IPL Sydney (Intense Pulse Light Energy)

IPL skin treatment can treat a variety of skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, discolouration, scars and more.

In an IPL treatment, intense pulse light energy stimulates fibroblasts in the dermis, promoting new collagen, which can help the skin regenerate.

To find out if you are a suitable candidate for IPL, contact us to book your consultation at our Double Bay clinic.

IPL skin treatments

An IPL treatment can target areas of fine lines and wrinkles, discolouration, scars, large pores, skin laxity and more, by transmitting filtered light. This light energy is selectively absorbed by the tissues, which leads to the generation of heat. As a result, the production of collagen is increased. Collagen helps fill in areas of wrinkling or scarring while also reducing discolouration. New, healthy cells also migrate in the area and replace old, damaged cells. Basically, IPL stimulates your body’s natural wound-healing mechanism to stimulate activity in the cells.

IPL can be a suitable treatment choice for the following skin conditions:

• Skin discolouration
• Acne scars
• Age spots
• Enlarged pores
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin laxity or loose skin
• Spider veins
• Sunspots
• Uneven skin tone

A single treatment session may be planned to treat a variety of skin concerns. When you meet with Dr Rastogi, you will be able to discuss a personalised treatment plan and ensure that the treatment addresses your personal concerns.

Suitable candidates

Your suitability for an IPL skin treatment needs to be evaluated during a consultation, to avoid any complications occurring and ensure that the procedure is suited to your personal goals.

Candidates for IPL should have skin that is not overly sensitive or prone to severe reactions, as those with highly sensitive skin may experience discomfort or adverse reactions to the treatment.

IPL treatment is generally not recommended for those who have active skin infections, such as cold sores or acne flare-ups. The skin in the treatment area needs to be in a relatively healthy state before undergoing IPL to minimise the risk of complications.

Suitable candidates will have realistic expectations about the results of IPL. Multiple treatment sessions may be required to work towards the results you want to achieve, and the complete elimination of certain skin concerns may not be possible.

The treatment is typically not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Candidates who have a history of hypertrophic scars or keloid formation may also not be suitable candidates, as there can be a risk of exacerbating these conditions.

During your consultation, you’ll need to let us know of any medications you are taking, your medical history and any skin conditions you have. We’ll need to consider these as certain medications or conditions may increase the risk of complications.

How is an IPL treatment performed?

Before your treatment, your skin will be cleansed thoroughly to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil. A cooling gel may be applied to the treatment area to support your comfort and protect the skin during the procedure. Since IPL emits intense light pulses, protective eyewear will be provided to shield your eyes from the bright flashes of light.

The IPL device will be adjusted to the appropriate settings based on your skin type, the specific concern/s being treated, and the results you would like to achieve. Once the settings are adjusted, the handheld IPL device will be pressed against the skin, and pulses of light will be emitted. The device is moved across the treatment area in a systematic pattern to achieve even coverage.

During the treatment, you may experience a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin, or a mild stinging or tingling sensation, but most patients tolerate the procedure well, especially with the application of cooling gel or air cooling.

After your treatment, any excess gel will be removed, and a moisturiser or cream may be applied to manage any temporary discomfort or redness.

Costs of IPL skin treatment in Sydney

The costs of your IPL treatment will depend on the area being treated, the length of your treatment session and other aspects of the procedure that will be personalised.

Since the treatment will be tailored to meet your needs, you will need to wait until your in-person consultation at our Double Bay clinic to receive an accurate quote.

The condition of your treatment area will be assessed to determine the details of your treatment plan. You can also discuss what you can expect during and after the procedure to decide if the treatment suits your needs.

Contact us to book your consultation and discuss the costs of your treatment, or contact us if you have any questions.

Recovery

Immediately after your treatment, you can return to work and daily activities. You may also experience the following side effects:

• Blisters
• Brown spots
• Bruising
• Crusting
• Redness
• Swelling

These symptoms are normal and are your body’s natural response to the treatment. They should subside within a few days after your treatment.

After your treatment, we will provide specific instructions to help you care for the treated area. These instructions typically include the following:

• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the treated area.
• Avoid excessive sweating for two days.
• Avoid exfoliating creams for one week.
• Avoid hot showers or hot baths.
• Avoid picking blisters.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Avoid skincare products with harsh chemicals.
• Use a non-irritating moisturiser.
• Use warm water to cleanse your skin.

We’ll go over your instructions in further detail during your consultation, as some steps may be slightly changed to suit the details of your procedure or your individual needs.

Possible complications

As with any treatment, candidates should be aware of the potential risks and complications of IPL skin treatment.

Possible complications of the treatment can include:

• Irritation (redness, swelling and mild discomfort)
• Temporary changes in skin pigmentation
• Burns or blisters
• Infection
• Scarring

Skin irritation typically subsides within a few hours to a few days, and temporary changes in skin pigmentation should resolve as the skin heals.

Burns, blisters, or infections may need medical attention. These complications can be prevented by using appropriate techniques during the procedure and following aftercare instructions.

You will discuss any additional complications that may be associated with the procedure during your consultation.

Why choose Dr Rastogi’s clinic for IPL treatments?

An IPL treatment should always be performed by experienced staff who have undergone the right training.

At our Double Bay clinic, our team is led by surgeon Dr Rastogi, held to a high standard of care.