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Sun-damage has a number of manifestations on the skin, including brown and red spots. These can accumulate over years of sun exposure and tanning, and lead to patches of discoloration on the face and body. Over time, many patients begin to lament their fun in the sun, and those pigmented marks left on their face, shoulders, and body. Modern technology however, has now given us the ability to target these spots, remove sun damage and pigmentation, and rejuvenate your skin.
IPL treatments, also known as fotofacial when performed on the face, are a great option for removing or lightening sun spots on the skin in order to obtain a more even complexion. “The procedure uses a broad spectrum of light energies to target pigmented and vascular lesions in the skin,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, a board-certified Dermatologist and cosmetic expert at Sanova Dermatology. This procedure is not only effective for removing sun spots, but can also target freckles, solar lentigines, broken blood vessels, and redness caused by rosacea.
During the procedure, you will wear goggles and lay relaxed as the IPL hand piece is applied to the skin treatment area. The light emitted will draw out the unwanted pigmentation in the skin.
“As with many cosmetic skin procedures, your skin will be sensitive after IPL and patients should be liberal with their sun protection and sunscreen,” explains Dr. Hanson. You will begin to notice that spots in the treated area will darken and rise to the surface, almost resembling coffee grounds. Over the next few days, this will be pulled to the skin’s surface and crumble away.
Within just a few days, you will notice a definite reduction in the amount of sun damage on the skin. Depending on the extent of your damage, a series of treatments might be recommended. With each consecutive treatment building on the last, your skin will begin to shine and display a more and more even tone. Pairing IPL with chemical peels, skin brighteners, antioxidants and sunscreen can further assist in removing unwanted pigmentation of the skin, and improving tone and texture.
Thinking about a treatment to remove of sun damage? Sanova Dermatology can assist you in finding the right treatment for your skin! Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
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