Skin pigmentation and discolouration issues are caused by a range of factors including sun damage and natural ageing. There are a variety of treatment options for treating sun spots, age spots and skin discolouration, but IPL treatments can be an option for reducing the appearance of sun spots, age spots and uneven skin tone. But what is IPL and how can this be used for skin pigmentation issues?
What is IPL treatment?
IPL treatment is the use of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to target specific skin cells and reduce the appearance of pigmentation over a course of sessions. IPL is a more gentle option than laser treatment, and can be used for a wide range of purposes, including removing unwanted hair, removing sun spots, age spots and pigmentation, and treating rosacea.
How can IPL treatment be used effectively for pigmentation?
As a natural part of the ageing process, age spots and unwanted pigmentation changes can become a common issue. Increased sun exposure can also play a key role in the development of these skin issues, as well as freckles. Pigmentation, age spots and freckles can vary considerably in size, shape and depth, and be raised or flat.
Using an IPL treatment can be a good solution for pigmentation issues as this involves using intense pulsed light, directed at areas of the face and pigmentation area. When the light is absorbed by the skin the energy is transformed into heat energy which can damage and remove particular target skin cells. This allows the age spots and skin pigmentation to be specifically targeted, reducing their appearance. Results vary, and pigmentation can return, particularly with further sun exposure.
After an IPL treatment for skin pigmentation, the pigmentation will be split up and broken into smaller pieces as a side effect of the heat. These tiny particles will then rise to the skin’s surface, and this means that the pigmentation will darken initially. After this, scabs, crusts and possible flaking will form. This will naturally fall away within 7-10 days.
What are the advantages of using IPL treatment for skin pigmentation?
Using an IPL treatment for skin pigmentation can bring a wide range of advantages and benefits. These include:
Targeting individual areas – unlike topical treatments IPL treatment targets specific skin cells within the skin, and doesn’t involve treating the whole skin surface. This means that the treatment can be fairly fast, and other than wearing sun cream and protecting from further sun damage, there is no downtime required.
Potential for a long-term reduction – after a course of sessions, often around 3 to 6, many people notice a reduction in the appearance of the pigmentation. Results vary, and it is not a permanent or complete removal. Good skincare and sun protection afterwards are important, as pigmentation can return.
A professional treatment – IPL is carried out after a consultation, so we can check whether it may be suitable for your skin. Results vary from person to person.
For more information or advice about how IPL treatment could help with your skin concerns, please get in touch. Here at the Skin and Wellbeing Clinic we are a Preston city centre aesthetic clinic, and we will talk through what may be suitable for you at a consultation.


The Skin and Wellbeing Clinic is proud to provide professional aesthetics treatments for clients in Preston, Blackpool, Leyland, Chorley, Kirkham, Blackburn and the North West of England. Our key treatments and services include Anti Wrinkle Injections, Dermal Fillers, Laser Hair Removal, Acne Treatments, Injectable Polynucleotides, and much more.