Most of us know that the sun, while associated with warmth and outdoor fun, can be extremely detrimental to the health of our skin. In fact, UV rays are so powerful that they can actually alter our skin's DNA! This accelerates the skin ageing process and opens the door to potential serious medical issues.
Australians are keenly aware of the importance of sun protection and regular skin checks. Unfortunately, even with our best efforts, we cannot shield ourselves from the sun all the time. UV radiation negatively affects our skin's texture and elasticity, worsens wrinkles, causes pigmentation changes and contributes to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. If you have started to notice any of these signs of ageing, there's a good chance sun exposure is a factor.
OLA Aesthetics offers a range of skin renewal options to treat redness, hyperpigmentation and sun damage. One treatment designed for this purpose is IPL, also known as a photofacial. This light-based therapy can enhance the look and feel of your skin in convenient treatment sessions with minimal downtime.
A Note From Dr Aleks
When I was researching IPL devices for OLA Aesthetics, I wanted to find a system that would deliver superior results for our patients while prioritising their safety and experience. After extensive evaluation, I chose the Alma Harmony XL Pro for its advanced technology, versatility, comfort and proven track record.
The Harmony platform allows us to treat various skin concerns with incredible accuracy. This means that whether you're looking to reduce pigmentation, treat vascular lesions or rejuvenate your skin generally, this single device can do it all in the same session. Nearly all skin types are treatable.
Moreover, the Alma Harmony XL Pro is equipped with a built-in cooling system that enhances patient comfort during treatments. This feature is especially important to me, as I believe that everyone deserves a positive and comfortable experience when they visit our clinic.
Treatable Concerns
- Sun spots, age spots, freckles and other types of hyperpigmentation
- Redness
- Rosacea
- Broken blood vessels
- Uneven tone
- Fine lines
Treatment Summary
- Anaesthetic: None
- Procedure Time: 15-30 minutes
- Downtime: Minimal to none
- Risks: See below
- Results: 1-2 weeks
- Protocol: 3-6 sessions
What Is IPL Photorejuvenation?
IPL stands for "intense pulsed light". Like laser, IPL uses light energy to address skin irregularities, but the type of light is different. Laser technology uses only one wavelength of light. The treatment is more targeted and often more intense as a result.
IPL, on the other hand, uses a mixture of different wavelengths. The light is delivered in short flashes and is more scattered than the focused beam of a laser. This means the treatment is less intense, can be used over larger areas of skin and can treat multiple conditions at once. IPL is also known for being more comfortable, requiring less downtime and being suitable for a broader range of skin types.
IPL photorejuvenation is ideal for those seeking a more even and radiant complexion without the downtime associated with more aggressive procedures. It is particularly effective for targeting hyperpigmentation and redness, including rosacea.
How Does Intense Pulsed Light Work?
IPL devices emit short bursts of a powerful, broad-spectrum light that penetrates the skin down to the second layer (the dermis) without harming the top layer (the epidermis). The light energy is absorbed by specific cells with colour in the skin, such as the melanin found in dark spots and haemoglobin in capillaries.
Once absorbed, this light energy is converted to heat energy, which destroys the pigment to clear up dark spots or damages the walls of the blood vessels to reduce redness and visible blood vessels. The heat also stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin. Over time, as the skin generates more of these key proteins, you'll notice a more even, healthier-looking skin surface.
The OLA Experience
Consultation
Our one-on-one consultations are the cornerstone of the bespoke care you receive at OLA Aesthetics. Upon your arrival at our chic West Perth clinic, you'll be warmly greeted by our staff, then brought to meet with one of our doctors. Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan based on your concerns and goals and answer any questions you may have.
Preparation
Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds and self-tanners for at least four weeks before your appointment. For approximately one week pre-treatment, pause using skincare products containing irritating ingredients or exfoliating agents. If you're on any medications, particularly those that make you light-sensitive, discuss these with your doctor during your consultation. You might need to adjust your medication regimen temporarily.
Treatment
IPL treatment is performed in the clinic and generally lasts around 30 minutes. Your provider will first clean your skin and apply a gel to the area being treated. Your provider will then pass the Alma Harmony IPL handpiece over your skin, pausing in each area to deliver pulses of light energy. Many patients liken the sensation of IPL to being snapped by a rubber band.
What Is the Average Downtime and Recovery?
There is a minimal recovery and downtime associated with IPL. In fact, most patients can return to their regular activities immediately after their session. Common side effects include mild skin redness, irritation, swelling and a sensation similar to a sunburn in the treated area. This usually subsides within a few hours to a few days.
Hyperpigmented spots may temporarily become darker than the surrounding skin after a photofacial. This is a common reaction to the treatment and nothing to worry about. The darkened area and "coffee ground" texture typically fade in seven to 14 days.
We recommend applying a gentle moisturiser and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect the treated skin from sun exposure. You should avoid direct sunlight for at least a few weeks after the treatment to prevent any complications and protect your results.
Your provider will give you a more precise and thorough idea of what you can personally expect after the treatment during your consultation.
What Results Can I Expect From My Alma Harmony IPL Treatment?
After your IPL treatment, you may see improvement in the appearance of concerns like age spots, freckles, sun damage, broken blood vessels, redness and more. The light energy will also trigger a natural wound response in the deeper layers of your skin to increase collagen and elastin production. Your results will continue to improve with time as the collagen and elastin work to restore your skin.
We recommend scheduling a series of three to six IPL treatments to reach your maximum degree of improvement. Each session builds on the progress of the prior session. Following completion of this initial protocol, you may return for maintenance treatments as needed.
IPL Photorejuvenation Treatment Results
The images presented here depict actual patients of OLA Aesthetics who have provided informed consent for their photos to be published. These images have not been altered, edited, or enhanced in any way.
Please note that before and after images show the outcomes of specific cases at varying time periods. Before and after photos illustrate outcomes from individual cases and are not a guarantee of specific results, as individual responses to treatments may vary based on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and adherence to aftercare recommendations.
All medical, surgical, and minimally invasive procedures carry inherent risks and require appropriate recovery and aftercare. It is essential to consult with a qualified health practitioner to determine the most suitable treatment for your needs. We strongly encourage seeking a second opinion before proceeding with any procedure.
For more information, please review our website or schedule a consultation with Dr Aleksandra Kaddour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Could Harmony IPL Be Right for Me?
Because it can be used anywhere on the body, including the face, neck, chest, back, arms or legs, Harmony IPL is a versatile option for many people looking to address pigmentation, redness and other signs of ageing.
The ideal candidates for photorejuvenation are individuals with light to medium skin tones who are in generally good health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of their treatment. Patients with very dark skin, active skin infections or certain medical conditions may not be good candidates for this treatment.
The best way to determine if IPL is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our experienced team at OLA Aesthetics. Enquire today to get started.
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Consultation at OLA Aesthetics
As wonderful as spending time in Perth’s beautiful weather can be, the damaging effects of sun exposure can stay with you long after the warm seasons have passed. IPL can help your skin recover from the sun’s impact and restore a more evenly-toned complexion.
