Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), often called a photofacial, is one of the most effective treatments for reducing sun damage, redness, and pigmentation without invasive downtime. By delivering controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light, IPL targets pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin while leaving the surface intact.
At Dr Rossi, we emphasize that IPL is more than a quick brightening fix—it’s a treatment that requires pre-care and post-care to ensure long-term results. The skin’s barrier, inflammatory response, and tolerance all play a role in how well IPL works.
How IPL Works
Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, IPL uses multiple wavelengths of light. This broad-spectrum energy:
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Targets pigmented cells (like sunspots or freckles) and causes them to break down.
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Reduces vascular redness by collapsing dilated blood vessels.
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Stimulates collagen remodeling for improved texture over time.
Because IPL leaves the outer skin intact, downtime is minimal. But inflammation, redness, and darkening of pigment spots are common—and the way you care for your skin after treatment directly affects recovery.
Pre-Procedure: Setting Skin Up for Success
Healthy, calm skin responds best to IPL. In the two weeks before treatment:
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Pause retinoids and exfoliants. Stop strong actives 5–7 days prior.
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Protect against UV. Sun exposure before IPL increases risk of burns or pigmentation. Daily use of The Day Formula SPF30 weeks before and after treatment is essential.
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Hydrate and strengthen. Using The Solution Essence ensures gentle exfoliation and a smooth canvas without excess sensitivity.
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Avoid tanning or self-tanner. Pigment changes make it harder for the IPL to safely target discoloration.
Post-Procedure: Managing Redness and Pigment Flaking
Immediately after IPL, redness and warmth are expected. Pigmented spots often darken before they shed. Proper care helps minimize inflammation and protect new skin:
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Cleansing: Wash gently with The Purifier to avoid irritation.
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Inflammation control: Apply The Catalyst to calm redness, regulate inflammatory signaling, and support recovery at the cellular level.
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Barrier support: Use The Night Synthesis at night to restore lipids and peptides while skin renews.
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Sun protection: The Day Formula is non-negotiable. Post-IPL skin is highly sensitive to UV and prone to rebound pigmentation.
Recovery Timeline
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Days 1–3: Redness and swelling may occur; brown spots darken. Stick to gentle cleanse + barrier support.
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Days 4–7: Pigmented spots flake off naturally. Avoid picking or scrubbing—allow skin to shed on its own.
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Week 2+: Tone brightens, redness fades, and skin looks clearer. Continue hydration and strict SPF.
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Months 1–3: Collagen stimulation develops gradually, with improvements in fine lines and texture.
Why Inflammation Management Matters
IPL triggers a controlled inflammatory response to break down pigment and vessels. But excessive inflammation can prolong redness, worsen sensitivity, or increase pigmentation risk. The Biotheriac™ Complex, found in The Catalyst and The Night Synthesis, directly targets TRPV1 receptor activity—the pathway responsible for post-procedure inflammation.
In clinical testing, it improved skin tolerance by 68% and reduced redness by 21%—making it a critical part of any photofacial recovery plan.
Final Thoughts
IPL is one of the most effective tools for treating sun damage and redness with minimal downtime, but results are only as good as the care you give your skin before and after. By focusing on barrier strength, inflammation control, and consistent protection, you not only speed recovery—you extend the benefits of your treatment.
At Dr Rossi, we integrate clinical-grade inflammation management into every aftercare plan. Because the best outcomes don’t just come from the device—they come from how your skin is supported as it heals.
IPL Recovery: How to Prep, Heal, and Protect Your Skin After Photofacials
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), often called a photofacial, is one of the most effective treatments for reducing sun damage, redness, and pigmentation without invasive downtime. By delivering controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light, IPL targets pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin while leaving the surface intact.
At Dr Rossi, we emphasize that IPL is more than a quick brightening fix—it’s a treatment that requires pre-care and post-care to ensure long-term results. The skin’s barrier, inflammatory response, and tolerance all play a role in how well IPL works.
How IPL Works
Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, IPL uses multiple wavelengths of light. This broad-spectrum energy:
Because IPL leaves the outer skin intact, downtime is minimal. But inflammation, redness, and darkening of pigment spots are common—and the way you care for your skin after treatment directly affects recovery.
Pre-Procedure: Setting Skin Up for Success
Healthy, calm skin responds best to IPL. In the two weeks before treatment:
Post-Procedure: Managing Redness and Pigment Flaking
Immediately after IPL, redness and warmth are expected. Pigmented spots often darken before they shed. Proper care helps minimize inflammation and protect new skin:
Recovery Timeline
Why Inflammation Management Matters
IPL triggers a controlled inflammatory response to break down pigment and vessels. But excessive inflammation can prolong redness, worsen sensitivity, or increase pigmentation risk. The Biotheriac™ Complex, found in The Catalyst and The Night Synthesis, directly targets TRPV1 receptor activity—the pathway responsible for post-procedure inflammation.
In clinical testing, it improved skin tolerance by 68% and reduced redness by 21%—making it a critical part of any photofacial recovery plan.
Final Thoughts
IPL is one of the most effective tools for treating sun damage and redness with minimal downtime, but results are only as good as the care you give your skin before and after. By focusing on barrier strength, inflammation control, and consistent protection, you not only speed recovery—you extend the benefits of your treatment.
At Dr Rossi, we integrate clinical-grade inflammation management into every aftercare plan. Because the best outcomes don’t just come from the device—they come from how your skin is supported as it heals.