IPL Intense Pulsed Light

Short safe flashes of light are used to treat a variety of issues. In all cases a pre treatment consultation and patch test patch are required, this does require an appointment as the consultation process can take up to 30 minutes. The consultation is extremely important as it allows you to fully understand the treatment process and it enables the therapist to assess your suitability for the treatment.

 

Hair Reduction

Contrary to popular opinion, this (and all other similar LASER & IPL treatments) are hair reduction and not hair removal treatments. Typically a 60% to 90% reduction in the growth and thickness of the hair can be achieved. The treatment requires the pigment or colour in the hair shaft to 'channel' the light energy down the shaft and into the hair follicle. Once in the follicle the light energy is converted into heat, this heat damages the follicle thus inhibiting future growth. Fair, blond, grey or white hair has little to no pigment thus cannot be treated with this procedure, alternatives are available. In addition, the treatment is only effective while the hair is actively growing, given that only 10% to 30% of hair is actively growing at any one time multiple treatments are required. Future tops may also be required to maintain optimal results. Nonetheless the treatment is much quicker and less painful than alternatives such as electrolysis.

Thread Veins / Facial Redness

Thread veins or vascular lesions, are abnormally large or dilated blood vessels situated close to the skins surface giving rise to unwanted red pigmentation. The successful removal of all vascular lesions depends on the absorption of the light from the system hand piece by the blood cells. The light energy causes the blood cells to heat up. The heat then diffuses outwards either destroying the cells that make up the blood vessel wall or clotting the blood to stop the flow so that the individual vessels die. The dead cells are then removed by the body in the normal way.

It is important to note that individuals that are prone to developing thread veins will continue to do so after treatment, thus future 'top-up' treatments will likely be required.

A similar condition know as Rosacea that gives rise to diffuse facial redness may also be treated, however a combination therapy may be recommended in addition to a ban of possible diet and lifestyle triggers. Your therapist can advise you during the consultation process.

Acne Treatment

Typically this is part of an overall plan which may incorporate AFA skincare with the IPL Acne treatment. The IPL treatment results in the introduction of oxygen into the affected areas. The bacteria in theese areas cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. On its own this treatment does not prevent acne breakouts but it is very effective for clearing currently infected areas. In combination with AFAs as a daily skincare program and AFA peels we have achieved some very good results. A consultation is required prior to treatment to assess your suitability virtually any area can be treated such as the face, chest and back.

Skin Rejuvenation

An excellent treatment that promotes the production of collagen and reduces fine lines. In this treatment the light energy is used to heat the upper layers of the skin. This process 'fools' the skin into its repair function, the by product of which is the production of collagen and elastin.