IPL Photofacial Review

 Updated On:

IPL Photofacial

IPL Photofacial is a FDA-approved laser treatment that gently lasers off problematic skin areas and is approved to treat rosacea. Additionally, IPL Photofacial is approved to treat sun damage, problematic wrinkles, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and age spots. Usually administered by a dermatologist in an approved facility, lasers are used to diminish these signs of aging throughout a course of four sessions, and this process is claimed to be painless. This is an approved procedure, meaning it does work, but there are some issues with this procedure. Another issue is the cost -- expect to dish out around $1000 to make your skin picture perfect.

IPL Photofacial is joining the trend of medically-approved laser procedures, but like most procedures, it comes with its risks and safety concerns. Additionally, it seems that not all consumers are beaming about its after effects.

Product Details

Here is how IPL Photofacial works: after consulting your local dermatologist, you will begin your photofacial, which is usually carried out over four sessions. In each session, your dermatologist will apply protective cream and blast powerful energies of light on the affected areas, which lighten darker skin temporarily. This is a gradual process, which is why the four sessions are needed. One obvious drawback is that the IPL Photofacial procedure only offers temporary benefits -- your dermatologist will probably mention this before beginning the procedures. To keep dark spots from reappearing, you will need to go in for continuous treatments, and for budget-savvy consumers, this may not be doable.

There is also another alarming side effect -- burns from the actual procedure. Some consumers report their skin actually worsens and those supposedly helpful light rays actually burn their face. This might be due to sensitive skin, but dermatologists will usually not recommend this procedure for people with certain skin types. IPL Photofacial has some proven benefits, but some of the risks may be just too high for some.

The Good

  • Is a medically approved procedure, meaning it does work.
  • Is approved to treat rosacea, age spots, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Is administered by a qualified dermatologist, so the risk of side effects is somewhat minimal.

The Bad

  • Costs around $1000 per treatment, equaling $250 per appointment.
  • Can actually burn the skin in some cases, despite a professional’s touch.
  • Will only temporarily lighten skin.
  • On rare occasions this procedure will not have any effect on the skin.

The Bottom Line

Want to get rid of age spots and wrinkles fast? IPL Photofacial is worth looking into. Consumers should weigh the risks with their doctor before engaging in this type of procedure, and this procedure is certainly not appropriate for all skin types. If you are still willing to invest your time (and money) despite these risks, however, make sure to complete this procedure with a trained dermatologist – he or she can decide if this is appropriate for you and help you figure out all of your otpions.

Our Top Pick For 2009:  Dermapril-SP

Dermapril-SP was rated the best-in-class performer, with a cutting-edge formula and results visible immediately after use. Matrixyl 3000™, the primary active ingredient in Dermapril-SP, is backed by clinical research that showed reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles of as much as 33% after two months of use. Additionally, the formula contains the European miracle ingredient Argatensyl™, which creates an immediate tightening effect on applied areas, making results visible within minutes of use.

The treatment helps the skin regain a more youthful biochemical makeup by supporting the natural production of three building blocks – Collagen, Fibronectin and Hyaluronic Acid. The result is a rapid rejuvenation, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and other cosmetic signs of age caused by sun exposure, smoking, stress, and other common factors.

In clinical trials, Matrixyl 3000™ decreased the appearance of wrinkles by as much as 33% over a six week period. With the immediate tightening benefits of Argatensyl™, this formula has a completely unique combination of short-term cosmetic results as well as sustained, cumulative benefits to the skin. Common reported results include smoothing and firming; softer skin; diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; and healthier looking, glowing skin. Based on the high cost and quality of the ingredients, Dermapril-SP is reasonably priced. Customer satisfaction seems high and Dermapril-SP offers a risk-free trial, so users can evaluate the product prior to paying the full retail price.

>>Read more about Dermapril