Intense Pulsed Light [How does it work?]

Intense Pulsed Light is considered the gold standard treatment for rosacea. However, a common question among patients who visit our clinic is how this treatment actually works. That’s why, in this article, we’ll explain in detail how we apply Intense Pulsed Light, the recommended number of sessions, and other important aspects of this procedure. Check it out!

How Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Works?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non‑invasive aesthetic treatment that uses beams of light to address various skin conditions such as pigmentation spots, enlarged blood vessels, acne, and signs of aging.

The procedure emits light across multiple wavelengths, which penetrate the skin and reach specific targets such as melanin or blood vessels, promoting their controlled destruction. In some cases, where the patient has slightly larger vessels, an alternate applicator called Nd‑YAG is used to target and dismantle those vessels as well.

The application is quick—sessions last about 30 minutes—and require minimal post‑treatment care. A qualified professional assessment is essential to ensure both safety and effective results.

How Many IPL Sessions Are Needed?

We typically recommend five IPL sessions, spaced one month apart. For the procedure, the patient must not have a suntanned skin; hence, we advise avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen.

The process is generally very comfortable—patients feel heat due to the intensity of the light. To maximize comfort, we apply a topical anesthetic approximately one hour before the session.

When Do the First Results Appear?

Patients often begin to notice improvements after the first session. We increase the device’s power in subsequent sessions, and results tend to become progressively better.

Although we cannot promise 100% correction, significant skin enhancements are common. Typically, patients experience reduced erythema and redness, improved skin resilience, and reduced sensitivity. Maintenance sessions can be scheduled as needed if symptoms recur

It’s important to highlight that IPL is a powerful treatment and must be used with caution. At our clinic, we use the Harmony platform, a globally recognized device, and have been applying IPL for over 20 years. If improperly used by an inexperienced professional, IPL may cause burns or blisters.

When performed correctly, IPL is very safe—patients may have mild redness that usually resolves within the same day .

Contact

Clínica de Pele has specialized in dermatological treatments in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969. Dr. Szerman has over 20 years of experience and also teaches other doctors.

About the Author

Dr. Guilherme Szerman

Dr. Guilherme Szerman is a physician based in Rio de Janeiro, graduated from Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and with postgraduate training in dermatology from Hospital da Gamboa (Santa Casa de Misericórdia). He is a member of the Brazilian Society of Laser and participates in numerous aesthetic dermatology and laser medicine congresses. With over 20 years of medical experience, he teaches courses for novice doctors.