IPL or Photofacial Treatment

Our IPL or Photofacail Treatment using the new Starlux Pulsed Light System from Palomar is an excellent way to safely and effectively treat sun damage, age and brown spots, freckles, rosacea, and wrinkles in one comprehensive treatment.

How many IPL or Photofacial treatments are needed?

Although you will notice an improvement with just one treatment, Dr. Rajagopal recommends a minimum of three treatments for more significant results. Since the Starlux treatments are so effective patients usually do not need 5-10 treatments as recomended by other laser centers. The number of treatments loosely follows the general rule of one treatment for every decade of life.

How long will each Photo Laser Facial treatment take?

Each Photo Laser Facial session will last approximately 45 minutes. Patients should allow additional time to apply their topical anesthetic prior to the procedure.

How will my skin look right after an IPL or Photofacial?

Immediately after treatment, the patients' skin will be red and in some cases tighter than usual for approximately two days. Mild swelling is also normal right after the treatment. After the first two days, patient's can expect light peeling and mild lip dryness. Most patients can apply makeup later that day or the following day. The downtime is very minimal when compared to two weeks recovery for a TCA peel or Obagi Blue Peel.

Is it Painful?

The Starlux has a special Chilled Tip to cool the skin during the treatment to help and reduce the heat sensation that patients may feel during the application. In addition, patients will be given a prescription for a topical anesthetic to apply 1 hour before the treatment to keep the pain away.

How should I take care of my skin after the treatment?

Patients are advised to use a mild cleanser and mild moisturizer after the treatment for a few days following their procedure before resuming their normal skin routine. Dr. Rajagopal recommends a Cetaphil cleanser and Kinerase lotion.

When will I notice an improvement in my skin after the treatment?

Once the redness subsides, patients will notice an immediate result of decreased brown spots, age spots, and sun damage. Collagen production in wrinkles will not increase as quickly. Patients should expect to wait approximately six months before final results for wrinkle reduction.

If you have any questions regarding Photofacials, or wish to schedule a consultation, please call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.