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Anti-Aging Benefits of IPL Treatments

newbeauty logoOriginal Article by Elise Minton. When it comes to rejuvenating the skin, nothing does the trick quite like what’s offered at dermatologists’ and plastic surgeons’ offices. These doctors are privy to all the new technologies, but despite what’s groundbreaking and trendy, there’s something to be said about the tried-and-true treatments that have staying power, such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). [Source: NewBeauty.com]

IPL is a light-based treatment (even though it’s often grouped into the laser category) that is used to erase discoloration—think freckles, sun damage and brown spots—as well as rosacea, acne, broken capillaries and unwanted hair. “Current IPL systems are very versatile, allowing us to cover a lot of the skin’s surface while treating a variety of skin conditions,” says Miami dermatologist Adriane Pompa, MD.

It’s often the weapon of choice when dealing with pigmentation issues because it targets melanin in the skin. “Melanin increases from chronic sun exposure, as do the freckles that result from it,” says Dr. Pompa. “With just a few treatments (three to five) of IPL, dark spots can improve dramatically. The treatment is able to cover a large area and there is little downtime associated with it.” Each session, according to Dr. Pompa, feels like a hot bright light on the surface of the skin, similar to a bright flash being fired. IPL is also said to feel like a rubber band snap, too. A few days post treatment, the treated areas become darker (like a coffee grind) before they naturally fall off and fade. “After about two to three treatments, the results will be noticeable, but many patients notice a difference after the first treatment.”

Because IPL relies on the power of a broadband light source plus filters, Dr. Pompa says that different molecules in the skin can be focused on to selectively treat a specific target with minimal impact on other skin structures. “That’s why it works best on benign pigmented skin lesions.”

In addition to all the benefits that IPL offers—did we mention it also stimulates collagen production—it can be used to rejuvenate the skin from a textural standpoint, too. “We’ve seen that IPL patients’ skin looks younger and tighter after treatment,” says Dr. Pompa. In the future, Dr. Pompa says IPL may be used to treat stretch marks, scars and atopic dermatitis, and even nail and plaque psoriasis.

Male patient receiving an Emsculpt NEO treatment to the abdominal area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can EMSCULPT NEO do for me?

EMSCULPT NEO is an amazing noninvasive body sculpting treatment. It’s perfect for patients who are looking to get summer body ready! With this state-of-the-art, two-in-one technology, you build muscle and burn fat at the same time! This treatment provides a 30% reduction in subcutaneous fat and 25% growth in muscle on the treated area after a recommended number of treatments.

How does EMSCULPT NEO work?

While you lie down and relax, EMSCULPT NEO sends high-intensity energies deep below your skin, making your muscles contract in a big way that is like doing thousands of crunches or squats in a few minutes. While your muscles are contracting, the energy from the applicator simultaneously sends warmth to your fat cells, heating them up to the point of destruction. So you build real muscle from the contractions while destroying fat cells that are later naturally eliminated by your body.

How many EMCULPT NEO treatments will I need?

The recommended treatment plan is 4-6 treatments, one week apart. Depending on the patient, you may see improvement in your muscle tone, core strength and posture within a few weeks. And you’ll see fat reduction continue for about 12 weeks after your last treatment.

Are there any patients for whom you do not recommend EMSCULPT NEO?

EMSCULPT NEO is great because it has been shown to be safe and approved for all body and skin types. Contraindications include hernia, recent surgery, and pregnancy, so if a patient has any of these conditions, they should wait until they don’t to get EMSCULPT NEO.

What is the difference between CoolSculpting and EMSCULPT NEO?

CoolSculpting is a well-known treatment that is excellent for reducing unwanted fat in targeted areas. EMSCULPT NEO also reduces fat, but it has the benefit of building muscle, which is what its predecessor EMSCULPT was made to do.

Which treatment you choose depends on what your body needs and your personal goals. If you have great muscle tone and only need to get rid of some extra fat in a specific area like your abdomen or below your chin, CoolSculpting is an excellent option. But if you have loss of muscle tone and need more of a lift or tightening to a certain area like your abs or butt, EMSCULPT NEO is your two-in-one solution.

What is your favorite thing about EMSCULPT NEO?

Not only is this treatment super convenient with one treatment lasting only 30 minutes, but there is also no downtime! Patients can go about their day as they normally would immediately after their visit.

Greenwich Med Spa