IPL skin rejuvenation

Intense pulsed light treatment for sun-related pigmentation, freckling and
vascular redness, at our Mermaid Waters clinic. Treated pigment darkens and crusts for
about a week afterwards.

How IPL works

IPL delivers pulses of light energy that are absorbed by pigment in the skin. It is used
for sun spots, freckling, and redness including some vascular conditions.

Who it is suitable for

Because IPL targets pigment, it is most effective for sun-related pigmentation, freckling
and vascular redness. It is less suitable for deeper skin tones, and cannot be performed
on recently tanned skin or skin with fake tan on it. Melasma often responds poorly to IPL
and can worsen. A patch test is required before your first treatment, and some people are
not suitable candidates.

How many treatments

A course of 4–6 treatments at about four-week intervals is commonly recommended. The
number appropriate for you is decided at consultation and reviewed as you go.

Risks, recovery and what to expect

This is a considered decision

IPL uses light energy absorbed by pigment in the skin. It carries a real risk of burns and pigmentation change, and it is not suitable for everyone.

Common effects

Redness and warmth immediately afterwards, often like mild sunburn for several hours
Treated pigment darkens and forms a crust that flakes away over about a week
Itching as the treated skin heals

Less common and serious risks

Burns and blistering
Temporary or lasting change in skin pigmentation
Scarring — rare
Worsening of melasma

Recovery

Plan for the darkening and crusting to be visible for about a week. Do not book close to an event. Do not pick or scratch the treated skin. Sun protection afterwards is essential; UV exposure after treatment can worsen pigmentation.

Pain

Each pulse feels like a sharp snap against the skin. Pain thresholds differ and some people find IPL uncomfortable, particularly over bony areas.

Outcomes and how long they last

Individual responses vary. Pigmentation can return with further sun exposure, and maintenance treatments are commonly needed.

Individual responses and results vary. The outcome experienced by one
person does not necessarily reflect what another person will experience. Some people see
little or no change. We cannot and do not guarantee an outcome.

Who performs this treatment

Skin treatments at our clinic are performed by our skin therapists, Aymie Lottier
and Alisha Roth. They are not registered health practitioners and do not perform
cosmetic injection or thread procedures.

Book a consultation

Every procedure begins with a consultation at our Mermaid Waters clinic, where we
assess whether it is appropriate for you, explain the risks and recovery, and give
you a written treatment plan including costs. Attending a consultation does not mean
a procedure will be recommended — sometimes we advise against one, and cosmetic
procedures are not the only way to address concerns about appearance.

Contact the clinic · 07 5616 8481