IPL is usually a quick and painless way to remove freckles.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a treatment that uses powerful broad-spectrum light to destroy irregular melanin and stimulate collagen production. There are pros and cons associated with using IPL for freckles. The main advantage is that in many cases IPL is effective in removing freckles safely, quickly and almost painlessly. However, some patients experience blistering, bleeding, scarring, hypopigmentation, and hyperpigmentation as a result of IPL. To ensure positive results, patients should see a doctor to determine if they are good candidates for this treatment.
Patients should discuss all options with their doctor before deciding if IPL is right for them.
There are two main causes of freckles: sun damage and genetics. Both of these factors affect the number, severity, and types of freckles a person develops. IPL removes freckles by destroying the melanin cells that make these spots stand out from the surrounding skin. When using a freckle laser, the doctor will direct pulses of light onto the freckled area. The focused light penetrates the dermis and destroys some of the pigmented cells.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a treatment that uses powerful broad-spectrum light to destroy irregular melanin and stimulate collagen production.
One of the main benefits of using ILP for freckles is that it is an effective way to even out skin tone. In many cases, one treatment is enough to make a noticeable difference to the skin. People with large areas of dark freckles may need three to five treatments before achieving desired results. Still, many patients find that the end result is worth the additional treatment sessions. The use of IPL for freckles generally produces faster and more positive results than those obtained with skin lightening creams and other treatments.
Sun exposure can cause tan, brown, or rusty spots on the skin.
Another benefit is that IPL is non-invasive. Although some patients may find the treatment uncomfortable, IPL is usually not painful. After treatment, a person’s skin may be slightly red, swollen, and irritated. Still, in most cases, patients can return to work immediately after treatment. Limited recovery time and mild side effects are considered by many to be significant benefits.
While there are many benefits to using IPL for freckles, there are also downsides. In rare cases, patients have experienced blistering, scarring, and bleeding as a result of IPL. To decrease the risk of these side effects, patients should choose a doctor experienced in IPL freckle removal.
Using IPL for freckles can also lead to hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation. These side effects usually appear in patients with dark skin tones. Because IPL lasers are attracted to the melanin in the skin, it can be difficult to use a freckle laser without removing excess melanin. To avoid unwanted side effects, patients should consider whether they are good candidates for IPL before deciding to undergo the treatment.
Another disadvantage of using IPL for freckles is the cost. IPL can be expensive, especially since many patients must undergo multiple treatments. While bleaching creams and other treatments are generally less effective, they are a cheaper option for lightening freckles. To determine if IPL is the best treatment option, patients should consider all of their options before choosing IPL.