When Light is Good for Your Skin

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Enlarged pores. Acne scars. Acne. Spider veins on the face. Spots. Oh, the spots! Do any of these problems greet you when you look in the mirror? If so, you’re not alone. These are some of the common signs of cosmetic imperfections that most people develop at some point. They are partially related to aging and the loss of collagen. Mostly, though, they are effects of UV exposure.

UV is ultraviolet light. It is the many wavelengths of light that exist in sunshine. These wavelengths of light can be intensely damaging to the skin. Interestingly, though, the long-term effects of UV exposure (tanning beds count) don’t show up right away. They develop slowly in the deeper layers of the skin and take years to make their way to the surface. If what is called photodamage has now surfaced on your skin, there is no time like the present to see what an innovative light treatment can do.

Wavelengths of light to correct sun damage?

This may sound counterintuitive to use light in the treatment of photodamage, which is technically damaged caused by light. As unproductive as this might sound, it’s actually a genius idea that works wonderfully. The procedure that is used to correct sun damage is called a photofacial. It is also known as IPL, or intense pulsed light. This is not a laser treatment. Lasers use singular wavelengths of light in one or multiple beams. IPL uses one particular wavelength and delivers energy in pulses. Lasers affect the epidermis with mild to moderate thermal energy. Sometimes, this can cause blistering and peeling. IPL penetrates beyond the epidermis to stimulate changes in the dermis, where collagen is produced. Targeting this layer of the skin, IPL treatment draws hidden imperfections to the surface and dismantles those that are already there.

After a Photofacial

Following photofacial treatment, patients may notice that their skin is slightly red. Minor swelling also sometimes occurs. These typically fade within hours. After a few days, though, spots that were on the epidermis look darker. These will gradually flake and fall away, leaving the skin brighter and smoother.

Get your healthy glow back with IPL treatment in our Campbell, CA office. Call (408) 559-4700 to schedule your visit.