Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy for Skin Rejuvenation in Singapore

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy may be used in the management of certain skin concerns associated with ageing. Light based treatments may be used to address skin concerns such as fine wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and vascular lesions. By targeting certain skin concerns, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy may contribute to changes in skin appearance. This phototherapy treatment may be used on multiple areas of the body, such as the arms, chest, neck, and face. Other treatment options, such as ultrasound based treatments, may also be discussed during consultation depending on individual skin concerns.

Visit our wrinkle treatment and hyperpigmentation treatment pages to learn more about these skin concerns and the various other treatment options you can consider.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is considered a non surgical treatment that does not involve incisions. Downtime may vary between individuals, and many patients are able to resume normal activities after treatment.

Your eyes will first be protected with safety shields and metal goggles. Then a cooling gel will be evenly applied to the treatment areas. The device includes cooling mechanisms designed to help regulate the temperature of the treatment surface in contact with the skin.

The procedure is gentle, non-invasive and safe. Some devices include cooling mechanisms designed to regulate skin temperature before energy is delivered. Cooling mechanisms may help improve patient comfort during treatment. Precisely engineered parabolic optics allow the uniform delivery of energy for consistent results and minimised pain.

In many cases, topical anaesthetic may not be required, although this varies depending on individual comfort levels.

The number of treatments varies between individuals, and a doctor will assess your skin condition before recommending a treatment plan. Treatment intervals may vary depending on clinical assessment and individual response.

A Stanford University study showed that:

Some research has examined gene expression changes associated with light based treatments used for skin rejuvenation.

Rejuvenated genes included several known key regulators of:

• Longevity
• Lifespan
• Tumour suppression

This results in:

• Increased skin elasticity
• More ordered and uniform collagen deposition
• Improvements in fine wrinkles, pigmentation and vascular lesions

(1 Chang A, Bitter P, et al. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013 Feb; 133(2): 394-402.)

Some individuals may experience redness after treatment, which usually resolves over time. Most individuals can resume normal activities after treatment depending on their skin response. Many individuals are able to return to work and resume normal activities after treatment. Your doctor may provide guidance on activities to avoid before or after treatment. Patients may be advised to avoid excessive sun exposure before and after treatment.

There is no special aftercare needed in terms of topical applications. The most important thing to avoid is UV radiation from sun exposure, especially immediately after the procedure. Do take note that even weeks or months after the procedure, it is well-advised to avoid excessive, prolonged sun exposure even with sunblock applied. Depending on your skin condition and sun exposure, you may develop darker pigmentations in the treatment areas. You are advised to apply sunblock every 1-2 hours when outdoors and avoid outdoor exposure, especially during the peak sunlight hours of the day.