Brown spots, facial redness, visible vessels, and uneven coloring can remain even when you follow a consistent skin care routine. An IPL photofacial uses controlled pulses of light to treat selected pigments beneath the skin’s surface, helping the complexion appear clearer and more even.
At West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center, IPL treatments are performed with BBL® HERO™ by Sciton, an advanced form of intense pulsed light. This treatment is included among our cosmetic dermatology services (opens in new tab) in South Charleston, WV. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. David W. Judy leads the practice, supported by our team, and additional offices in Barboursville and Beckley.
What Is IPL?
IPL stands for intense pulsed light. A traditional laser generally uses one concentrated wavelength, while IPL sends a broader range of wavelengths into the skin. Filters allow the provider to select light that interacts with particular colors.
Brown pigment absorbs certain wavelengths, while redness and visible vessels respond to others. The treated pigment is gradually cleared or becomes less noticeable as the skin recovers.
BBL stands for BroadBand Light. BBL HERO is Sciton’s advanced IPL platform, with settings that can be changed according to the treatment area and skin concern.
What Can an IPL Photofacial Treat?
BBL HERO may be used for concerns related to pigmentation, redness, and sun exposure, including:
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Sun spots and age spots
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Freckles
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Uneven skin coloring
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Facial redness
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Rosacea-related redness
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Small visible vessels
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Selected acne-related concerns
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General photodamage
IPL isn’t a substitute for evaluating a new or changing skin growth. Brown spots should be examined when their diagnosis is uncertain before a cosmetic device is used over them.
The treatment also isn’t suitable for every type of pigmentation. Your provider will assess your skin tone, recent sun exposure, medical history, and the cause of the discoloration.
What Happens During BBL HERO Treatment?
Your skin is cleaned, and protective eyewear is used. The BBL handpiece passes over the selected area while pulses of light are delivered. You may feel quick warmth or a snapping sensation with each pulse.
Treatment time depends on the size and number of areas. BBL HERO can be used on the face as well as sun-exposed parts of the body, such as the neck, chest, hands, arms, or back, when appropriate.
Your provider will explain how many sessions to consider. Some concerns improve after one visit, while more extensive redness or sun damage may require a series.
What Is Recovery Like After IPL?
Temporary redness, warmth, or mild swelling can occur. Brown spots may initially look darker before gradually flaking or fading. Don’t pick at darkened areas.
Sun protection is essential before and after IPL. A recent tan can increase the risk of burns or pigment changes, so follow the practice’s instructions about sun exposure and self-tanning products.
You may also need to pause retinoids, acids, exfoliants, or medications that increase light sensitivity. Tell your provider about everything you use before the appointment.
Why Choose West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center for IPL in South Charleston?
IPL settings must be selected with skin tone, pigment depth, redness, and medical history in mind. West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center combines Sciton BBL HERO technology with care led by Dr. Judy, a board-certified dermatologist.
The team can also determine when a spot should be medically examined rather than treated cosmetically. That distinction is particularly important when working with pigmented lesions or persistent redness that hasn’t been formally diagnosed.
Clear Away Visible Sun Damage and Redness
Find out whether BBL HERO can improve the coloring concerns you see in your skin. Contact us to arrange an IPL consultation with West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center in South Charleston, WV, or call (304) 925-7546.