Does IPL remove dark spots?

Author: Mrs. Anissa Green II  |  Last update: Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Most clients who receive IPL treatment come in looking for a solution to blotchy, uneven skin. IPL is a non-ablative procedure (which means it doesn't create physical injury to the surface of the skin) that can eliminate age spots, sun damage, and redness in the skin.

How long does it take for IPL to remove dark spots?

And within 2 – 5 days after your IPL photofacial, the dark spots and other bits of hyperpigmentation will begin to rise to the surface of the skin. Then, over the following couple of weeks or so, the blemishes that have bugged you will be naturally exfoliated from the skin's surface.

Can IPL reduce dark spots?

IPL treatments work very well to reduce and remove brown and red spots on the skin and create an overall better complexion. However, as this treatment has “minimal or no downtime”, it is necessary to do 3-5 treatments to achieve the very best results.

Can you see results after 1 IPL treatment?

The number of IPL sessions required depends on the skin condition being treated and individual skin type. While improvements can be seen after a single session, conditions like active acne or fine lines may require multiple sessions for significant results.

Is IPL worth it for hyperpigmentation?

IPL is a proven, successful, and non-invasive treatment option to remove dark spots. While IPL removes dark spots and hyperpigmentation, it has multiple benefits, such as treating and eliminating the following conditions.

What is IPL? Is it better than a laser? Dr Davin Lim, Dermatologist explains

What is the downside of IPL?

One of the most significant concerns associated with IPL treatment is the risk of burns or skin discoloration, particularly in people with darker skin tones. This risk stems from the procedure's reliance on light absorption, which can lead to excessive heat in areas with higher melanin concentrations.

Does pigmentation come back after IPL?

Indeed, following laser treatments for pigmentation, there is a possibility of the pigmentation returning. This can occur due to various elements like exposure to sunlight, shifts in hormones, and the unique reactions of an individual's skin.

What are the black dots after IPL?

What Are the Black Dots? The small black dots you may notice post-laser treatment are often referred to as “pepper spots” or “hair cast”. Essentially, they are tiny remnants of hair follicles that remain trapped in the skin as your body works to expel them.

Which is better, IPL or microneedling?

IPL Photofacial is More Effective at Treating Melasma

Microneedling, on the other hand, promotes collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles—but it's not as effective at treating melasma.

How much does IPL cost?

IPL session prices can vary widely, from about $200 to $1200 per session. This broad range is due to factors such as the size of the treatment area and the specific skin concerns being addressed. For example, a full-face treatment might cost more than targeting a smaller area like the hands or neck.

Who is not a good candidate for IPL?

Who's not a good candidate for IPL photofacials? People with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4-6) or tanned skin and people with deep wrinkles, scars or severe acne or active rosacea.

What happens if you use IPL too often?

IPL is most effective while your hair is in the growth phase –if you treat your skin multiple times a week, your hair can become dormant and IPL treatment won't work as well. Additionally, while IPL is a gentle treatment, too much of it can be a bad thing. If you use IPL too frequently, you may irritate your skin.

Does IPL age your skin?

The IPL Photofacial is a skin treatment that can reduce the appearance of damage and subtract years from your complexion. IPL, also known as Intense Pulsed Light therapy or the photo facial, uses cutting edge technology to produce younger-looking skin that's firmer and more even in tone and texture.

Is IPL really worth it?

Some scientific studies have shown that IPL can effectively reduce redness associated with rosacea. Other studies have confirmed that IPL can significantly improve facial skin with fine wrinkles, uneven texture, and dark spots.

How to tell if an IPL is working?

You will notice that the hair growth after four weeks of IPL treatment will be lesser and thinner. After completing a session of 12 weeks, the hair growth will reduce completely, providing you with silky, smooth skin for a longer time. However, you may have to continue touch-ups as needed.

What moisturizer to use after IPL?

POST-TREATMENT CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Apply Calendula cream/lotion to treated areas at least 3 times a day for at least 48 hours after treatment. An oral, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen such as Advil®) or an analgesic (acetaminophen such as Tylenol®) may be taken to reduce discomfort.

What is the downside of IPL treatment?

Although side effects of IPL are typically rare and minimal in severity, the most common adverse events include pain and erythema. Other reported side effects include edema, bullae, hematoma, crusting, hyper- or hypopigmentation, leukotrichia, scarring, keloid formation, and infection.

Is BBL or IPL better for brown spots?

Choosing between BBL vs IPL ultimately depends on your skin's specific needs: Choose IPL if your primary concerns are redness, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Choose BBL if you want a more advanced treatment that addresses pigmentation, acne scars, and signs of aging while rejuvenating your skin from within.

Can microneedling get rid of dark spots?

Microneedling is a medical treatment that uses tiny needles to puncture the skin. Dermatologists use it to diminish: Acne scars. Dark spots.

Does IPL permanently remove age spots?

Age Spots Photofacial

Lumecca is a photofacial skin rejuvenation treatment that comfortably uses intense pulse light (IPL) to permanently remove age spots, sun damage, vascular lesions, rosacea, and freckles. Look years younger by improving the complexion and clarity of your skin.

Is IPL eventually permanent?

Many people report they achieve permanent hair reduction after just a few treatments. However, some people may require touch-ups every few years to keep those hair bulbs from sprouting out new follicles. IPL hair removal treatments are a great way to achieve long-lasting results without the hassle of shaving or waxing.

How long does it take dark spots to fade after IPL?

The temporary darkening occurs if there is brown pigment in the upper layers of your skin. The darkened area typically begins to fade in 7 to 14 days. This is when you'll also begin to notice that many superficial brown spots around the treated area are becoming lighter, and less noticeable.

What happens if you use retinol after IPL?

Applying retinol prematurely may cause irritation, redness, or slow down the healing process. Give your skin time to rebuild its natural barrier before reintroducing these products.

Does IPL tighten skin?

While IPL is especially useful for reducing pigmentation in the skin, the heat it generates can stimulate cell turnover and collagen production in the skin. This can have the effect of tightening areas of loose, crepey or lax skin and smoothing fine wrinkles.

Does IPL get rid of stubble?

When using IPL, you'll need to shave less and less as your treatments go on. As the hair follicles will be empty, you'll notice fewer ingrown hairs and less stubble 'shadow'. IPL treatment helps to smooth out the texture of your skin, whereas waxing or threading can cause inflammation.

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