Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Laser Skin Treatment In Phoenix, AZ

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy (also known as a photofacial) is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses high-intensity pulses of broad-spectrum light to target specific structures within the skin. Providers commonly use it in dermatology and cosmetic procedures to treat various skin conditions and aesthetic concerns. Although commonly known as IPL laser treatment, this technology does not use a laser beam. IPL therapy is gentler on the skin and has less downtime compared to laser treatments.

Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength of light, IPL emits multiple wavelengths that penetrate the skin and chromophores absorb them—such as melanin in pigmentation or hair, and hemoglobin in blood vessels. The process converts light energy into heat. This heat destroys or damages the targeted tissue, resulting in improved skin tone.

Common skin conditions treated with IPL therapy include:

• Sun damage/Photoaging: Sun damage may present as sunspots, solar lentigines (1), uneven pigmentation, rough skin texture, and fine lines—often resulting from prolonged UV exposure. IPL therapy targets melanin, breaking down pigment clusters and stimulating collagen production to help even out skin tone and improve overall skin texture.
• Rosacea: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels. Research has shown that IPL therapy can be an effective treatment for rosacea (2). IPL targets hemoglobin in the blood vessels, reducing redness and visible capillaries without harming the surrounding skin.
• Spider veins/telangiectasia: Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear near the surface of the skin, commonly found on the nose, cheeks, or legs. IPL emits light energy that heats the blood within these vessels, causing them to collapse and be naturally reabsorbed by the body. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of IPL in reducing the appearance of spider veins, particularly on the face (3).
• Hyperpigmentation: IPL can be used to treat different types of hyper pigmentations particularly sun induced pigmentations such as sunspots, brown spots, age spots, freckles, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots, absorbs the light energy emitted by IPL, which heats and breaks it down. Over time, the pigmented lesions fade resulting in a more even skin tone.
• Hair removal: IPL can be safely used in hair removal (4). IPL emits broad-spectrum light that targets melanin in the hair. The light energy is absorbed by the hair shaft and converted into heat, which damages the hair follicle, slowing or stopping future hair growth. IPL hair removal works best on light skin people with dark hair and is not effective for very light, grey, red, or white hair due to low melanin content.
• Skin rejuvenation (Photo facial): During the skin rejuvenation process, IPL targets pigmentation, sun damage, redness, age spots, and fine lines by stimulating collagen production and enhancing cell turnover. Treatments are commonly performed on the face, neck, chest, or hands and involve minimal downtime. Studies have shown that IPL therapy can deliver long-lasting results when used for skin rejuvenation (5).

Proper preparation before an IPL session can help maximize results and minimize potential side effects. Once your appointment is scheduled, your dermatologist will provide personalized instructions. However, the following general guidelines can help you get ready for your IPL treatment:

• Avoid sun exposure 2–4 weeks before the treatment.
• Stop using certain skincare products (3–5 days before): Discontinue products containing retinoids (Retin-A), alpha/beta Hydroxy Acids (AHAs/BHAs), Benzoyl Peroxide, Vitamin C (if highly active).
• Avoid waxing, plucking, or chemical peels (2 weeks before) as these can irritate the skin and interfere with IPL effectiveness.
• Avoid bleaching the treatment area 1–2 weeks before IPL hair removal, as it reduces the pigment needed for effective targeting.
• Clean skin on treatment day and arrive with no makeup, lotion, perfume, or deodorant on the area to be treated.
• Inform your provider of any photosensitizing medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, acne meds), as they may increase sensitivity or risk.
• no dermal filler, botox or chemical peels 2 weeks before or after treatment

The IPL device will deliver pulses of light to the skin. It may feel like a quick snap or flick—similar to a rubber band against the skin. Some areas may be more sensitive, but most people find the discomfort mild and tolerable. A session typically lasts 20–45 minutes, depending on the area treated.

The staff at Saguaro Dermatology are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care, innovative practices, helpful resources, and state-of-the-art technology to prevent and treat a multitude of skin disorders for patients in the Phoenix, Mesa, and Ahwatukee area. Our physicians are experienced in IPL treatment and are ready to help you achieve the look you desire. Our IPL Laser is located in our Ahwatukee office.

IPL treatment is a safe, non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure designed to address a variety of skin concerns, including sun damage, rosacea, spider veins, and hyperpigmentation. To determine whether IPL is the right option for your specific skin condition, consult with an experienced dermatologist for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations.
The team at Saguaro Dermatology has successfully treated individuals with different skin conditions. Our board-certified dermatologists and our caring and experienced staff are always ready to help you at Saguaro Dermatology, conveniently located in three locations, Phoenix, Mesa, and Ahwatukee, AZ.