A woman never gives away her age, or at least she would like to think she doesn’t. With the innovative aesthetic treatments available today, men and women have numerous ways to maintain a more youthful appearance.

One of the most prevalent of all “age indicators” is hyperpigmentation. Perhaps you have noticed a few spots on your cheeks. Many people report that the problem is worse on the left side of their face. This is likely because their skin remains in the sun while they are driving. Whatever their severity, sun spots give the illusion of age. Technically, they are an indicator that your skin has been damaged by UV exposure. In addition to the cheeks, sun spots may show up on other areas of the face, and on the neck, chest, and shoulders. If you are troubled by spots, see Dr. Rosenthal for IPL therapy.

What is IPL?

IPL is a form of skin rejuvenation that utilizes light to produce the desired outcome. Intense Pulsed Light treatment engages the skin with multiple wavelengths of light, rather than one or two, which is typical of many laser treatments. This light therapy may also deliver wavelengths through special filters to address various aesthetic conditions. While the most common treatment addresses age spots or photoaging, IPL may also treat spider veins, birthmarks, and freckles. Because it is gentle and productive, IPL is also an excellent choice for general facial rejuvenation.

How does IPL Treatment work?

Targeted spots, freckles, or veins absorb the various wavelengths of light delivered by our IPL system. As this occurs, melatonin in the targeted tissue breaks apart. Over time, spots diminish and fade away. Skin cells in the surrounding area are undisturbed by the penetration of light. Treatments take less than an hour in most cases.

With IPL, you can expect:

• Minimal downtime, if any. Most patients experience very little discomfort during and after treatment.
• Skin may look and feel slightly sunburned for a short time.
• Spots will darken at first, and will then become flaky as cells slough from the skin’s surface.
• Sunscreen should be worn consistently for the month following treatment. This can create an excellent habit that will inhibit the formation of new sun spots.

You can enjoy the great outdoors without damaging your skin. Schedule your rejuvenating treatment and skin care consult at (408) 559-4700.