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IPL

Intense-Pulsed Light in Vancouver with Dr. Jeannie MacDonald

Intense-Pulsed Light (IPL), also known as an IPL photofacial, is a non-surgical treatment to help restore the appearance of your skin, targeting sun damage, age spots, melasma, acne, and even unwanted hair. IPL procedures aim to restore your radiant-looking appearance, skin tone, and confidence. 

You deserve a provider with unparalleled skills and an artistic eye who takes the time to understand your needs and aesthetic aims. Dr. MacDonald and her aesthetic technicians are highly trained and prepared to deliver the most favorable IPL results in Vancouver.  

Refresh your appearance with one of the most sought-after intense-pulsed light providers in Vancouver! Contact MacDonald Plastic Surgery at (604) 288-8517 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation today. We are located in New Westminster and are dedicated to serving plastic, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery patients in the Lower Mainland and Greater Vancouver area.

What is IPL in Vancouver?

Intense-Pulsed Light (IPL) is very similar to laser treatments. Unlike lasers, however, IPL releases many different wavelengths of light at your skin like a photo flash. Sometimes called a “lunchtime laser,” IPL treatments are virtually painless and require little to no downtime. Patients can return to their normal activities almost immediately following treatment. 

Without causing damage to the top layer of the skin and surrounding tissue, IPL penetrates to the second layer to diminish the appearance of unwanted pigment cells. The heat from the IPL treatment fragments unwanted pigment like freckles or sunspots, which the body reabsorbs over the following weeks.

Overall, IPL improves the appearance of sun-damaged skin and addresses spots, freckles, and redness. IPL is also an effective treatment for removing unwanted hair by breaking down hair follicles to prevent hair growth.

With no downtime, IPL can help improve the appearance of skin conditions such as:

  • Acne and acne scars
  • Birthmarks
  • Stretch marks
  • Sun damage
  • Broken blood vessels
  • Liver or age spots
  • Melasma
  • Freckles
  • Redness from rosacea
  • Scars
  • Spider veins
  • Unwanted hair

Generally, IPL subtly improves skin’s appearance over a series of treatments. Typically, a series of 5 treatments spaced a month apart is recommended to achieve optimal results. 

While IPL works for most people, it is not recommended for people with darker skin tones or those inclined to get thick, raised keloid scars. IPL is also more effective at removing darker hair than light-colored hair.

What Are the Benefits of IPL in Vancouver?

Skin damage can negatively impact our self-esteem. However, IPL is an effective non-invasive treatment to help restore and rejuvenate your skin to reclaim your natural, youthful glow. With no downtime, IPL can enhance your appearance.

IPL aims to produce a radiant, more even skin tone while reducing the appearance of: 

  • Sun or age spots
  • Melasma
  • Redness
  • Freckles

IPL is often used in the areas people most notice sun damage, such as:

  • Face
  • Neck
  • Chest
  • Hands
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Am I A Good Candidate for IPL in Vancouver?

During your consultation with Dr. MacDonald’s aesthetic technician, they will discuss your goals and recommend the number of IPL treatments necessary to achieve your desired results. On average, a series of 5 IPL treatments spaced 1 month apart is recommended. 

Overall, healthy women and men in Vancouver are good candidates for IPL. Dr. MacDonald recommends that candidates for IPL should:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Not be pregnant or nursing
  • Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook
  • Be prepared to closely follow pre- and post-procedure instructions

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Combining her unique surgical expertise with her artistic understanding of balance and proportion, Dr. Jeannie MacDonald brings out the most naturally beautiful you. Meet Dr. MacDonald today to learn more.

Your IPL Consultation

Prior to your consultation, Dr. MacDonald suggests you read about IPL treatments to better understand the basic steps of the process before learning more during your consultation.

During your Vancouver IPL consultation, Dr. MacDonald’s aesthetic technician will: 

  • listen to your goals and concerns
  • conduct a thorough examination of your skin
  • review your medical history
  • consider all skin rejuvenation options before determining your candidacy
  • be honest about how you can achieve your goals and explain the options that best address your specific concerns. 
  • provide detailed information about what to expect before, during, and after the procedure
  • discuss potential risks of the procedure
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Before you leave, your technician will ensure you feel comfortable making informed decisions about your IPL procedure. Our compassion, honesty, and passion for her craft make her one of the top choices for IPL in Vancouver.

What Can I Expect During an IPL Procedure?

Dr. MacDonald’s team carefully customizes all IPL procedures to gain the most favorable results for each patient. Some general steps you can expect are:

Prior to Your Procedure

For 2 weeks prior to your IPL procedure, we may suggest that you avoid: Direct sunlight or tanning beds, Waxing, Chemical peels, Collagen injections, Drugs that increase bleeding risks, Skincare products containing vitamin A

Check-in and Anesthesia

Our team will greet you for check-in. Your aesthetic technician will ensure you are comfortable, answer any last questions, and evaluate the treatment area. You may be given a topical numbing agent that takes approximately 10-15 minutes to activate.

IPL Procedure

You will be given dark glasses to protect your eyes. We will clean your skin and apply a gel. Then, the technician will guide the IPL device along the treatment area. While IPL treatments are well-tolerated, some patients experience a slight sting compared to the snap of a rubber band. Typically, an IPL procedure takes 20-30 minutes; however, larger areas may take an hour or longer.

IPL Aftercare

Non-invasive IPL procedures require minimal downtime. Following the procedure, most patients can return to normal activities. However, you should protect your skin with sunscreen and sun-protective clothing when direct sunlight is unavoidable. You may experience mild swelling or redness like that of a sunburn following your IPL in Vancouver treatment. However, these should subside within 1-2 days. As with any procedure, following your provided instructions regarding physical activity limitation, cleansing, and sun exposure is fundamental to ensuring optimal results from IPL in Vancouver.

How Soon Will I See My Vancouver IPL Results?

Generally, the improvement of your skin’s appearance is subtle and takes a series of IPL treatments to achieve your desired results gradually. You will notice your initial IPL treatment results after approximately 1-2 weeks. Your IPL results will continue improving for 3-6 months as collagen production improves. Final results appear 4-6 weeks following your last treatment.

A proper skincare routine including ongoing maintenance IPL treatment every 4-6 months and sun protection is a must. These together will give your skin the best chance for a longer-lasting, smoother, more youthful look.

Schedule Your IPL Consultation Today!

Enjoy your natural-looking, long-lasting results and the confidence boost you will get at MacDonald Plastic Surgery!  Ready to partner with one of Vancouver’s most sought-after IPL providers? Contact MacDonald Plastic Surgery at (604) 288-8517 or complete our online form to schedule your Vancouver IPL consultation today.

Vancouver Intense Pulse Light FAQs

Your IPL cost in Vancouver is determined by your needs, the areas to be treated, and the number of treatments necessary to achieve your desired results. Following your consultation, Dr. MacDonald’s assistant will provide a detailed breakdown of your IPL cost in Vancouver.

IPL procedures are usually quick, 20-30 minutes, with minimal discomfort. Typically, you will be treated with a topical anesthetic to help minimize discomfort during and after the procedure. However, during your consultation, be sure to discuss your pain concerns with Dr. MacDonald’s aesthetic technician.

Typically, with proper skin care and sun protection following your IPL treatment, your results can last for years. However, each patient will experience varied results.

You should avoid strenuous activities for approximately 24-48 hours following your Vancouver IPL treatment.