Beauty

How IPL can lighten or remove freckles

Nice woman with freckles on her face

The attractive clusters of pigmented patches on the skin known as freckles may give our faces a one-of-a-kind look. Freckles are a wonderful trait for some individuals, but they may make others feel insecure or wish they had a more even skin tone. Fortunately, there are effective options available, and one of them is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, for those who fall into the latter type.

What causes freckles?

Freckles are small, flat, pigmented skin spots on the arms, shoulders, and face. They result from melanin overproduction, which colors eyes, hair, and skin. People with plenty of melanocytes get freckles from sunlight and UV radiation. Fair-skinned, light-haired, and eye-colored people have more freckles. Small, varied colors, dispersion, and sunshine response are their main characteristics. Freckles are different from sunspots, moles, and other pigmented skin issues, so if they alter size, form, or color, contact a dermatologist. Understanding freckle origins and appearance might help IPL patients attain a more even and radiant complexion.

How IPL removes freckles?

Increasingly common intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment may lessen or eradicate freckles. IPL targets excess melanin to reduce freckles using a broad spectrum of light wavelengths.

  • IPL treatment targets extra melanin with a wide range of light wavelengths to lighten freckles or get rid of them.
  • The process works by selective photo thermolysis, which means that the melanin pigment takes in light energy from the IPL machine.
  • The IPL machine goes after melanin, the pigment that causes freckles, and destroys both freckles and healthy skin.
  • The melanin receives the light energy and breaks down, disappearing.
  • When the body’s defense system breaks down and gets rid of broken melanin, freckles fade or go away completely.
  • IPL treatment may increase the production of collagen in the skin, which can improve its tone, structure, and stiffness.
  • When done by a professional, IPL treatment is usually thought to be a safe and painless procedure.
Woman during a laser rejuvenation treatment with IPL

Woman during a laser rejuvenation treatment with IPL

IPL vs. other freckle removal methods

Several procedures may remove freckles. Each method has benefits, downsides, and success rates. To compare Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy to other common freckle removal methods, here are some:

Topical creams and lotions:

  • Hydroquinone, retinoids, and vitamin C topical creams and lotions are available over-the-counter or by prescription.
  • Pros: Safe, simple, and attainable at home. Lotions may progressively remove flecks.
  • Cons: It may take time to work. Creams don’t work well on freckles, especially pigmented ones.

Chemical peels:

  • Applying a solution of acids (e.g., trichloroacetic acid or glycolic acid) to the skin removes the outer layer.
  • Pros: Reduces freckles and improves skin tone and texture. Recovery is fast.
  • Cons: Deep or stubborn freckles may not respond to chemical peels. Maybe many sessions are required. Possible skin reddening, irritation, and sensitivity.

laser treatment:

  • Lasers target freckles to eliminate excess melanin.
  • Pros: Effective freckle targeting, customized therapy. Eliminate or lighten freckles significantly.
  • Cons: Laser treatments may need recovery. Possible side effects include redness, edema, and temporary hyperpigmentation. Warning: this product may irritate skin.
Rejuvenation procedure with IPL treatment on a woman's face

Rejuvenation procedure with IPL treatment on a woman’s face

IPL in Vancouver

Ready to reveal the celebrity in you? Visit Celebrity Laser & Skin Care, your premier destination for high-quality laser and skin care treatments in North Vancouver. With a wide range of services, including laser hair removal, BOTOX injections, body shaping, skin tightening, and more, we have the solutions to help you achieve radiant beauty.