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Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also known as a photo facial, is a way to improve the color and texture of your skin without surgery. It can undo some of the visible damage caused by sun exposure -- called photoaging. You may notice it mostly on your face, neck, hands, or chest.
IPL may help if you have red, brown, or splotchy skin because of a health condition.
IPL vs. laser
Both IPL and laser treatments can be used to improve a variety of skin issues. The main difference is that IPL therapy is gentler on the skin and usually requires more sessions than laser therapy for comparable results. Laser treatment is more intense and recovery is longer. It can achieve more noticeable results from fewer procedures. However, unlike lasers, an IPL device sends out more than one wavelength of pulsating light. IPL can treat a range of skin conditions at the same time. Certain skin issues may respond better to IPL or laser. Your dermatologist can tell you which one is a better match for your needs.
It works best if you have pale or light brown skin. Talk to your dermatologist if you want to lessen or get rid of:
Acne
Birthmarks
Stretch marks
Liver or age spots
Broken blood vessels
Brown spots, also called liver or age spots
Dark spots from hormonal changes
Discolored skin
Fine wrinkles
Freckles
Redness from rosacea
