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Intense Pulsed Light Vancouver
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a non-invasive light-based treatment offered at our Dermapure clinics in Vancouver. It delivers controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light targeted at specific structures in the skin, such as melanin and superficial blood vessels, creating a controlled thermal effect while preserving the surrounding tissue.
IPL can help address pigment concerns (sun damage, brown spots, freckles), vascular concerns (visible capillaries, mild redness), uneven skin tone and the visible effects of photodamage on the face, neck, décolleté, hands and selected body areas. Because IPL acts on contrasts of pigment and blood vessels, suitability depends on the skin type, current tan and overall skin condition, with the protocol adjusted accordingly.
Because every patient’s skin, concerns and medical history are different, IPL at our Dermapure clinics in Vancouver always begins with a personalized consultation. Together with your specialist, you will assess whether IPL is the most appropriate option for you and discuss a realistic treatment plan, the expected results and the possible side effects. Book your personalized consultation with our team in Vancouver.
Local clinics offering Intense Pulsed Light
Dermapure South Surrey
Dermapure North Vancouver Westview
Dermapure Vancouver Davie (Dermal Laser)
Concerns Treated with IPL Therapy
- Sun Damage and Pigmentation : IPL Therapy targets excess melanin in the skin. After treatment, pigmented spots such as age spots and sun spots may appear temporarily darker before gradually fading and flaking off. Over time, this process leads to a clearer, more even skin tone.
- Redness, Blood Vessels and Broken Capillaries : The light energy is absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood, allowing IPL to target vascular lesions, such as visible blood vessels and broken capillaries. This helps reduce diffuse redness and makes the treatment suitable for redness-prone or rosacea-prone skin.
- Acne and Inflammation : IPL helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation while supporting sebaceous gland regulation. This contributes to calmer skin, fewer breakouts and reduced post-acne redness.
- Skin Texture, Aging and Collagen Production : By stimulating collagen production, IPL improves skin texture, radiance and early signs of aging. It is often used as a photofacial treatment to refresh and strengthen the skin.
- Hair Reduction: IPL targets the pigment in the hair follicle, weakening it over time and leading to slower, finer regrowth. Effectiveness depends on hair color, skin tone and the treatment area.
- Medical Use Around the Eyes : In a medical setting, IPL may be used to treat blepharitis associated with meibomian gland dysfunction. When applied around the eyelids under strict safety protocols, it helps reduce inflammation and relieve dry eye symptoms.
What to Expect During Your Session
Initial Cleansing
Your skin is carefully cleansed to remove makeup, excess oil, sunscreen and surface impurities. This step prepares the skin for treatment and helps ensure even light penetration and optimal results.
Eye Protection
To protect your eyes from light exposure, blackout goggles or protective eye shields are placed before the treatment begins. Eye safety is maintained at all times throughout the session.
Protective Gel Application
A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area. This gel helps conduct the light energy, protects the skin’s surface, reduces heat sensation and improves overall comfort during the procedure.
Setting Device Parameters
Your specialist selects and adjusts the IPL parameters based on your skin type, skin tone, concern being treated and skin response. Settings may be modified during the session to maintain both safety and effectiveness.
Delivering The Treatment
As the handpiece moves across the skin, controlled pulses of light are delivered. You may feel a brief snapping sensation or warmth, similar to a light rubber band snap. The treatment is generally well tolerated, and any discomfort is temporary.
Cleaning and Post-Treatment Products
Once the treatment is complete, the gel is removed and the skin is gently cleansed. Soothing and hydrating products are applied to calm the skin, followed by a mineral sunscreen to protect against UV exposure and support recovery.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
Some skin concerns require more than one session. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to preserve results. Your specialist will guide you based on your skin’s response.
Contraindications
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use IPL, as well as people who took Accutane in the last six months. Antibiotics that may cause light sensitivity should also be avoided. You should consult your pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does IPL treatment do?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses controlled pulses of light to target specific elements in the skin, such as pigment, vascular lesions (redness and visible blood vessels), acne-causing bacteria or hair follicles. Depending on the indication, IPL can help improve uneven skin tone and sun spots, reduce redness and vascular lesions, including visible blood vessels, calm acne-related inflammation, improve skin texture and radiance, and reduce unwanted hair.
What are the downsides of IPL?
Side effects are uncommon when IPL is performed by trained professionals, but the treatment does have limitations and potential risks. Possible downsides include temporary redness, warmth or mild swelling, as well as short-term skin sensitivity. If IPL parameters are not properly adjusted, more significant side effects may occur, such as burns or blistering, pigmentation changes, or prolonged skin irritation. IPL is also not suitable for very dark skin tones, recently tanned skin or certain skin conditions, as the light may increase the risk of side effects. At Dermapure, IPL treatments are performed by highly trained medical aesthetic specialists with advanced training in device settings and safety protocols, which helps reduce the risk of complications. Multiple sessions may be required, and strict sun protection before and after treatment is essential.
