What you should know before undergoing IPL
Intense Pulsed Light treatments in the right hands are an effective, non-invasive procedure used to permanently reduce unwanted hair and improve many skin conditions. Unfortunately, IPL is currently unregulated in Australia and anyone without knowledge of the skin or basic light physics is able to provide these treatments. In the wrong hands it can cause burns, permanent scarring and long term complications (as pictured below) or result in money wasted on ineffective treatments.
We have compiled this information for you to ensure that you are fully informed when deciding on a provider for your IPL treatments.
At CosMedical Skin Solutions all our Dermal Therapists have formal qualifications in Cosmetic Dermal Science, which includes comprehensive training in IPL and Laser physics, safety and procedures. We also perform free test spots prior to your procedure to further reduce the risk of complications and optimise your treatment outcomes.
Don’t let this happen to you!
The above images of IPL burns are some of many that were found on public sites on the internet
What should you look for when deciding to have IPL treatments?
- The person treating you has formal qualifications displayed with a reputable training organisation in IPL/Laser safety and procedures. Not just the machine distributors training.
- Experience counts. Completely different results can occur with the same machine performed by different operators. A knowledgeable and experienced therapist will know why, when and what to change the treatment settings to for optimal results and safety. Ensure your therapist has extensive experience treating various skin types, conditions, hair colour and thickness.
- Not all IPL machines are the same. They differ in power, spot size, wavelength, speed, contact cooling, pulse width and numerous other factors affecting the outcome.
- IPL equipment must be ‘listed’ on the Australian register of Therapeutic Goods. IPL equipment not listed on this register is illegal and will not be covered by insurance.
Have a comprehensive consultation with your treatment provider. You should discuss and be provided with written information including:
- How IPL works
- Are you a suitable candidate?
- Possible complications
- Realistic treatment outcomes
- Skin preparation
- Post treatment changes
- Approximate number of treatments and interval times
- See before and after photographs of their actual patients and
- Confidently answer any other questions you may have.
- Test spots should be performed on the treatment area within the 3 days prior to your treatment. This will give a basic idea on how the skin will react at the settings used and helps to reduce the risk of complications and optimise treatment outcomes.
- IPL can cause eye injury. Ensure approved IPL eye safety glasses, goggles or shields are worn by you and the operator during treatments.
- IPL when effective is NOT painless!
- You generally get what you pay for. IPL machines can vary in price from $5,000 to $200,000. When price shopping, be aware that if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t get caught spending more in the long run on ineffective treatments.
- Most of all, you should feel comfortable and confident with the person performing your treatments.
Why have IPL treatments at CosMedical Skin Solutions?