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ipl photorejuvenation
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a light-based treatment that targets pigmentation, redness, and early sun damage, revealing brighter, more even-toned skin. Performed by our GMC-registered doctors, IPL is a popular choice for patients who want to address visible skin concerns without downtime, using broad-spectrum light energy rather than a
single-wavelength laser.
Why Choose IPL?
• Targets pigmentation, sun spots, freckles, and broken capillaries in a single treatment
• Broad-spectrum light treats multiple skin concerns at once — pigmentation, redness, and texture
• No downtime — most patients return to normal activities immediately
• Suitable for the face, neck, chest, and hands
• Doctor-led precision, with every treatment following a full consultation
Treatment Summary
Treatment Time 20–30 minutes
Recovery Minimal — mild redness for a few hours
Results Pigmentation spots darken then flake
off over 1–2 weeks; redness improves gradually over a course
Anaesthetic Not usually required; topical numbing available if needed Specialist GMC-registered doctor
Results Duration Long-lasting with proper sun protection; new sun damage can require maintenance sessions Course Typically 3–6 sessions, 3–4 weeks
apart, depending on concern
Price
What is IPL?
IPL uses broad-spectrum light (rather than the single wavelength used in laser treatments) to target pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. The light energy is absorbed by melanin (in pigmented areas) or haemoglobin (in blood vessels), heating and breaking down the targeted cells while leaving surrounding skin undamaged.
What Can IPL Treat?
• Sun spots, age spots, and freckles
• Melasma and other forms of pigmentation (with appropriate assessment, as some pigmentation types respond better than others)
• Facial redness and broken capillaries, including rosacea-related redness
• Uneven skin tone and early sun damage
• General photorejuvenation for a brighter, more even complexion
IPL vs Laser Treatments — What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask before booking a light-based treatment.
IPL Laser (e.g. for hair removal)
Light type Broad-spectrum Single, specific wavelength
(multiple wavelengths)
Best for Pigmentation, redness, general Precisely targeted concerns
skin tone (e.g. hair follicles)
Treats multiple concerns at once Yes Typically no, more targeted
Downtime None to minimal Varies by treatment
Sessions typically needed 3–6 sessions Varies by treatment
How Does Treatment Work ?
Your appointment begins with a full consultation and skin assessment to confirm suitability — IPL isn’t suitable for all skin tones or types, and your doctor will assess this honestly before treatment. A cooling gel is applied, and the IPL device is passed over the treatment area in a series of light pulses. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snapping feeling, similar to an elastic band flick. The full treatment typically takes 20–30 minutes.
Pre-Care
1. Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least 2–4 weeks before treatment
2. Avoid self-tanning products for 1–2 weeks before treatment
3. Stop using retinol or exfoliating products for 3–5 days beforehand
4. Inform your doctor of any medications that increase sun sensitivity
Aftercare
1. Use SPF 30+ daily for at least 4 weeks after treatment — this is essential, not optional
2. Avoid direct sun exposure and saunas for 24–48 hours
3. Pigmented spots will typically darken before flaking off naturally over 1–2 weeks — do not pick at them
4. Mild redness immediately after treatment is normal and usually settles within a few hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IPL safe for all skin tones? IPL works best on lighter to medium skin tones, as darker skin carries a higher risk of pigmentation changes with light-based treatments. Your doctor will assess your skin tone and history during
consultation to confirm suitability, or recommend an alternative treatment if IPL isn’t appropriate for you.
Does IPL hurt? Most patients describe a mild snapping sensation, similar to an elastic band flick, rather than significant pain. Treatment is generally well-tolerated without numbing cream.
How many sessions will I need? Most patients need a course of 3–6 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart, depending on the concern being treated and its severity.
When will I see results? Pigmented spots typically darken within a few days and flake off naturally over 1–2 weeks. Redness and overall tone improvements build gradually over a full course of treatment.
Is there any downtime? Minimal — most patients return to normal activities immediately, though strict sun
protection is essential for several weeks after each session.
Can IPL treat melasma? Melasma can be more complex to treat with IPL and may respond differently than sun spots or freckles — sometimes worsening if not assessed correctly. This is why a proper consultation and skin assessment is essential before treatment, particularly for melasma.
Why Choose EliteSkin for Profhilo Near Paddington?
● All treatments performed by GMC-registered doctors
● Doctor-led clinic — not nurse-led or beautician-led
● 429 Google reviews at 4.9 stars
● English, Arabic, Russian and Greek spoken
● Free medical consultation included
● Conveniently located near Paddington and Marble Arch, London W2
Ready to book your free consultation?
Call us on 020 3965 0299 or visit elite-skin.co.uk to book online.
EliteSkin is located at 1st Floor, Marble Arch Medical Centre, 217 Edgware Road, London W2 1ES — a short walk from Paddington and Marble Arch stations.