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What Is An IPL?

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For decades, Intense Pulse Light (IPL) treatments have been utilized to address a wide range of dermatological conditions. What sets IPL apart is its ability to deliver light energy at different wavelengths to specific layers of the skin to treat various skin issues. Over time, IPL technology has advanced, and modern IPL devices now enable more precise targeting with greater accuracy and less light scattering.

During an IPL treatment, a handheld device is used to deliver short pulses of light to the skin. The light energy is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and other discolorations. The light energy also stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that helps to keep the skin firm and smooth.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments are typically administered in a sterile office setting by a registered nurse or medical aesthetician. These treatments are considered both safe and effective, with very few side effects. Some patients may experience temporary redness and mild swelling after treatment, but these symptoms usually dissipate within a few hours to a few days.

Intense Pulse Light treatments can help with the following:

  • Skin Rejuvenation. IPL helps reduce wrinkles and facial lines.
  • This is a common condition where the skin becomes a darker tone. This can present as localized pigment (patch of darker pigmented skin), or diffuse pigment (darker pigment all over the face).
  • Rosacea. This is a chronic skin condition, which causes redness, burning, soreness, bumps, or pustules on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead.
  • Skin Damage. IPL can treat conditions related to sun-induced skin damage in a process called photorejuvenation.


Although IPL treatment can help any part of the body, the treatment will be most beneficial to the areas of skin that have had the most sun exposure. The most popular treated problem areas are the face, neck, chest, and back of the hands.

IPL is a procedure with minimal downtime and a low risk of side effects. Natural improvements to your skin will occur over a period of time and with multiple procedures. Some changes in skin color can be observed within weeks after the procedure, while changes in texture may not become apparent until months after a series of treatments. Most patients achieve optimal results after 5-6 treatments, spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments can be offered once every 2 months.

To maintain the results, sunscreen use is important and should be an integral part of your daily skincare routine. It is crucial to protect the treated area from the sun for a few weeks following each treatment in order to reach and maintain the best results.

If you are bothered by noticeable signs of aging or have a skin condition such as hyperpigmentation or rosacea, you may be a good candidate for an Intense Pulse Light treatment. If you are interested in IPL or other nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, Philosophy Of Beauty is conveniently located in Vaughan and is proud to serve Thornhill and the Greater Toronto Area. If you wonder how we can improve your confidence with our range of treatments for the face and body, call us today at 905-669-0306 and schedule a consultation.

Philosophy Of Beauty is conveniently located in North York and is proud to serve Thornhill, Vaughan and the Greater Toronto Area. If you wonder how we can help you achieve your beauty goals with our range of treatments for the face and body, call us today at 905-669-0306 and schedule a consultation.

Picture of Dinara Shakirova, RN, BScN

Dinara Shakirova, RN, BScN

Dinara Shakirova is the Founder of Philosophy of Beauty and a highly skilled Nurse Injector specializing in advanced medical aesthetics.

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