Skin Club by DermaGenesis

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is a patented technology developed to treat a wide range of cosmetic skin conditions without causing epidermal injury. IPL treatment distributes light energy as heat beneath the skin's layers without affecting the outer layers of the skin (the epidermis). The IPL energy, based on the selected treatment parameters, specifically affects only the targeted cells. This is called the principle of "Selective Photothermolysis". Simply put, this theory suggests that different ‘colored’ targets (chromophore) within the skin for example, melanin (black), hemoglobin (red), etc. preferentially and selectively absorb light of different wavelengths that matches the `color' of the target chromophore. The light absorbed is converted into heat in these targets but rapidly dissipates by conduction and radiation into the surrounding tissues. A clinical effect (Laser - Tissue interaction) occurs when the chromophore reaches a critical temperature to undergo a physical change, and is seen only when the rate of active heating of the target is more rapid than the rate of passive cooling.

The treatment parameters (wavelength and energy level) of IPL are selected based on the skin type for selective weakening of the melanocytes (pigment cells) and to improve skin texture & complexion.example, 540 nm - 560 nm wavelengths is used to treat epidermal pigmentation, erythematous acne, spider veins and skin rejuvenation; while wavelength of 580 nm - 640 nm is used for dermal pigmentation such a melasma. Wavelength of 700 nm is used for hair removal.

IPL treatments are safe and have no downtime and patients can resume their activities immediately. IPL is the treatment of choice to treat acne rosacea, pigmentation (melasma, freckles, lentiges and UV dyschromia), open pores, dull texture & complexion, post acne erythema (redness), spider veins and photo aged skin; for both the face and body. It is also very popular for face, neck and décolleté rejuvenation. While the procedure should not hurt, some may experience a sensation similar to rubber band snapping on the skin.

The procedure

IPL is a well-tolerated and safe procedure. A layer of cold gel is applied onto the skin. This gel keeps the epidermis cool while the heat is distributed into the dermis. An anaesthetic cream can be applied to make the treatment more comfortable.
Immediately after the treatment the skin will appear slightly red and in rare cases, minimally swollen. There may be few microscopic dots on the treated area, which will develop into fine scabs within a day, or two. The scabs will disappear within 3 - 4 days; after which the skin appears smoother and clearer. The entire recovery process takes about 3 - 5 days.
An individual may require 4 – 7 treatments done once in 2 - 3 weeks. The actual number of treatment would depend on the severity of the skin condition, skin type and lifestyle. Upon achieving the desired results, the treatment can be continued for a prolonged duration at regular intervals of 3 - 5 weeks to maintain a healthier, radiant looking skin and to prevent the recurrence of the initial condition.
There is no restriction of daily activities after the treatment. However, it is advisable to apply more moisturizer and sun block to soothe the skin and stay away from excessive sun exposure during the recovery period.

IPL results

The effects of IPL are normally noticeable after few treatments. The initial concern, such as pigmentation, acne, scars, open pores, spider veins, etc may not be eliminated completely in the first few treatments, but the skin will appear healthier, radiant and clearer after few treatments. Results are even better if sun exposure, smoking and stress are kept to a minimum. The results may last for months to a year or two; however, the longevity of IPL effects depends on the skin condition, skin type and lifestyle.

IPL safety, risks and side effects

The common side effects are pain, itching, redness and / or swelling for few days. In rare cases, some patients may experience scab formation, bruises, infection and temporary hypo or hyper-pigmentation.

Uses of IPL

Uses of IPL include:

• New cell production is enhanced
• Strengthens the collagen matrix
• Permanent hair removal
• Blood flow to the skin improves
• Acne is kept under control
• Pores are minimized
• Pigmentation & age spots are minimized
• Photo aging is delayed
• Fine lines are diminished
• Broken capillaries are minimized
• Skin becomes healthier and radiant

Reference:

Geronemus RG. Fractional photothermolysis: current and future applications. Lasers Surg Med 2006; 38:169-76.K, Quevedo WC Jr, Fitzpatrick TB, Szabó G. Biology of melanocytes. In: Freedberg IM, Fitzpatrick TB, eds. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in general medicine. 4th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1993:261-89. Pulsed Light for the treatment of Facial Freckles in Asian Skin; Huang Y-L.[1]; Liao Y-L.[1]; Lee S-H.[1]; Hong H-S.;Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwanclinical results of IPL photorejuvenation; James Brazil[1]; Patti Owens[1]; Olympic Dermatology and Laser Clinic Olympia Washington USACK, Fitzpatrick RE. The treatment of melasma with fractional photothermolysis: a pilot study. Dermatol Surg 2005; 31:1645-50.