Intense pulsed light (a.k.a. IPL) is becoming more popular
each year as new and improved techniques are being developed
to maximize each patient's experience. IPL is what's commonly
used in laser hair removal, but it has other wonderful
benefits.
What many people don't realize is that intense pulsed light
can also be utilized to treat skin conditions such as rosacea.
Those who suffer from this condition now find relief through
the techniques typically used in laser hair removal.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is an acne-like condition which causes extreme flushing
of the face. The cheeks often become red or rosy and pimples
may appear at times. Rosacea is caused by changes in the
blood vessels of the face that are triggered by either internal
or external sources such as exposure to heat or sunlight,
certain types of foods, and caffeine.
Although the condition differs from one person to another, the
general symptoms are a tendency to flush easily in the face, ears
or even your chest and back. Burning and inflammation may occur
as well. There are no blackheads with the pimple-like bumps that
may appear even though rosacea is considered a type of acne.
Rosacea can often be treated with acne pills or creams, however,
when the condition persists despite these types of treatment,
intense pulsed light can be the next treatment step.
Who Suffers from Rosacea?
Rosacea most often occurs in fair-skinned Caucasians who have
an ivory or porcelain skin color. Although the condition may not be
identified during younger years, it can worsen as the individual becomes
exposed to sun, heat and other triggering elements, thus, causing
the condition to become more obvious as the person ages.
How does IPL Treat Rosacea?
Although not a complete cure, IPL has been clinically proven
to reduce rosacea side effects. During the light therapy,
multiple wavelengths of light are used to treat the dilated
blood vessels of the face. The light penetrates the skin and
blood absorbs the light within the vessels of the targeted area.
The light's heat ultimately destroys the work of the blood
vessel and the vessel eventually becomes nonexistent. The
targeted area is reduced of flushing and redness once the
blood vessels become inactive.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Just like with typical laser hair removal procedures, you
can expect your rosacea IPL treatment to last approximately
fifteen to thirty minutes, depending on how large of an
area is being treated. It is highly recommended that you
repeat the therapy every six weeks for initial success, and
then once per year for treatment of new blood vessels.
Tips for Reducing Rosacea Symptoms
1. Wear sunscreen if you're going to be exposed to sunlight
any length of time. Exposure to sunlight and heat is a major trigger
of rosacea and should be avoided if possible.
2. Cleanse your skin each day using a natural acne treatment
cleanser.
3. Use clinically tested skin creams designed specifically to
help the rosacea condition.
4. If the symptoms persist or worsen, see a specialist to determine
if intense pulsed light is an option.
Each person is different and will require individual counseling
with a laser hair removal specialist to determine the best
avenue and frequency of treatments.
The good news is that IPL therapy opens wide the door of
opportunity for treating difficult conditions such as rosacea.
Written by Candice Pardue