s important to understand why.

• Low prices may indicate that the provider is inexperienced, uses fewer flashes than necessary, or works with uncertified or poorly maintained equipment. In such cases, results may be incomplete, and patients may not even realize why.
  
  
• High prices are often tied to the provider’s reputation, advanced credentials, clinic location in a prestigious area, or added services. Sometimes this is justified, but not always — and the results may be the same as at a lower price point.
  
  

That’s why it’s important not to base your decision solely on price. Instead, focus on the provider’s expertise and the equipment used for your IPL facial treatment.