IPL Laser Treatments
PRICIng
** Please note that a $40 non-refundable deposit sent via EMT (E-money Transfer) will be required from first time clients booking an appointment over 1 hour in length. **
IPL Laser Treatments
There is a $25 Consultation Fee
That Will Be Discounted if Treatment is Booked.
What is IPL Laser
IPL or intense pulse light lasers are similar to true lasers but differ slightly. True lasers such as the Alexandrite, Diode and Nd: YAG emit a single beam of continuous laser energy, which penetrates to a specific depth beneath the outer layers of skin. IPL lasers use pulsed light technology involving pulses of laser light being emitted, which reach several different depths simultaneously. Patients find that they can successfully achieve permanent hair reduction with IPL lasers.
Risks, Side Effects and Possible Complications of Laser Treatment
Although Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is considered safe, there are some potential side effects and risks involved. Understanding the dangers of laser treatment can help clients make informed decisions about their care.
- Redness
- Edema (swelling)
- Itching
- Pain, tingling or feeling of numbness
- Crusting or scab formation
- Blistering
- Bruising
- Purpura (purple colouring of the skin) on tanned areas
- Temporary pigment change (hypo-pigmentation or hyper-pigmentation)
These side effects occur infrequently and symptoms typically go away within a few hours of treatment.
Long-term potential side effects of IPL include:
There are relatively few long-term risks associated with IPL treatments. However, in rare circumstances, or if the procedure is performed incorrectly, patients face the dangers of burns, scarring, and change in skin colour.
One of the most common dangers associated with improperly performed laser hair removal procedures are burns, which may occur if the skin, rather than the hair follicle, absorbs the laser energy. It is extremely important to determine if client is an appropriate candidate for IPL before undergoing treatment in order to minimize the risks of burns as well as other possible side effects.
The majority of burn cases are a result of laser hair removal performed by someone who is not qualified or experienced in the procedures. Receiving treatment from an inexperienced or unqualified technician can dramatically increase the risks associated with IPL. There currently are no existing standards for the licensing of qualified laser technicians.
Possible Areas of Concern
Eyebrows
This area is considered a high risk and unsafe due to proximity to the eyes.
Mucous Membrane Areas (nostrils, Nasal, Opening, Labia)
These areas are considered high risk because of difference in pigmentation, skin thinness and presence of moisture.
Hypersensitive Skin
Use caution in patients with hypersensitive skin. Do a patch test prior to laser treatment to determine level of sensitivity. Do not work with aggressive levels of fluence as this may increase the risk of adverse reactions. Remember that the skin sensitivity of the face and body does not vary with each individual.
Pregnancy
Females must abstain from any form of laser treatment for at least six months post-partum. Although there is no conclusive data indicating that laser treatments would harm the fetus, even the slightest chance is too great a risk. There exists a hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, which has effect on the hair growth cycle. Within six months of parturition, excess hair growth that took place during pregnancy often sheds and hormones have returned to their normal levels.
Skin Cancer
With any skin cancer or any form of skin infection or disease, a medical clearance must be obtained prior to any form of laser treatment. Any abnormal growth, regardless of colour, shape, or size must not undergo laser treatment without first receiving medical clearance.
Herpes Simplex (Types I and II)
Herpes is a contagious viral infection. Symptoms are typically localized to the mucous membrane tissue of the mouth (Type I) and genitals (Type II). Laser treatment should be avoided all together when there is active viral infection. For persons with recurrent infections, a physician should be consulted and medical clearance should be obtained prior to laser treatment.
Tattoos and Permanent Makeup
Laser treatment for hair removal and skin rejuvenation should be avoided on tattooed areas of the body. The pigmentation density is much too high and the energy from the laser would be absorbed by the skin, which could lead to blister formation and destruction of the tattoo. A patient who has had a tattoo removed must wait at least six months before undergoing laser treatment in order to allow the skin time to heal. Permanent makeup is considered a tattooing.
Photosensitizing Medications
Certain medications, topical solutions, and even some foods can cause the skin to burn or break out in a rash when exposed to ultraviolet light. The consequences can range from itchiness and hyperpigmentation to an uncomfortable rash and burns. It is critical that a chart listing photosensitizing medications is displayed in a conspicuous location. If a client is taking a medication that is not listed, he or she should consult with a physician or pharmacist prior to exposure to ultra violet light. See next section on photosensitizing medications.
Surgery
For clients who have recently undergone any surgical procedure, a wait period of six months post-operative is required prior to having any laser treatments to surgical site.
Tanned Skin (Or any UV ray exposure)
People with tanned skin have been generally discouraged from traditional laser hair removal treatments because tanning changes their natural skin pigmentation. During a laser hair removal procedure, light energy is directed to the skin where the unwanted hair is located. The skin absorbs some of the laser energy before it reaches the hair follicles. How much energy is absorbed will be determined by the skin colour. Tanned skin will usually absorb excess amounts of light energy and can cause burning or discoloration after treatment. Therefore, to treat a tanned patient, the laser energy must be turned down to prevent burning. This, in turn, decreases the effectiveness of the light energy to kill unwanted hair follicles.
Comedones or Blackheads
If the follicles are engorged with oxidized sebum (blackheads) in the area for hair removal, the client should receive and extraction treatment (for example, a deep cleansing facial with extractions) to reduce and normalize skin tissue. The dark colour of the oxidized sebum will also absorb the laser waves, which may lead to some skin irritation.
Teeth (Capped or Veneers, Metal Braces and Bridges)
If the front teeth, whether upper or lower have been capped or veneered, or if the patient has metal braces and bridges, the client may experience more discomfort around the mouth area from the laser rays, because the metal will absorb the heat readily. Cool frequently, or insert special teeth shields designed for laser use around the mouth.
White, Grey, Blonde and Red Hair
These particular types of hair lack pigment or they do not have enough pigment granules and cannot absorb enough energy from the laser, even with high fluence. The hairs and their follicles are not destroyed. An alternate method of permanent hair removal must be advised, such as electrolysis.
Pre-Treatment Client Compliance for IPL Treatments:
HAIR REMOVAL
Avoid sun exposure or use of tanning beds 4-8 weeks prior, depending upon your skin type
Report all medication taken since your last appointment. Discontinue Accutane 6 months prior to treatment
Report any changes in your medical history since your last appointment
Discontinue use of prescription strength Retinoic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic/Salicylic Peels, microdermabrasion or any other skin irritants 2 weeks prior to treatment
Book appointment at least 2 weeks post injectable products, such as Botox and Juviderm (treatment area)
Discontinue sunscreen 12 hours before treatment. Avoid chlorinated pools/hot tubs 12 hours prior to treatment
Avoid depilating for at least 4 weeks prior to the first session. Do not depilate with waxing, sugaring, plucking, threading or hair removal creams before or after laser hair removal.
SHAVING IS PERMITTED
Shave area day before treatment.
SKIN REJUVENATION (PHOTO FACIALS) ACNE TREATMENTS, VASCULAR AND PIGMENTED LESIONS
Avoid sun exposure or use of tanning beds 4-8 weeks prior, depending upon your skin type
Report all medication taken since your last appointment. Discontinue Accutane 6 months prior to treatment
Report any changes in your medical history since your last appointment
Discontinue use of prescription strength Retinoic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic/Salicylic Peels, microdermabrasion or any other skin irritants 2 weeks prior to treatment.
Book appointment at least 2 weeks post injectable products, such as Botox and Juviderm (treatment area)
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a technology used by cosmetic and medical practitioners to perform various skin treatments for aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, including hair removal, photorejuvenation (e.g. the treatment of skin pigmentation, sun damage, and thread veins) as well as to alleviate dermatologic diseases such as acne.
IPL is increasingly used in ophthalmology as well, to treat evaporative dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction.
The technology uses a high-powered, hand-held, computer-controlled flashgun to deliver an intense, visible, broad-spectrum pulse of light, generally in the visible spectral range of 400 to 1200 nm. Various cutoff filters are commonly used to selectively filter out lower wavelengths, especially potentially damaging ultra violet light. The resulting light has a spectral range that targets specific structures and chromophores (e.g. melanin in hair, or oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels) that are heated to destruction and reabsorbed by the body.
IPL shares some similarities with laser treatments, in that they both use light to heat and destroy their targets. But unlike lasers that use a single wavelength (color) of light which typically matches only one chromophore, and hence only one condition, IPL uses a broad spectrum that when used with filters, allows it to be used against several conditions. This can be achieved when the IPL technician selects the appropriate filter that matches a specific chromophore. Discontinue sunscreen 12 hours before treatment. Avoid chlorinated pools/hot tubs 12 hours prior to treatment.
Post Treatment Care
POST CLIENT COMPLIANCE FOR IPL TREATMENTS:
HAIR REMOVAL
- Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds for 2 weeks post treatment
- If the skin feels too warm/hot after the treatment, apply cold compresses (not direct ice)
- If there are any blisters/burns, apply antibiotic ointment or Aloe Vera
- Don’t apply make-up over blisters and scabs
- Keep the area moisturized to avoid hyper/hypopigmentation, infection or scaring
- Avoid over heating the body, such as strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, hot baths/showers 48 hours after the treatment
- Wear sunscreen SPF30+ in the treated area. Reapply often.
SKIN REJUVENATION (PHOTO FACIALS), ACNE TREATMENTS, VASCULAR AND PIGMENTED LESIONS
- Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds for 2 weeks post treatment
- If the skin feels too warm/hot after the treatment, apply cold compresses (not direct ice)
- If there are any blisters/burns, apply antibiotic ointment or Aloe Vera
- Don’t apply make-up over blisters and scabs
- Keep the area moisturized to avoid hyper/hypopigmentation, infection or scaring
- Avoid over heating the body, such as strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, hot baths/showers 48 hours after the treatment
- Wear sunscreen SPF30+ in the treated area. Reapply often.
Disqualification
If you present with any of these conditions, the only way we can proceed with the treatment is if you receive written confirmation from your General Practitioner or GP saying it is safe for you.
- Cancer
- Immune Disorder
- AIDS/HIV
- High/Low Blood Pressure
- Pregnancy
- Spinal Injury
- Keloid Scarring
- Menopause
- Hysterectomy
- Claustrophobia
- No one 17 and younger
- Pacemaker/Defibrillator
- Headaches
- Diabetes
- Skin Disease/Disorder
- Circulation Disorder
- Heart Disease
- Hepatitis A/B/C
- Thyroid Disorder
- Metal Implants/Pins
- Depression/Anxiety
- Bruise Easily
- Lupus
- Fibromyalgia
- Hormone Imbalance
- Rosacea
- Cold Sores
- Blood Clot Disorder
- Eczema
- Varicose Veins/Phlebitis
- Blush/Redden Easily
- Alcohol or Drug Abuse
- Allergies
- Psoriasis
- Recent Dermal Injections/Fillers
- Epilepsy/Seizure
- Any Active Infection
Contraindications
- pregnancy,
- breastfeeding,
- suntan (1 month),
- sun-sensitizing drugs (retinoids, tetracyclines),
- herbs (St John’s wort, calendula, stop using 2-3 weeks before the treatment),
- alcohol consumption (24 hours before the treatment),
- unstable diabetes,
- vitiligo,
- psoriasis (active phase),
- epilepsy,
- blood coagulation disorders, use of medicines reducing blood coagulability,
- skin prone to formation of keloids,
- Pacemaker or any metal implants
- Eyebrows: This area is considered a high risk and unsafe due to proximity to the eyes. Also, we could never get an eyebrow shape with the laser. Anything outside the orbital bone is considered safe for IPL. The glabella (middle of brows) is commonly done but not the brow itself.
- Mucous Membrane Areas (nostrils, Nasal, Opening, Labia): These areas are considered high risk because of difference in pigmentation, skin thinness and presence of moisture. We need direct contact with IPL and due to the broad spectrum of light we cannot tell in a mucus membrane where the beam is going to scatter too. Therefore going in any mucus membrane is unsafe.
- Hypersensitive Skin: Use caution in patients with hypersensitive skin. Do a patch test prior to laser treatment to determine level of sensitivity. Do not work with aggressive levels of fluency as this may increase the risk of adverse reactions. Remember that the skin sensitivity of the face and body does not vary with each individual.
- Pregnancy: Females must abstain from any form of laser treatment for at least six months postpartum. Although there is no conclusive data indicating that laser treatments would harm the fetus, even the slightest chance is too great a risk. There exists a hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, which has an effect on the hair growth cycle. Within six months of parturition, excess hair growth that took place during pregnancy often sheds and hormones have returned to their normal levels.
- Skin Cancer. With any skin cancer or any form of skin infection or disease, a medical clearance must be obtained prior to any form of laser treatment. Skin cancer specifically should be in remission for 5 yrs and consulted with a doctor prior to laser services. Any abnormal growth, regardless of colour, shape, or size must not undergo laser treatment without first receiving medical clearance.
- Herpes Simplex (Types I and II): Herpes is a contagious viral infection. Symptoms are typically localized to the mucous membrane tissue of the mouth (Type I) and genitals (Type II). Laser treatment should be avoided all together when there is active viral infection. For persons with recurrent infections, a physician should be consulted and medical clearance should be obtained prior to laser treatment. We can cause a flare up in someone who has herpes with IPL if a breakout is coming on. If the client has an outbreak we will spread it with the energy of the laser on their skin.
- Tattoos and Permanent Makeup: Laser treatment for hair removal and skin rejuvenation should be avoided on tattooed areas of the body. The pigmentation density is much too high and the energy from the laser would be absorbed by the skin, which could lead to blister formation and destruction of the tattoo. A patient who has had a tattoo removed must wait at least six months before undergoing laser treatment in order to allow the skin time to heal. Permanent makeup is considered a tattoo.
- Photosensitizing Medications: Certain medications, topical solutions, and even some foods can cause the skin to burn or break out in a rash when exposed to ultraviolet light. The consequences can range from itchiness and hyperpigmentation to an uncomfortable rash and burns. It is critical that a chart listing photosensitizing medications is displayed in a conspicuous location. If a client is taking a medication that is not listed, he or she should consult with a physician or pharmacist prior to exposure to ultraviolet light.
- Surgery: For clients who have recently undergone any surgical procedure, a wait period of six months post-operative is required prior to having any laser treatments to the surgical site.
- Tanned Skin (Or any UV ray exposure): People with tanned skin have been generally discouraged from traditional laser hair removal treatments because tanning changes their natural skin pigmentation. During a laser hair removal procedure, light energy is directed to the skin where the unwanted hair is located. The skin absorbs some of the laser energy before it reaches the hair follicles. How much energy is absorbed will be determined by the skin colour. Tanned skin will usually absorb excess amounts of light energy and can cause burning or discoloration after treatment. Therefore, to treat a tanned patient, the laser energy must be turned down to prevent burning. This, in turn, decreases the effectiveness of the light energy to kill unwanted hair follicles.
- Comedones or Blackheads. If the follicles are engorged with oxidized sebum (blackheads) in the area for hair removal, the client should receive an extraction treatment (for example, a deep cleansing facial with extractions) to reduce and normalize skin tissue. The dark colour of the oxidized sebum will also absorb the laser waves, which may lead to some skin irritation.
- Teeth (Capped or Veneers, Metal Braces and Bridges). If the front teeth, whether upper or lower have been capped or veneered, or if the patient has metal braces and bridges, the client may experience more discomfort around the mouth area from the laser rays, because the metal will absorb the heat readily. Cool frequently, or insert special teeth shields designed for laser use around the mouth.
- White, Grey, Blonde and Red Hair. These particular types of hair lack pigment or they do not have enough pigment granules and cannot absorb enough energy from the laser, even with high fluence. The hairs and their follicles are not destroyed. An alternate method of permanent hair removal must be advised, such as electrolysis.
- Dermal Melasma: The Dermalase IPL cannot treat dermal melasma as treatment can spread the condition and make it much worse. No matter if we are treating SR or HR in the area. It is directly stimulated by heat and light.
IPL Indications
Our Dermalase IPL handle technology uses a high-powered, light pulse of 560-1200 nm to target specific chromophores – found in hair, blood vessels and skin
IPL benefits include the stimulation of collagen production and as well is more successful in treating minimally pigmented hair.
- Hair removal
- Folliculitis (ingrown hairs)
- Collagen Rebuilding
- Fine Line Reduction
- Dull Skin Rejuvenation
- Pigmentation Uniformity
- Freckle Removal
- Age Spot Reduction
- Rosacea
- Broken Capillaries
- Scar Reduction
- Acne Reduction
Post Treatment Care
POST CLIENT COMPLIANCE FOR IPL TREATMENTS:
HAIR REMOVAL
- Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds for 2 weeks post treatment
- If the skin feels too warm/hot after the treatment, apply cold compresses (not direct ice)
- If there are any blisters/burns, apply antibiotic ointment or Aloe Vera
- Don’t apply make-up over blisters and scabs
- Keep the area moisturized to avoid hyper/hypopigmentation, infection or scaring
- Avoid over heating the body, such as strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, hot baths/showers 48 hours after the treatment
- Wear sunscreen SPF30+ in the treated area. Reapply often.
SKIN REJUVENATION (PHOTO FACIALS), ACNE TREATMENTS, VASCULAR AND PIGMENTED LESIONS
- Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds for 2 weeks post treatment
- If the skin feels too warm/hot after the treatment, apply cold compresses (not direct ice)
- If there are any blisters/burns, apply antibiotic ointment or Aloe Vera
- Don’t apply make-up over blisters and scabs
- Keep the area moisturized to avoid hyper/hypopigmentation, infection or scaring
- Avoid over heating the body, such as strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, hot baths/showers 48 hours after the treatment
- Wear sunscreen SPF30+ in the treated area. Reapply often.
Cancellation Policy
Because our clients mean so much to us, we always try to honour your time and schedule by being available and punctual with your appointments.
In return, we would be ever so grateful if you could do the same! With the help of our 48 hour reminder system, we ask that any changes be made to your appointments within 24 hours of the scheduled time.
Any changes after the 24 hour mark may result in a $25 rescheduling fee that will be attached onto your next scheduled appointment.
In the event that we can fill your time slot last minute, your rescheduling fee will be waived.
NO SHOWS will result in a 100% service charge and will need to be paid in full via e-transfer before booking another appointment.
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