At Arvé Aesthetics in Greenville, SC, we use advanced light-based technology to address a wide range of skin concerns with precision and minimal downtime. IPL treatments use intense pulsed light to target pigmentation, vascular irregularities, and overall skin quality, delivering a clearer, more even complexion without surgery or significant recovery time.
The Science Behind IPL
IPL, or intense pulsed light, works differently from laser treatments. Rather than emitting a single wavelength of light, IPL delivers a broad spectrum of wavelengths that can be absorbed by different targets in the skin simultaneously. This makes it exceptionally versatile, allowing a single treatment to address multiple concerns in one session.
When light energy is absorbed by pigment in the skin or by the hemoglobin in blood vessels, it is converted to heat. This heat selectively destroys targeted cells, such as those containing excess pigment, or causes dilated capillaries and vascular lesions to collapse and fade, all without damaging the surrounding tissue.
At Arvé Aesthetics, IPL photofacial treatments are performed using the Stellar M22 by Lumenis, one of the most advanced and clinically validated IPL platforms available.
Aesthetic Concerns Treated
- Age Spots and Sun Damage:targets melanin in sun-damaged areas to significantly reduce the appearance of discoloration caused by UV exposure and aging
- Rosacea and Facial Redness: reduces the flushed appearance of rosacea by targeting the dilated capillaries responsible for persistent redness
- Freckles and Hyperpigmentation: breaks up excess pigment to fade freckles and other forms of uneven skin tone
- Acne and Post-Acne Redness: reduces active inflammation and addresses the residual redness associated with acne and post-inflammatory changes
- Vascular Lesions:Vascular Lesions: treats broken capillaries and spider veins by causing them to collapse and fade
- Overall Skin Quality: improves tone, clarity, and luminosity for a more refreshed and even complexion
What to Expect
Consultation
Before your first IPL treatment, your provider will assess your skin type, discuss your concerns, and confirm that IPL is the most appropriate approach for your goals. A test spot is performed on every patient prior to beginning a full treatment series to confirm skin tolerance and ensure the safest possible outcome. Because IPL targets pigment and vascular structures, skin type and recent sun exposure are important factors in treatment planning. Your provider will customize the settings to your specific skin at every session.
The Procedure
You will be provided with protective eyewear before treatment begins. A cooling gel is applied to the skin to enhance comfort and protect the surface. The Stellar M22 handpiece is then applied to the skin and a pulse of light is delivered to the treatment area. Most patients describe the sensation as a light snap or warm pinprick. Sessions typically take 20 to 30 minutes depending on the area being treated.
How Many Treatments are Needed?
Some improvement may be visible after a single session, but most patients benefit from a series of 3 to 5 treatments spaced approximately one month apart for optimal results. The exact number depends on the specific concerns being addressed and how your skin responds to treatment. Your provider will recommend a personalized plan during your consultation.
Aftercare
Following treatment, mild redness and warmth in the treated area are normal and typically resolve within a few hours. To protect your skin and maintain your results:
- Sun Protection: apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily and avoid direct sun exposure. Sun exposure following IPL can reverse results and increase the risk of further pigmentation changes.
- Gentle Skincare: use mild, soothing skincare products and avoid exfoliants, alcohol-based products, and anything abrasive for at least one week following treatment
- Avoid Heat: avoid hot baths, saunas, and excessive heat for the first few days as heat can intensify redness and swelling
- Stay Hydrated:keep the skin hydrated with a fragrance-free moisturizer to support healing and enhance results
- Attend Follow-Up Sessions: completing your recommended series and attending follow-up appointments ensures the best long-term outcome
Clearer, More Even Skin
IPL photofacial treatments offer a versatile, non-invasive solution for patients looking to address pigmentation, redness, vascular concerns, and overall skin quality without surgery or significant downtime. With physician-led care and the precision of the Stellar M22 platform, every treatment at Arvé Aesthetics is tailored to your skin and your goals.
To schedule a consultation at Arvé Aesthetics in Greenville, SC, contact our team at (864) 696-2234 or use our online booking link.