Skip to Content

IPL Photofacial

Skin Rejuvenation

Woman in a blue shirt looking to the side, with a softly blurred background in an indoor setting. Saxon MD

Rejuvenate Your Skin With Light Therapy.

Unveiling smoother, younger-looking skin is easier than ever with IPL Photofacial. This non-invasive treatment utilizes light pulses to target brown spots, sun damage, and redness, leaving you with a clearer, more even complexion. Schedule a consultation today and discover how IPL Photofacial can help you achieve your radiant skin goals!
Unveiling smoother, younger-looking skin is easier than ever with IPL Photofacial. This non-invasive treatment utilizes light pulses to target brown spots, sun damage, and redness, leaving you with a clearer, more even complexion. Schedule a consultation today and discover how IPL Photofacial can help you achieve your radiant skin goals!

What is IPL or a Photofacial?

A woman receiving an ipl photofacial treatment at Saxon MD

IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is more commonly referred to as a Photofacial. There are many different causes of brown spots or vascular imperfections appearing on the face, neck, chest, and hands which prevent you from looking your best. 

The ICON MaxG™ IPL uses pulses of light to erase broken blood vessels and pigmented lesions on the surface of the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue. Many IPL Photofacial patients even see clearer and more radiant skin after just one treatment!

Before & After

A woman with red hair styled in a ponytail, wearing a patterned blouse and a headband, poses against a black background. Saxon MD

Before

A portrait of a woman with long red hair and green eyes, wearing a grey top, against a dark grey background. Saxon MD

After

The IPL Technology

Woman with braided hair smiling at the camera, wearing a navy blue shirt, with a blurred interior background. Saxon MD

IPL technology delivers broad-spectrum light pulses targeting specific skin concerns without damaging the surrounding tissue. The light energy is absorbed by melanin (pigment) or hemoglobin (blood vessels), effectively reducing pigmentation irregularities and redness while stimulating collagen production for smoother, firmer skin.

The ICON MaxG was chosen by Dr. Saxon for its unique capabilities. It has Dynamic Spectrum ShiftingSM and dual-band filters which provide precise, efficient, and uniform heating across the entire diameter of larger vessels. The MaxG also uses the only FDA-cleared melanin reader called the Skintel Reader which accurately detects the amount of melanin in the skin to determine the safest and most effective settings.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and spray tans for at least two weeks.
  • Discontinue the use of certain skincare products, such as retinoids and exfoliants
  • Inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, as some medications may increase photosensitivity.
  • Shave the treatment area to ensure optimal light penetration.

Prepare for Your IPL Treatment

Portrait of a smiling bald man with a beard, resting his chin on his hand, wearing a black shirt and a bracelet, with a blurred background. Saxon MD
During your IPL photofacial treatment, your skin will first be thoroughly cleansed, and a topical numbing cream may be applied to ensure your comfort during the procedure. You’ll be provided with protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the intense pulses of light. As the IPL device is applied to the treatment area, you may experience a mild stinging or snapping sensation, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated. After the treatment, a cooling gel or cold compress may be applied to soothe the skin.

Quick Recovery: Most resume normal activities right after treatment.

Minimal Downtime: Expect mild redness and swelling, like a sunburn, for a few hours or a day.

Temporary Effects: You may see some darkening of treated spots, but it fades within days.

Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen regularly.

Makeup: Wait for any swelling or irritation to subside before applying makeup.

Follow Instructions: Optimize results and minimize side effects by following your doctor’s post-treatment care plan.

IPL FAQs

Is IPL treatment painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during IPL treatment, often described as a snapping or stinging sensation. Topical numbing cream may be applied to alleviate any discomfort.
The number of IPL sessions needed varies depending on the individual’s skin concerns and desired results. Typically, a series of 3-6 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart is recommended for optimal results.
Mild side effects such as redness, swelling, and temporary darkening of pigmented spots may occur following IPL treatment. These side effects usually subside within a few days to a week.
Results from IPL treatment are gradual and progressive, with noticeable improvements in skin tone and texture typically visible within a few weeks after the first session. Full results are typically achieved after completing the recommended series of treatments.
IPL results can last for several months to years with proper skincare maintenance and sun protection. However, periodic maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain optimal results.

Related
Blogs

Explore our Skin Rejuvenation topics.

Why Choose Saxon MD?

Dr. Sarah Saxon is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Austin and Dallas, Texas. Her patients come from all over the country to enjoy her artistic surgical experience for natural and beautiful results. When it comes to treating your skin, it is essential to go to someone who is expertly trained. Dr. Saxon has years of experience and expertise in non-invasive skin treatments and leads her team to provide the most up-to-date IPL treatments while maintaining the highest safety standards. Contact our office today to schedule your next IPL treatment!

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Newsletter

By submitting this form you are opting into our weekly newsletter. To be removed from the newsletter each correspondence will have an option to unsubscribe at the bottom of the email.