Photorejuvenation
Restoring even tone and clarity with light-based energy
Photorejuvenation uses light-based energy to soften the visible effects of sun exposure and even out skin tone. It helps fade spots and redness, reduce visible vessels and restore the skin's radiance. At Dermapure, it is part of our Triangle of Care, which combines energy-based devices, injectables and medical-grade skincare for more comprehensive, longer-lasting results. Your plan is tailored to your skin and your goals, and every step is guided by our trained specialists.
Understanding Photorejuvenation
Photorejuvenation works on the principle of selective photothermolysis: broad-spectrum pulsed light is absorbed by specific targets in the skin, mainly the melanin in pigmented spots and the hemoglobin in small blood vessels, and turns into controlled heat that fades these targets while sparing the surrounding skin. Cut-off filters and adjustable settings let the specialist select the wavelengths and the depth the light reaches, so each treatment can be tailored to the skin type and the concern being treated.
Our Photorejuvenation Treatments
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is the foundational pulsed light technology. Cut-off filters let the specialist choose the wavelengths and adjust how deeply the light reaches, and every setting is fully adjusted to each patient's skin type, tone and sensitivity. This makes IPL highly customizable, but also means the operator's training matters, which is why at Dermapure it is performed by highly trained specialists.
Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT)
Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT) is a refinement of intense pulsed light. Rather than letting shorter, less useful wavelengths go to waste, it converts them into a more usable part of the spectrum for a more uniform, stable output. It can support more consistent delivery and comfort, and may suit a broader range of skin tones. AFT is used for pigmentation, redness, early signs of aging and, with targeted blue light, acne-related inflammation.
BroadBand Light (BBL)
BroadBand Light (BBL) is a proprietary form of pulsed light that combines preset energy delivery programs with filters selected for the concern being treated. It addresses pigmentation, diffuse redness and overall skin quality. Because it relies on standardized, preset programs rather than fully manual settings, BBL involves less manual adjustment than IPL and delivers energy in a more standardized way, while still being adapted by your specialist to your skin.
Follow-up and Maintenance
Photorejuvenation results develop gradually, and the benefits of pulsed light are cumulative. A series of sessions is usually planned, often around three to five spaced about a month apart, followed by lighter maintenance sessions over time to help preserve results, particularly as ongoing sun exposure and the natural aging process continue. The number and spacing of sessions depend on the technology used and the concern being treated. Your plan is built and adjusted with our team, and results vary from one person to another.
Side Effects & Contraindications
As with any light-based treatment, photorejuvenation can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, while some less frequent reactions deserve attention.
- Common side effects: Temporary redness, a sensation of warmth, mild swelling and short-term sensitivity are common in the first hours to days. Pigmented spots often darken temporarily before fading and flaking off, which is an expected part of the process.
- Less frequent side effects: When settings are not properly adjusted or on unsuitable skin, burns, blistering, prolonged irritation and changes in pigmentation (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation) can occur, particularly on darker or recently tanned skin. At Dermapure, these treatments are performed by highly trained specialists with advanced training in device settings and safety protocols, which significantly reduces the risk of such complications.
- Who should avoid these treatments: Photorejuvenation is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, on tanned or recently sun-exposed skin (including self-tanner and tanning beds), on active skin infections at the treatment site, with recent use of oral isotretinoin, or while taking photosensitizing medication. Very dark skin tones may not be suitable for pulsed light, which your specialist will assess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for IPL and pulsed light sessions?
Fall and winter are usually the best time. Pulsed light treatments require that the skin not be tanned or recently sun-exposed beforehand, and treated skin is more sensitive to light afterward. Scheduling sessions during the months with less sun exposure lowers the risk of complications and pigmentation changes, and makes it easier to maintain strict sun protection before and after each session. Your specialist will confirm the right timing for your skin.
Is IPL safe for all skin types?
No. Because pulsed light targets pigment and blood vessels in the skin, it is generally best suited to lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I to III). On darker or recently tanned skin, the light can be absorbed too strongly, which increases the risk of burns and pigmentation changes. This is why a professional skin assessment is essential before treatment: your specialist will determine whether pulsed light is appropriate for your skin tone or whether another technology would be a safer option. AFT can extend suitability to a somewhat broader range of skin tones, but no light-based treatment is appropriate for every skin type.
What is the difference between IPL, AFT and BBL?
All three are pulsed light technologies that treat similar concerns; the difference is in how the light is filtered, delivered and controlled. IPL uses filtered pulses fully adjusted by the practitioner to your skin and concern. AFT refines the output by converting otherwise wasted wavelengths into more usable energy for a more uniform delivery. BBL uses a proprietary, program-based delivery system.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends mainly on your concern and your skin. A series of sessions is usually planned, often spaced about a month apart, with maintenance over time. A more frequent series is sometimes recommended for acne. Your plan is personalized during your consultation.
Why Choose Dermapure
At Dermapure, every photorejuvenation treatment is delivered by our trained specialists. Our team maintains deep clinical expertise through ongoing training on laser and light technologies, treatment protocols and the evolution of best practices. As the largest network of medical aesthetic clinics in Canada, we share clinical knowledge and patient cases across our teams, so every treatment plan draws on the collective strength of a country-wide network of professionals.
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