Intense Pulsed Light, or IPL, is a light-based therapy used to improve the appearance of various skin irregularities. Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength of light, IPL emits a broad spectrum of light pulses that enter the deeper layers of the skin. At A E Skin in Encino, CA, Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD, uses this technology to target the skin’s pigment-producing cells. The light energy is absorbed by the excess melanin in dark spots, converting into heat and destroying the unwanted pigment without harming the surrounding tissue.

Resolving Sun Damage and Age Spots

Years of sun exposure often result in solar lentigines, commonly known as sun spots or age spots. These clusters of melanin create an uneven skin tone that can be difficult to cover with makeup. IPL is particularly effective for these surface-level pigment issues. Following a session at our Encino, CA, clinic, the targeted dark spots typically darken and eventually flake off, revealing a brighter complexion underneath. Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD, monitors the progress of each patient to ensure the light settings are optimized for their specific skin type and the depth of their hyperpigmentation.

Treating Redness and Vascular Irregularities

While many patients seek IPL for brown spots, the technology is also proficient at managing redness caused by broken capillaries and rosacea. The broad-spectrum light is attracted to the hemoglobin in red blood cells, causing the visible vessels to coagulate and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. This dual action makes IPL a comprehensive tool for skin rejuvenation. Residents of Encino, CA, find that this procedure helps create a more uniform color by clearing away both the brown and red tones that contribute to a weathered appearance.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

An IPL session is relatively quick, often described as feeling like the snap of a rubber band against the skin. Because it is non-ablative, meaning it does not remove the top layer of skin, the recovery time is minimal. Patients can usually return to their daily routines immediately, provided they remain vigilant about sun protection. Dr. Eshaghian emphasizes that the skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays following a session, so wearing a high-quality sunscreen is essential to prevent new dark spots from forming.

Achieving Long-Term Results in Encino, CA

For most patients, a series of IPL treatments is necessary to achieve the most significant reduction in hyperpigmentation. Each session progressively clears more pigment, leading to a visible improvement in skin clarity and texture. At A E Skin, we provide the professional oversight needed to ensure your light-based treatments are both safe and effective. Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD, is dedicated to helping the Encino community achieve healthy, radiant skin through evidence-based aesthetic medicine. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your skin or have concerns about its health, schedule an appointment with us by calling (818) 835-1833.