IPL Photo-rejuvenation
Brighter, clearer, more even-looking skin with targeted light therapy.
IPL Photo-rejuvenation is a non-invasive light-based treatment used to improve skin tone, texture, pigmentation, sun damage, redness, and visible blood vessels. It also supports collagen stimulation, helping the skin appear clearer, brighter, and more refined over time.
Targets pigment and redness
Designed to improve sun damage, pigmentation, redness, and visible blood vessels.
Non-invasive treatment
Light pulses are delivered through a handheld device without surgery or extended downtime.
Series-based improvement
Treatments are typically done as a course to achieve the best overall result.
Procedure info
About the treatment
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It is a non-invasive light-based treatment used to improve skin tone and texture by targeting pigmentation, sun damage, redness, and visible vessels, while also supporting collagen stimulation for a brighter and more even complexion.
Key benefits
- May improve pigmentation and sun-damaged skin.
- Can reduce redness and visible blood vessels.
- Helps support a brighter, clearer complexion.
- Stimulates collagen for ongoing skin quality improvement.
What IPL Photo-rejuvenation may help address
This treatment is commonly selected for concerns linked to uneven tone, pigment change, and visible redness.
How to prepare before treatment
A few simple precautions help improve safety and treatment results.
Avoid sun and tanning
Avoid sun exposure, tanning, and self-tanners for at least 2 weeks before treatment, and use SPF 30–50 daily.
Pause strong skincare
Stop retinoids, retinol, tretinoin, and strong exfoliating products 3–5 days before treatment.
Avoid aggressive procedures
Avoid chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and similar skin treatments for 1–2 weeks beforehand.
Arrive with clean skin
The treatment area should be free of makeup, lotions, perfumes, and deodorants on the day.
Your appointment journey
IPL treatment is performed using a handheld device that delivers pulses of light to the skin. A cooling gel is typically applied to improve comfort and protect the skin during the procedure.
Assessment & screening
Your provider reviews your skin, medications, recent procedures, and any factors that may affect suitability.
Cooling gel application
A cooling gel is usually applied to increase comfort and help protect the skin.
Light-based treatment
Pulses of light are delivered to the skin. Many people describe the sensation as a warm snap like a small elastic band.
Quick in-clinic session
Treatment time usually ranges from about 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area treated.
What to expect afterwards
After treatment, the skin may look mildly red and feel warm, similar to light sunburn. Pigmented spots can temporarily darken and take on a coffee-ground appearance before gradually flaking away over the following days. The skin may also feel dry, tight, or slightly rough for a short time.
Post-treatment care
Careful aftercare helps protect the skin and supports an even recovery.
Hydrate and protect
Apply a gentle moisturiser regularly and use SPF 30–50 daily while avoiding direct sun exposure.
Avoid heat for 24–48 hours
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, and intense exercise for the first 24–48 hours.
Pause active skincare
Avoid exfoliating products, retinoids, and other active ingredients for 5–7 days after treatment.
Let pigment lift naturally
Do not pick, scratch, or remove darkened pigment prematurely. Allow it to flake away naturally.
Possible side effects and risks
Most reactions are temporary, but informed consent remains essential.
- Temporary redness and swelling.
- Darkening of pigmented lesions before they fade.
- Temporary brown mottling or patchy pigmentation.
- Temporary treatment lines or stripes that may need a touch-up.
- Skin sensitivity or dryness.
- Rarely: blistering, bruising, infection, or pigmentation changes.
When IPL may not be suitable
Your doctor should assess these before treatment goes ahead.
- Recent sunburn or significant tanning.
- Use of photo-sensitising medications.
- Active infection, inflammation, or open wounds in the area.
- Certain suspicious lesions or skin cancers in the treatment area.
- Recent isotretinoin use within the past 6–12 months.
- Some very dark skin types where pigment risk may be higher.
Number of treatments
IPL Photo-rejuvenation is typically performed as a course of treatments rather than a once-off session. A common plan is 1 to 6 treatments spaced about 3 to 4 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions sometimes recommended depending on the concern being treated and your long-term goals.
Frequently asked questions
Tap a question to expand.
What does IPL Photo-rejuvenation treat?
IPL is used to improve pigmentation, sun damage, redness, visible blood vessels, and overall skin tone and texture.
What does the treatment feel like?
Most people describe it as a warm snapping sensation, similar to a small elastic band against the skin.
How long does an appointment take?
Treatment time usually ranges from around 20 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the area treated.
What happens to pigment after treatment?
Pigmented spots may darken and develop a coffee-ground appearance before gradually flaking off over 5 to 10 days.
When can I wear makeup again?
Makeup can usually be applied after 24 hours, provided the skin is intact and not irritated.
How many sessions will I need?
A treatment course typically ranges from 1 to 6 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, depending on your needs.
What should I tell the clinic before treatment?
Let your doctor know if you are taking photo-sensitising medications or antibiotics, have active skin infections, cold sores, open wounds, recent procedures, or a history of herpes simplex.
When should I contact the clinic after treatment?
Contact the clinic if you experience excessive swelling, blistering, severe pain, signs of infection, or any reaction that concerns you.
Thinking about IPL Photo-rejuvenation?
Chat to us and we’ll help you understand whether IPL is suitable for your skin goals and how to prepare properly.