IPL For Pigmentation

Pigmentation, age spots and freckles are typically caused by sun exposure or the natural ageing process. They can vary considerably in size, shape and depth, and be raised or flat. Pigmentation is extremely common on the face, neck, décolletage, and back of the hands.

IPL, also known as Intense Pulsed Light, is an effective skin pigmentation treatment. The light emitted is attracted to the pigmented target, the heat reaction caused, breaks down into tiny particles and darkens the pigmentation beneath the skin. This pigment then lifts to the surface and can form a slight crust/flaking to the skin, which will naturally slough away within 7-10 days. However it’s worth noting that we recommend waiting 4 weeks before the clinical end point. It is a safe, precise and very effective way to eliminate pigmentation and unwanted freckles. 

Our state-of-the-art IPL pigmentation machines can treat skin types 1-3 on the Fitzpatrick classification. Skin type 1 is extremely fair skin that usually burns.

• Rejuvenates the skin
• Non-invasive
• Helps reduce skin redness
• Quick & convenient 
• Stimulates collagen production
• Creates a youthful appearance
• Painless treatment
• Ideal for sensitive skin

Initial Pigmentation Consultation

At your initial consultation at the clinic, we will examine your skin to understand what you are looking to treat. This way, they can look at your areas of pigmentation and decide the best treatment plan.

We will then discuss the suitable treatment options with you and carry out an IPL treatment skin patch test. This patch test is for your well-being and safety, and we cannot treat you without it, even if you have had previous IPL pigmentation treatments elsewhere.

It is important to avoid the sun during your IPL treatment for pigmentation and for 30 days afterwards. If you are going on holiday, please let us know at your initial consultation so that we can plan around it with plenty of time.

If you are using Retin-A, retinol, topical exfoliators or acids, we recommend you stop using them 7 days before your IPL pigmentation appointment to prevent any extra sensitivity. We also recommend you do not have IPL treatment for pigmentation if you have a tan, even if it is fake. This is because a tan may interfere with the targeting of the brown pigment, also known as melanin.

. Get in touch with us today to find out more or book in for a consultation, skin assessment and patch test, with one of our IPL specialists.

Your IPL Pigmentation Appointment

IPL treatments for pigmentation usually take around 20-45 minutes, depending on the areas being treated. This includes preparing the skin pre-treatment and any aftercare procedures. First, we gently cleanse the skin to remove any makeup or dirt. We then apply a room temperature ultra-sound gel to the skin. You will also be asked to wear protective eye goggles for your safety.

Most clients describe IPL as uncomfortable rather than painful, comparing the treatment to a rubber band snapping against the skin for a brief second combined with a feeling of warmth. Feel confident knowing that your IPL treatment for pigmentation at our Kensington or Wimbledon Central London clinics is relatively pain free.

Immediately after your treatment, it is normal for the skin to be a little red. Our IPL pigmentation specialist will apply a soothing room temperature aloe vera gel. We will then apply a high SPF sunscreen. It is important that you avoid sun exposure before, during and after IPL treatment for pigmentation, so sunscreen is essential. If you do have to spend a prolonged time outside, we recommend that you seek shade and wear a hat.

After Your IPL Pigmentation Treatment

A little redness, like sunburn, is common after the IPL treatment for pigmentation, and occasionally clients experience slight swelling, which usually goes down after 24-48 hours.

The heat breaks this pigment down into tiny particles, which rise to the skin’s surface, causing the pigmentation to darken initially. After this, scabs, crusts and possible flaking will form. This will naturally slough away within 7-10 days.

To successfully treat pigmentation with IPL, we usually recommend 3-6 appointments, one month apart. Our IPL specialists will assess how many treatments are needed when you visit our Kensington or Wimbledon clinics.

After treatment, the pigmentation will appear light, if not gone. That said, you will need to protect your skin from further sun damage to prevent new pigmentation issues from forming. Any new pigmentation, age spots or freckles that develop can also be treated with IPL.