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IPL Photo-Rejuvenation (Photo-Facial)
(Information provided by Lorrie Klein, M.D)

For Sun Damage, Skin Discoloration & Improvement of Skin Texture

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology, also known as a Photo-Facial, can successfully treat:

• Brown spots (age spots, liver spots) and pigmentation
• Photo-Aging (rough texture, red and brown discolorations)
• Face veins (telangiectasias)
• Redness and brown mottled pigmentation on the face, neck, chest, arms and hands
• Rosacea
• Actinic keratoses (pre-cancers) and warts

IPL will also improve skin tone and texture, resulting in more vibrant, radiant skin.

Photo-rejuvenation using IPL is a non-invasive treatment that can treat skin damage without disruption of the skin’s surface, hence, “no down time.” Several treatments (four to six) are usually necessary and are typically performed 3-4 weeks apart.

IPL is like a laser, but it works with multiple wavelengths instead of just one, which is how lasers work.Lum 1 is the most powerful, state-of-the-art, advanced IPL technology available. Because of this advanced technology, better results and fewer treatments are expected than with other IPL devices.

More aggressive IPL treatments at higher power levels are available that produce results sooner (2-4 treatments) but may produce some temporary crusting and/or bruising of the skin. Microdermabrasion can be performed just prior to your treatment to enhance your results. Levulan Boost may also be recommended for maximized results with fewer treatments. This requires the application of Levulan before your treatment, a potent photo-sensitizer. Blue Light with Levulan can also be combined with IPL treatments for even better results. Depending on your lifestyle (and social calendar), some or all of these treatments may be used.

Other treatments can also be scheduled between IPL sessions. To maximally reduce redness, rosacea and face veins, V-Beam laser alternating with IPL may be recommended. For enhanced facial rejuvenation and wrinkle smoothing, CoolTouch laser is recommended between IPL treatments. IPL alternating with SmoothBeam laser sessions can reduce redness and scarring, and clear acne. Microdermabrasion can also be scheduled between IPL visits for faster removal of brown pigmentation. Typically these treatments alternate with IPL visits every 2 weeks. IPL Photo-rejuvenation enhances overall cosmetic improvement when used with Botox, Restylane and Perlane, Sculptra, Aptos Thread Lift and other cosmetic procedures.

Treatments are well tolerated and usually do not require an anesthetic. You will feel some stinging, like the snapping of a rubber band, and some burning, like a sunburn. Treatments take 20 minutes or less.

Preparation before your treatment:

• You must not be tan on the treated areas! Avoid self-tanners for 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
• The treated area(s) must be clean, without makeup.

What to expect after your treatment:

After IPL your skin will appear red for up to several hours. You may also develop a brown, freckled appearance, which looks like “coffee grinds”. This occurs in areas of brown pigmentation and can last several days to a week. If Levulan or higher power levels have enhanced your treatment, crusting, redness and bruising may occur.

© Copyright 2005 Lorrie Klein, M.D . No unauthorized duplication without written consent.

Disclaimer: The above information is presented for educational purposes only. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products mentioned are not intended or effective for the treatment or prevention of any disease. Consult your physician for all your health needs.

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