IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

Reveal Brighter, More Even Skin with IPL in Norfolk, VA

IPL is a non-invasive light-based treatment designed to improve the appearance of sun damage, redness, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation for a clearer, more radiant complexion. Using advanced intense pulsed light technology, IPL targets unwanted pigment and vascular concerns while stimulating collagen production to promote smoother, healthier-looking skin.

Treatments are quick and comfortable with minimal downtime. Over time, the treated pigment gradually fades, revealing a more even skin tone and improved texture as your skin rejuvenates.

At Medical Aesthetics of Virginia, our experienced providers create personalized IPL treatments tailored to your skin concerns and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your needs and develop a customized approach to help you achieve brighter, more youthful-looking skin.

Schedule A Consultation

Your IPL Treatment Plan

  • Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products for at least 2 weeks before your IPL treatment.
  • Discontinue retinoids, exfoliating acids, and other irritating skincare products several days before treatment as directed by your provider.
  • Avoid waxing, chemical peels, laser treatments, or other aggressive skin treatments for 1–2 weeks before your appointment.
  • Avoid medications and supplements that may increase bruising or sensitivity, such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain herbal supplements, unless approved by your physician.
  • Arrive with clean skin free of makeup, lotions, or skincare products on the treatment area.
  • Your provider will evaluate your skin concerns and create a personalized IPL treatment plan based on your goals.
  • The treatment area will be cleansed, and protective eyewear will be provided for your comfort and safety.
  • A cooling gel may be applied before the IPL device is used to enhance comfort during treatment.
  • The IPL handpiece delivers gentle pulses of light to target pigmentation, redness, and other skin concerns.
  • Treatment typically takes 20–45 minutes, and most patients describe the sensation as a mild snapping or warming feeling.
  • Mild redness, warmth, swelling, or sensitivity may occur after IPL treatment and typically improves within a few hours to several days.
  • Darkened spots or pigmentation may temporarily appear more noticeable before naturally flaking or fading.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning, and excessive heat for at least 1 week, and apply SPF daily.
  • Avoid retinoids, exfoliants, harsh skincare products, and other facial treatments until your skin has fully healed.
  • Follow your provider’s skincare recommendations and contact our office if you experience unusual or prolonged irritation.

IPL FAQs

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a non-invasive light-based treatment that improves the appearance of sun damage, redness, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. It helps restore a brighter, more even complexion while supporting healthier-looking skin.

IPL uses controlled pulses of light energy to target pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. The light energy helps break down unwanted pigmentation and stimulates collagen production, improving overall skin tone, texture, and radiance.

personalized IPL treatment plan. Protective eyewear is provided, and the IPL handpiece delivers gentle pulses of light to the treatment area. Sessions typically take 20–45 minutes depending on the areas being treated.

Some improvements may be noticeable shortly after treatment, with continued results developing over the following weeks as pigmentation fades and the skin renews. A series of treatments may be recommended for optimal results.

IPL requires minimal downtime. Mild redness, warmth, swelling, or sensitivity may occur after treatment and typically improves within a few hours to several days. Most patients return to their normal activities shortly after their appointment.