IPL

What Is IPL?

At Shape the Wave in Gurnee, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a form of photorejuvenation which uses a technology called flashlamp to produce high intensity light over broad spectrum visible and infrared wavelengths. IPL devices contain filters that select the desired range.

For our photofacial patients, IPL is used to treat many skin conditions including rosacea, acne, sun damage, pigmented lesions and other skin discoloration issues. IPL has been a valued tool in aesthetics to even out skin tone for over a decade.

At Shape the Wave in Gurnee, we use the Morpheus8 device for IPL and laser treatments. Morpheus8 is the state of the art in the technology. This device supports personalized settings through the ‘Advanced Mode’, which consists of specific light pulse parameters (number of pulses, pulse deviation, pulse delay) and light energy (fluency). A complete medical history with accurate skin typing of the patient will produce optimal results while avoiding any adverse reactions.

Schedule your consultation with us today to discover the best solution for your skin!

How Does a IPL Work?

IPL Photofacial utilizes Intense Pulsed Light for a gentle treatment that is safe, painless, and requires no significant recovery time. IPL delivers light through a crystal head into the skin to target the undesirable tissue, and leaves the surrounding tissue unharmed. The procedure consists of raising the temperature of the targeted area high enough to damage the lesion cells, without damaging the epidermis and surrounding tissue. The process is gradual and, therefore, more gentle than traditional laser therapies.

Am I a Good Candidate for IPL?

Photofacials are most effective to even out skin tone and work on pigmentation (specifically brown and red) in a process called selective photothermolysis. IPL Photofacial treats many skin conditions including:

– Rosacea
– Age spots (liver spots)
– Enlarged pores
– Visible blood vessels
– Unwanted freckles
– Sun damage

IPL Recovery

There is no downtime with IPL photofacial treatments, but you will have some mild redness for a day and brown spots will appear somewhat darker for a few days before flaking off. During your initial consultation, Dr. Tack will evaluate your unique needs and explain the procedure in detail. You will have the opportunity to view before and after photos, so that you will know what to expect from the treatment. After your IPL treatment Dr. Tack will instruct you on the best techniques to care for your skin to maintain your new healthy look.