Beauty

IPL vs Fraxel: Gentle skin resurfacing with minimal downtime

Beautician doing IPL treatment for female client

If you’re thinking about resurfacing your skin and improving its texture, you’ve probably come across these regularly utilized treatment options. Both Fraxel and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) are regarded as good treatments for producing smoother, more youthful-looking skin; nevertheless, they differ in both technique and outcomes.

What is Fraxel skin resurfacing treatment?

A non-invasive laser procedure called Fraxel Skin Resurfacing tackles certain skin problems such as wrinkles, fine lines, scars from acne, radiation damage, and uneven skin tone. It promotes collagen formation and the growth of healthy skin cells by treating only a portion of the epidermis at a time using fractional laser technology. All skin tones, including fair and darker complexions, can benefit from Fraxel. Topical anesthetic or cooling methods might be used to alleviate discomfort during the usually 30- to 1-hour operation. For best results, utilize sunscreen after treatment and wait a few weeks between sessions.

The differences in IPL vs Fraxel treatment

The following is a list of the differences between IPL and Fraxel treatments:

  • Technology: IPL treatment uses broad-spectrum light energy, whereas Fraxel uses fractional laser technology.
  • Treatment depth: IPL generally targets the epidermis, whereas Fraxel can reach deeper into the dermis.
  • Precision: Fraxel enables for more exact targeting of specific regions, whilst IPL delivers a more comprehensive overall skin regeneration.
  • Downtime: IPL requires little downtime, however, Fraxel treatments often require a lengthier recovery period.
  • Treatment plan: IPL takes numerous treatments, whereas Fraxel usually requires less.
  • Skin Issues: IPL is beneficial for surface-level difficulties, whilst Fraxel is appropriate for more serious issues such as wrinkles and acne scars.

Slim young woman getting IPL treatment

Downtime considerations: Recovering from IPL and Fraxel treatments

Here is what you need to know about the downtime for IPL and Fraxel treatments:

Downtime in the IPL

  • Minimal downtime allows for a rapid return to routine activity.
  • Redness, swelling, and slight pain are temporary side effects.
  • Cosmetics and skincare goods may face limitations.
  • Sun protection is essential for avoiding responses or consequences.

Downtime for Fraxel

  • Recovery time is longer as compared to IPL.
  • Redness, swelling, and potential peeling or flaking are all possible side effects.
  • Sun protection and sun avoidance are critical.
  • Makeup and skincare product restrictions may be recommended.
  • Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your clinician.

Choosing the right skin resurfacing method: IPL or Fraxel?

A condensed version of the factors to think about while deciding between Fraxel and IPL for skin resurfacing is as follows:

  • Skin issues: Assess individual concerns; Fraxel for more profound problems, and IPL for more superficial ones. IPL focuses on the outer dermal layers, whereas Fraxel penetrates deeper into the skin.
  • Targeting accuracy vs. general rejuvenation: Fraxel allows for pinpoint accuracy, whereas IPL gives more comprehensive rejuvenation.
  • Downtime: Compared to Fraxel, which has a lengthier recovery period, IPL has a much shorter downtime.
  • Duration of treatment: Fraxel needs fewer sessions but a longer total treatment time than IPL.

IPL treatment getting done in a beauty salon

Skin Care in Vancouver

At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care in North Vancouver, we offer various beauty and aesthetic treatments, including laser hair removal, acne treatments, skin tightening, and body contouring. Our skilled staff is committed to offering high-quality, individualized care in a variety of aesthetic procedures, including but not limited to laser hair removal, acne treatments, skin tightening, and body contouring.