IPL Photofacial · Prescott, AZ
More even, brighter-looking skin — with little to no downtime
Arizona sun is beautiful — and hard on skin. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses broad-spectrum light to target brown pigment and redness, helping skin look clearer and more even-toned. Most patients go right back to their day.
What IPL may help with
- Sun spots, age spots and freckling
- Redness and flushing from rosacea
- Small visible blood vessels on the face
- Uneven, blotchy skin tone
Treatment areas: face, neck, chest, hands, arms
How it works
Unlike a laser, which uses one wavelength, IPL delivers a range of light wavelengths filtered for your concern. The light is absorbed by pigment and by hemoglobin in small vessels. Dark spots usually darken and flake off over 1–2 weeks; redness gradually fades as the targeted vessels are cleared by your body.
What to expect
- Treatment: 20–30 minutes. Each pulse feels like a quick snap of a rubber band with a flash of light.
- Afterward: mild redness for a few hours; brown spots look darker ("coffee grounds") before flaking off in about a week.
- Series: most patients need 3–5 sessions spaced about four weeks apart, then occasional maintenance.
Who is a good candidate?
IPL works best on lighter skin tones with visible spots or redness. It is generally not recommended for:
- Deeper skin tones (higher risk of burns and pigment changes) — we'll suggest alternatives
- Recently tanned skin or self-tanner use
- Pregnancy
- Certain photosensitizing medications, including retinoids, some antibiotics, NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen/Aleve), diuretics, some blood pressure medications, antifungals and some antihistamines
- Unevaluated or changing moles — any suspicious spot should be checked by a dermatologist first
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IPL the same as a laser?
No. Both use light, but IPL is broad-spectrum and lasers use a single focused wavelength. Each has strengths.
Can I do IPL in summer?
It's best done when you can stay out of the sun before and after treatment. Fall and winter are ideal in Prescott.
Will the spots come back?
New sun exposure creates new spots. Daily sunscreen and a yearly maintenance session help keep results.
Let's Talk About Your Goals
Every plan starts with an honest consultation — what you'd like to change, what's realistic, and what's right for you.
371 Garden St, Suite A · Prescott, AZ 86305 · By Appointment Only
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. A consultation is required before treatment.