Is IPL the same as laser?

IPL uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, whereas laser uses a single focused wavelength. Both can address skin tone concerns, but they differ in precision, depth, and applications. Dr. Honrado will recommend the most appropriate technology for your specific concern.

How many IPL sessions are needed?

Most patients benefit from a series of 3–5 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart for optimal improvement in pigmentation and redness. Maintenance treatments may be recommended annually.

Is IPL safe for all skin tones?

IPL is most appropriate for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III). In darker skin tones, the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation is elevated and alternative technologies may be more appropriate. A thorough skin assessment is required before treatment.

Is there any downtime?

Downtime is minimal. Treated brown spots temporarily darken before flaking off over 1–2 weeks. Redness from vascular treatment resolves within hours. Most patients return to normal activities the same day.

HomeTreatmentsIPL Photofacial

Intense Pulsed Light

IPL Photofacial

“Broad-spectrum light therapy for tone, pigment, and vascular concerns”

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy uses broad-spectrum light delivered in precise pulses to target pigmentation irregularities, redness, and vascular lesions. It is a versatile, low-downtime treatment for improving overall skin tone and addressing sun damage.

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Treatment Overview

Session Time

Sessions take 30–45 minutes. A cooling gel is applied to the skin. No anesthesia is typically required. Most patients describe the sensation as a rubber band snap.

Downtime

Minimal. Treated brown spots may temporarily darken ("coffee grounds" appearance) and flake off within 7–14 days. Redness resolves within hours to a day.

Results Timeline

Pigmented lesions show improvement over 2–4 weeks as the treated pigment flakes away. Optimal results are typically seen after a series of 3–5 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart.

Performing Physician

Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Beverly Hills · Century City

What It Does

IPL energy is selectively absorbed by melanin (pigment) and oxyhemoglobin (in blood vessels), causing targeted destruction of pigmented cells and vascular structures without significant damage to surrounding tissue. It may address brown spots, age spots, freckles, redness, broken capillaries, rosacea flushing, and overall uneven skin tone.

How It Works

A handheld IPL device delivers high-intensity broad-spectrum light pulses through a crystal filter. The energy is absorbed by chromophores (melanin and hemoglobin) in the skin, heating and breaking down targeted structures. The skin then eliminates the degraded pigment and closes down treated vessels over the following weeks.

Concerns Addressed

What IPL Photofacial May Address

Brown spots and age spots (solar lentigines)

Freckles

Redness and facial flushing

Rosacea

Broken capillaries (telangiectasias)

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Uneven skin tone

Sun damage

The Process

What to Expect

Consultation

Skin type, Fitzpatrick classification, and concerns are assessed to determine appropriate IPL parameters and candidacy.

Preparation

Cooling gel is applied. Protective eye shields are worn. Makeup and products are removed from the treatment area.

Treatment

The IPL handpiece is passed over the skin in overlapping pulses. Patients feel a brief flash of heat with each pulse.

Post-Treatment

SPF is applied immediately. Strict sun avoidance is required. Makeup can typically be worn the following day.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related Treatments

Laser Skin Resurfacing Chemical Peels HydraFacial

Next Step

Ready to learn if IPL Photofacial is right for you?

A formal consultation with Dr. Honrado allows for personalized assessment of your anatomy and goals.

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Content reviewed by Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S. · 2026-05-16

Dr. Carlo Honrado