Complete Guide to Photofacial Treatments

Last Updated on December 7, 2024 by Derma Arts Team

Are you overwhelmed by feelings that no skincare would work for you since you have tried all the products in the world? In cases of such skin conditions as sun-damaged skin, freckles, and acne you may require a better treatment. A favourite of celebrities and Hollywood actresses, photo facials might be what you need to solve many of your skin issues at once. Read on to discover the uses, photo facial benefits, the impact that comes with it, and finally, the cost in India. Photofacial is also called photorejuvenation, which is a skin treatment that cures different skin ailments, including age spots, sun damage, open pores, wrinkles, as well as fine lines. This medical facial can be obtained from a medical spa, skin clinic, a specialized resort, and any centre that is accredited to offer whole-body care. Let’s explore more: 

What is it, and how do they work?

Photofacial treatment is a cosmetic treatment that uses light to eliminate spots, hairs, sun damage, rosacea, and visible veins in the facial skin. Moreover, it works by heating the pigments in the skin and breaking them down; this procedure is also known as a “photo facial.” IPL hair removal gadgets used at home administer extremely gentle shock currents of light to the hair follicle. 

The treatment involves the administration of a series of lights to the skin’s deeper layers that are absorbed by cells with pigments or haemoglobin. This light energy puts heat on these cells and kills them and, at the same time, triggers the skin to heal itself. This process triggers collagen to be made, and after that, the skin becomes firmer, and the tone will be more even with passing time. Furthermore, the affected cells float to the skin surface and peel off due to natural skin shedding, revealing antioxidant-rich skin.

Normally, an IPL Photofacial treatment takes 20-30 minutes and is fairly comfortable; the sensation, as described by some patients, resembles the snap of a rubber band. In order to get the best effects, several sessions are usually advised and each of them is carried out with an interval of some weeks.

Firstly, IPL Photofacials, being effective for a variety of ethnic skin types, also have their drawbacks: Mild irritation, redness, and sometimes slight inflammation at the application site – all these are easily treatable side effects that following the prescribed use regime do not last for more than three days. It is best to seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist or a skincare professional first, especially those with melanin-rich skin or skin conditions.

Photofacial benefits

IPL photo facial treatments are quickly gaining popularity because they do not cause inconvenience to people, and the photo facial treatment addresses a variety of skin issues.  

Protects and improves the skin by minimizing sunlight and skin discolouration

One of the more common advantages of photo facials is the therapy for uneven skin places, which are caused by exposure to sunlight and present as, for instance, dark spots, sun spots, etc. These dark patches may be a result of melanin clusters on the skin; for this reason, the IPL device beams light pulses through the skin to disintegrate those clusters. It takes a while before the pigment floats to the surface of the skin, and that layer will be eliminated, hence correcting the blotchy skin. Due to this, photo facials are a good option for those who want to reverse the effects of years of sunbathing and get even skin.

Skin texture and skin tone are enhanced

Laser treatments stimulate new collagen formation in the skin and are known as photo facials. The formation of collagen reduces with time, and that is why facial skin loses elasticity and also becomes lacklustre. Photofacials raise the levels of collagen to make the skin smooth, consistent, and vibrant, hence giving it a youthful appearance. When one is using a regenerative system, many will agree they wake up with a firmer skin complexion.

Minimizes Redness and Rosacea

If one is struggling with rosacea or constant redness, photo facials are very beneficial. Their positive influence is also in that it helps alleviate problematic vascular markings and capillaries, the causes of redness. It is also preferable to other topical remedies that might result in skin inflammation; photo facials work more gently, addressing the blood vessels. This leads to making the skin less red and having a better even tone.

Fights Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Other essential functions of collagen include preventing wrinkles, so one of the key photo-facial benefits is the stimulation of the production of collagen to diminish fine lines and other wrinkles. Thus, while photo facials may not be as effective as more invasive anti-ageing treatments, they are surely effective enough to prevent and even minimize wrinkles over time – a great choice for people who would like to maintain rather than eliminate wrinkles as they age.

Treats Acne and Acne Scars

It has emerged that photo facials are useful in the treatment of acne as they help to minimize inflammation and kill the bacteria causing acne. They are usually emitted through the skin as light pulses; it eliminate acne lesions because it reduces the chances of a breakout. Furthermore, IPL is capable of addressing pigmentation and textural changes due to scars from acne since these can be treated and reduced eventually. This makes photo facials a two-in-one treatment for individuals who have active acne as well as scarring.

Early Intervention and Short Recovery Period

Another one of the main benefits of photo facial treatment is the fast execution time, as the process takes 20-30 minutes on average per session. The photo facials are less invasive than other skin treatments, and most of the patients can go back to their daily activities within minutes to a few hours. Some people may notice their skin turns red after the treatment, but usually only for a day or two – perfect for people with heavy schedules.

Long-Lasting Results with Proper Maintenance

While photo facials offer excellent short-term benefits, their results can also be long-lasting when combined with a good skincare routine and occasional follow-up treatments. With regular maintenance, photo facial benefits can last several months, giving you consistently rejuvenated skin over time. The treatment can be customized to individual needs, whether the focus is on reducing pigmentation, minimizing fine lines, or clearing acne, making it versatile for ongoing skin care.

Photofacial cost in Delhi

The photofacial cost in Delhi is estimated to be between 5000-15000 rupees for the session, depending on the kind of clinic used, the dermatologist, or the type of photofacial that was used. Some clinics provide a set of sessions to be performed as one package; therefore, they may be cheaper per session than those charged individually. An initial photo facial may cost less compared to other treatments, but photo facial for certain skin issues might be different. However, for a more accurate figure that would be specific to your skin type and any ongoing promotions or specials on packages, call a certified skin care specialist.

Preparation for IPL Photafacial 

IPL photofacial involves the usage of intense pulsed light on the face and skin, and therefore, preparation is essential to obtain the best results. Another important need is that you must have no tan on your skin at all. The IPL machine may not effectively penetrate through tanned skin and thus cannot differentiate one skin problem, such as pigmentation or redness from the tan, which may lead to burning. It is advised to quit using tanning beds and not to sunbathe for a few weeks before the visit.

Also, there are some drugs and preparations that one should not take before the treatment starts. Do not consume alcohol, aspirin, anticoagulant or other blood thinners, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as this may cause side effects such as bruising, among others. Your dermatologist will likely advise you more about what to avoid and recommend a list of things to avoid before the procedure. This way, the skin is prepared as well as it could be for methods to be safely and effectively administered on it.

Who should go for the treatment?

IPL photo facials are secure for all ages and skin types, even though they give the best results to people with fair to medium-toned skin. Darker skin-toned people can also see improvements but the settings of the treatment may require adjustment to avoid negative side effects. IPL is most beneficial for those who have been largely exposed to the sun or have problems with skin that has been affected by the sun in some way, as it assists with sun freckles, scars, and wrinkles. Furthermore, if you have an issue with the effect of blood vessel visibility on the facial skin or skin redness, the IPL will enhance these features and remove skin roughness to allow you to look younger. 

What to Expect from an IPL Photofacial?

If this is your first time undergoing such a treatment, here are things you can expect throughout the process:

Initial Consultation: During the first appointment, the doctor will determine the skin type and the treatment process. You can tell the doctor what your expectations are about your treatment.

Preparation: The specialist will wash your skin. Then, they will prepare the skin to apply an ointment to the treatment area to alleviate pain. Light protection eyewear may also be taken to minimize your eyes’ brightness exposure to the source.

Treatment: The specialist will then employ a handheld device that delivers a short burst of light over the desired skin area. The skin absorbs this light to promote collagen synthesis and minimize sun spots, freckles, and fine lines.

Post-Treatment Care: You may notice that your skin appears slightly red or swollen; this usually subsides in the hours following the procedure. You will be told not to take a bath under direct sunlight or apply sunscreen religiously, accompanied by set instructions.

Follow-Up: Several courses of therapy may be required for the best outcome. Your specialist will devise a treatment regimen according to the skin analysis and set the next appointment if needed.

Photofacial side effects

However, the IPL photo facials for facial rejuvenation are safe for most skin types but may cause the following side effects. Being informed of these possible photo facial side effects will come in handy as you manage the skin after the treatment.

• Redness and Swelling: Some people may experience itching, mild rash, and slight redness or swelling at the site of the injections. This is because, in response to the light pulses, the skin becomes irritated and usually fades in the next few hours to a couple of days. Cold compression application also helps in the reduction of swellings.

• Skin Sensitivity: This post-treatment, when touching your skin, it may feel more sensitive. This hyperesthesia is transient and may just last for a day or two after treatment with the drug. Elimination of scrubs, facial washes, and harsh lotions also plays a role in the healing process.

• Dryness and Flakiness: This treatment has potential side effects such as dryness and mild peeling several days after the treatment. This is because through the process of removing pigmented cells, after some time the skin is likely to exfoliate and therefore renew it. Applying a mild lotion to your skin can assist in preventing dry skin.

• Darkening of Pigmented Areas: In some cases, it will first seem as if the pigmented spots have become darker after treatment. This is the natural way of skin renewal because the pigment comes to the skin’s surface as it forms a scab in several days. It should not be scratched because this will leave a scar on the skin once it is healed.

• Temporary Discomfort: Most of the people in the study experienced pins and needles or an increase in temperature during and after the treatment. This sensation usually subsides within several hours and can be dulled with a wipe with a skin-cooling product.

Photofacial cost in India

The photofacial cost in India will be in the range of ₹ 3,000 to ₹15,000 per session based on area, clinic, the dermatologist’s experience, and type of technology used. This may be so because the costs may be higher in some of the larger cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore as there is more demand as well as better equipped center. The small towns may be cheaper, but it does not mean that patients will be treated poorly. Some of the clinics also offer lower prices per session if many sessions are booked at once, as they package them. The cost will vary because each person has different skin needs, and it is recommended to turn to a certified specialist for the correct pricing.

Conclusion

Thus, photo facials under IPL offer skin rejuvenation services that enhance skin tone, texture, and general skin outlook by tackling issues such as sun-damaged skin, pigmentation, and fine lines. It’s mostly non-irritating but there may be mild risks of skin reactions such as redness and small swellings or temporarily dry skin. This means that after having been affected by this chemical, one should avoid going out under direct sunlight or applying sunscreen. This is a procedure that you need to consult a qualified skin care specialist so that before undergoing it you will be in a position to determine if it is advisable or not. When done right, the IPL photo facials should take effect, and they last, and you will notice the difference.

FAQS

• Is IPL Photofacial suitable for all skin types? 

IPL photo facials can be safely undergone by those with small or medium skin complexes. Individuals whose skin is darker may require changes to the settings of the treatment to be administered in order not to have some problems. It is advisable to consult a certified professional in this case.

• How many sessions of IPL treatment will be necessary? 

It is reported that for the greatest effectiveness, the majority of patients need from 3 to 6 sessions with intervals of 2-4 weeks between them. The exact number also varies depending on the specific skin conditions and objectives of treatment.

• What follows the treatment? 

There is minimal downtime. Some of the side effects include redness of the skin, slight swelling, or dryness, which are evident in a few hours to days at most. Following aftercare is important to allow healing to occur correctly.

• How soon will I see the results? 

Little changes may probably be visible after the first 1-2 sessions, and after 3-4 sessions, there should be considerable improvements. The skin colour and its feel become even better over some period once the collagen formation is initiated.

• How soon after a photo facial can I wear makeup?

No makeup should be placed on the face for around 1-2 days. However, you should give the face some rest after the treatment. Make sure that you only wash your skin with products that will not irritate your skin during this time.

• What are the possible complications during the IPL photo facial? 

IPL is not known to cause any serious complications, but harm such as skin redness, inflammation, or colour changes may be witnessed. Some of the side effects, such as blistering or scarring, are very rare but are treatable if the proper post-procedure care and consultation are sought.