How Does Intense Pulsed Light Work?

Specific wavelengths of light target the treatment area for outstanding results and great looking skin.

You may be wondering: how does Intense Pulsed Light work? SkinBase IPL uses cut off filters to provide a range of wavelengths. These cut off filters selectively filter out the unwanted wavelengths of light. The remaining light is then used to treat a specific structure within the skin. The structure can be melanin, blood or water in collagen.

Therefore, IPL can treat a range of conditions. This is unlike laser based therapies, that can only treat a specific condition. The system features a unique cryo-cooling handset which has an anaesthetic effect on the skin surface to provide the most comfortable experience. Therefore, SkinBase IPL is much more comfortable than most conventional methods of hair removal.

How Does Intense Pulsed Light Work?

To find out more about how IPL works, and get started on your IPL journey, find your nearest SkinBase Therapist.

Skin professionals – now you know how IPL works, get started on your IPL journey by partnering with SkinBase.

1. Client Consultation

The SkinBase™ Therapist will determine your individual needs and devise a treatment plan to achieve the results that you require. Treatments plans can vary from 6-10 treatments for hair reduction 4-6 weeks apart, to 3-4 treatments 2-3 weeks apart for IPL Advanced Treatments.

2. Shave/Cleanse Treatment Area

For hair reduction treatments, hair should be shaved 24-48 hours prior to treatment. This allows a 1-2 mm stubble, ideal for an effective treatment. The treatment area should be cleaned and dried before treatment commences. Dry, shaven and clean skin means that the light can penetrate the skin unobstructed.

3. IPL, Treat and Target

Once the area is prepped your SkinBase therapist can begin the treatment. Our unique “Cryo” cooling handset is first applied to the treatment area. This anaesthetises the area before the light treatment. Your therapist will then move over the treatment area in a grid method using the cryo and flash handsets in tandem.

4. Moisturise and Soothe with Aloe & SPF

A cooling cream or gel such as aloe vera should be applied post treatment to help cool the treated area. Sun damage can cause pigmentation and premature ageing of the skin.
After a SkinBase™ IPL treatment it is essential to protect the skin from excessive sun exposure by applying a moisturiser with an SPF. This is especially true in the summer months and for clients that are having SkinBase™ IPL to treat pigmentation. Failure to apply regular sun cream could cause the pigmentation to return.

A safe, controlled salon treatment that results in great looking skin

In the case of photorejuvenation the light energy targets the red blood cells in the blood vessels. The light passes through the skin and is absorbed by the vessel wall or pigment. This heat energy causes damage to the vessel or pigment and the body’s natural repair mechanisms take over and remove the damaged tissue. The results are fresher looking & smoother skin.

When used for hair reduction the light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair and is converted into heat. This damages the follicle making it unable to support further hair growth. The number of treatments required will vary but you should expect to see significant results within 3-6 treatments. A full course of 6 to 10 treatments may be required to achieve long lasting results. Treatments should be no more than every 3-4 weeks on each area being treated.