Learn the difference between an IPL Photofacial and Laser skin resurfacing to discover which treatment is best for you.
Light-based treatments are some of the most popular non-invasive alternatives to surgical procedures. IPL Photofacials and Laser Skin Resurfacing being two examples of common skin treatments for diminishing the signs of aging, ridding the complexion of blemishes and improving skin tone and texture. But what is the difference between a photo facial, using an IPL laser and laser skin resurfacing?
The Difference between IPL and Lasers
Most people are not aware that “laser” is actually an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.” Lasers focus a single wavelength or color of light to create a direct beam of light. This beam allows for the precise targeting of a specific pigment or skin tissue. Photofacials, which many mistakenly refer to as IPL lasers, are not actually lasers. Instead of emitting a beam of light, Photofacials emit a spectrum of colors in pulses, or flashes of high intensity broadband light (BBL.) Because a Photofacial emits a broad spectrum of light and not a single beam of light, it is incorrect to refer to a Photofacial as an IPL laser.
Light-Based Skin Treatments
Both Laser skin resurfacing and Photofacials use thermal energy to improve numerous skin conditions in two main ways.
They target the pigment found in melanin or blood vessels to diminish brown spots, hyper pigmentation and vascular lesions and redness.
IPL and lasers improve the signs of aging and rejuvenate the skin by heating the tissue below the skin’s surface, stimulating the renewal of skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen. However, laser treatments are more effective than IPL Photofacials for creating collagen.
When is an IPL Photofacial best?
IPL treatments are especially well suited for targeting vascular and pigmented lesions. However, because IPL treatments emit a broad spectrum of light that is not focused to a specific wavelength, they may not be suitable for all skin types.
Learn more about an IPL Photofacial
IPL Photofacials are especially good at:
- Targeting brown spots & freckles
- Improving redness, especially in the face
- Diminishing broken capillaries
- Reducing enlarged pores.
- Overall skin rejuvenation
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Because lasers offer more precision, they are better suited for targeting deeper wrinkles and fine lines, scarring, and other conditions that require heating of the deeper layers of the dermis to stimulate collagen production.
Learn more about laser skin resurfacing
Lasers are especially suited for improving
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Melasma and brown spots
- Acne scars and stretch marks
- Large pores
Now that you know that the IPL laser is actually not a laser and the difference between a Photofacial and laser skin resurfacing, the best way to determine which skincare treatment is right for you is to schedule a complimentary consultation with the skincare specialists at London Laser. Contact us online or call today at 519-641-3100.
Looking For a More Natural Treatment?
Why not consider using the benefits of Eastern medicine using our laser acupuncture facelift? Learn More about laser non-surgical facelift