Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
IPL (Lumecca, BBL)
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Pricing
- Upper East SideStarting at $450 per area
- Downtown BrooklynStarting at $450 per area
- GreenvaleStarting at $450 per area
- BoulderStarting at $450 per area
IPL (intense pulsed light) uses flashes of light that are absorbed by brown spots and small blood vessels. The spots darken and flake away, and redness fades, leaving a more even tone.
We use two IPL devices: Lumecca by InMode and BBL (BroadBand Light) by Sciton. Your provider will choose the one that fits your skin and goals.
What it treats
- Sun spots and age spots
- Freckles and uneven tone
- Redness and flushing from rosacea
- Broken blood vessels on the face
What to expect
How to prepare
Avoid tanning, self-tanner and direct sun for a few weeks before treatment. IPL is not safe on tanned skin.
During the treatment
You wear eye protection. A cool gel is applied and the handpiece delivers pulses of light. Most people feel a warm snap, like a rubber band.
After the treatment
The skin may be red for a few hours. Brown spots darken and flake off over about a week. Redness may look slightly worse for a few days before it fades. Wear sunscreen every day.
Results
Many people see a clear difference after one treatment. A series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart gives the best results.
Where it is offered
IPL Q&A
What is IPL?
Intense pulsed light, a treatment that uses light to fade brown spots and redness.
What is the difference between Lumecca and BBL?
Both are IPL devices. Lumecca is made by InMode and BBL by Sciton. They treat the same concerns, and your provider will recommend one.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a warm snap with each pulse. It is quick.
How many treatments will I need?
Some people see results after one treatment. Most do a series spaced a few weeks apart.
Is there downtime?
Little. Spots darken and flake off over about a week, and most people go back to their day right away.
Is IPL safe for darker skin?
IPL works best on lighter skin. For darker skin tones, other treatments are often safer. Your provider will check what is right for you.
Can IPL treat rosacea?
IPL can reduce redness and visible blood vessels from rosacea. It does not cure rosacea, so it is often part of a larger plan.
Who performs this treatment
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Tegan Ryan
Aesthetician · Boulder