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IPL/Photofacial

What is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)?

Intense pulsed light (IPL) technology, commonly known as Photorejuvenation or Photofacial, is a broad-spectrum light treatment used to improve the appearance of spots, discolorations, and unwanted blood vessels. IPL treatments can turn back time to give you younger-looking skin by also stimulating collagen and elastin production. With an improvement in your overall skin appearance, many patients need less make-up to hide any imperfections.

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After conducting your unique skin analysis, Dr. Liu will customize your treatment plan to achieve the best results. IPL is ideally suited to improve the following skin conditions:

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  • Pigmentation irregularities (sun/liver/age spots)

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Uneven skin tone or texture

  • Oily or acneic skin

  • Large pores

  • Spider veins or broken capillaries

  • Dyschromia (abnormal skin discoloration)

  • Rosacea of the face and eyelids

Commonly asked questions

Does Dr. Liu perform the IPL treatment herself?

Dr. Liu performs all of the IPL treatments herself (not a nurse or aesthetician). Since Dr. Liu is a surgeon and an expert in anatomy, she can more accurately adjust the settings and target the right areas to achieve the best result for you.

What areas can be treated with IPL?

The most popular areas of treatment are the face, neck, chest, and hands. Other areas of the body such as the back, shoulders, arms, and legs can also be treated.

How many IPL treatments will I need?

Depending on the condition of your skin, typically 3 to 5 treatments spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart are recommended to achieve optimal results.

How long does an IPL treatment take?

An IPL treatment takes approximately half an hour and typically does not require the application of numbing cream prior to the treatment. The IPL treatment can also be combined with other procedures at the same visit.

What can I expect after an IPL treatment?

There is very little downtime after an IPL treatment and you may return to your normal activities the same day. Your skin may be red but make-up can be applied right after the treatment to cover it up. Treated brown spots may appear darker for up to 10 days before flaking off. After the treatment, you will see an improvement in your skin that continues to develop over time and greater improvement is seen with each additional treatment.

How long will the results last?

The results of the IPL treatments can be maximized and extended with good skin care. We offer a complimentary consultation with our aesthetician after you have completed your IPL treatment series to design an individualized skin care regimen. It is recommended to have a touch up IPL treatment annually to maintain your youthful looking skin.

How much does an IPL treatment cost?

It is difficult to provide pricing before a patient has had a consultation with Dr. Liu. The cost can vary depending on the areas treated and the number of treatments needed. Dr. Liu will recommend the optimal treatment regimen customized for you at your consultation.

Is the IPL treatment safe?

Possible side effects of treatment include swelling, redness, scarring, and change in pigmentation, all of which are usually temporary. Although IPL treatments are non-surgical procedures, improper administration increases your risk of developing potential complications (i.e. burns and scarring). Your IPL treatment should only be performed by a licensed, experienced professional.

I have severe full-face rosacea with acne rosacea on my nose and i underwent my first of many IPL and YAG treatments (for nose redness) with Dr. Liu. I had limited discomfort and knew what to expect the whole time in the 10 minutes it took to perform the whole process so I was never scared. Within one week, I had reduced overall flushing, redness turned to pinkness, my nose has less papules and vascularization, and I haven't worn any face makeup in over two weeks. It has been a game changer. I can't wait to go back to Dr. Liu, the staff are unbelievably knowledgeable and approachable - she is my forever doctor.


Harley
Laguna Beach

Dr. Liu is the top rated oculoplastic surgeon in Orange County.

Click here to read more patient testimonials.

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