What's the difference between IPL treatment and a Photo Facial?

In most cases, “Photo Facial” treatments are the same as “IPL” treatments. The trademarked name “PhotoFacial™” refers to the use of intense pulsed light in a procedure developed by Patrick Bitter, Sr., MD, of Los Gatos, CA.

“IPL,” which stands for Intense Pulsed Light, is also known as BBL or Broad Band Light. IPL is mainly used to treat “brown spots”, and “red spots.” These “brown spots” and “red spots” are usually due to sun exposure over time.

When IPL is used, “brown spots” get browner temporarily, then rise to the surface and flake off in roughly 10 days. “Brown spots” are usually made of pigment just below the skin surface. “Red spots” are usually made up of small blood vessels deeper in the skin. The blood vessels in the “red spots” close up after IPL treatments, and then are broken down over several weeks time.

Usually several IPL treatments are needed for best results. I usually space 4 treatments about 2 to 4 weeks apart in my office. If you are looking to decrease “red and brown spots”, discuss this with a medical doctor who is experienced in Intense Pulsed Light treatments.