What Happens During an IPL Treatment? A Step-by-Step Breakdown
If you are new to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments, it is normal to feel curious — and even a little unsure — about what to expect. The good news is IPL is one of the most comfortable and efficient skin treatments available, and the experience is designed to feel smooth, controlled, and reassuring from start to finish.
At Core Aesthetic, we combine medical precision with a calm, supportive experience so you feel confident every step of the way
Step 1: Professional Skin Evaluation
Every appointment begins with a detailed skin assessment. Your provider examines your tone, pigmentation patterns, sensitivity levels, and goals. This allows us to choose the correct wavelength, energy settings, and treatment plan for your skin type and concern. Your skin is then thoroughly cleansed to remove any residue and prepare for treatment.
Step 2: Protection and Comfort
Safety is essential. You will receive protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the light pulses. A thin layer of cooling gel is applied to the treatment area to keep the skin comfortable and help the device glide smoothly. Patients often describe this part as relaxing and spa-like.
Step 3: Light Pulses for Pigment and Redness
The IPL device delivers precise flashes of light that feel like quick snaps of gentle warmth. Each pulse targets unwanted pigment, redness, and tiny visible vessels beneath the surface. Surrounding skin remains unharmed. A full-face treatment typically takes about 20 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Step 4: Post-Treatment Care and Results Timeline
Afterward, the gel is removed and a calming serum and sunscreen are applied. Your skin may look slightly flushed for a few hours, similar to a fresh workout glow. Over the next three to seven days, dark spots may temporarily deepen before flaking away. As they lift, skin looks brighter, clearer, and more even.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
IPL works best for fair to medium skin tones. Deeper skin tones may require alternative devices to avoid pigmentation risk. We review your medical history, medications, products, and recent sun exposure before treatment to ensure safety.
Why Patients Love IPL
No peeling. No major downtime. Just consistent improvement in clarity, tone, and radiance — with results that build over a series of sessions and maintenance cycles.
