IPL Photofacial to Get Rid of Scars: Does It Work?

Scar Remover

Scars — whether from acne, injuries, or past surgeries — can linger long after the skin has healed, often affecting your confidence. One increasingly popular treatment for improving the appearance of scars is the IPL photofacial, a gentle, non-invasive light therapy that helps rejuvenate the skin’s surface. But how effective is it for scars, and what should you expect? Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an IPL Photofacial?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength, IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target multiple skin concerns at once. During an IPL photofacial, light energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed by unwanted pigment and damaged blood vessels. This process stimulates collagen production and accelerates skin cell turnover, revealing fresher, clearer skin over time.

How Does IPL Help with Scars?

IPL photofacials can be particularly effective for improving certain types of scars, especially those that are:

• Red or discolored: IPL helps break down excess pigmentation and visible blood vessels, reducing redness and uneven tone.

• Flat scars: While IPL won’t significantly change the texture of deep or raised scars, it can help them blend better with surrounding skin by evening out discoloration.

• Acne scars: For post-acne redness (known as post-inflammatory erythema), IPL is a popular choice to fade the pink or red marks that linger after breakouts have healed.

Benefits of IPL for Scar Treatment

• Non-invasive: No needles or surgical incisions.
• Minimal downtime: Mild redness or swelling usually resolves within a day or two.
• Gradual, natural results: Improvements develop gradually over a series of treatments.
• Boosts collagen: Increased collagen production helps skin look smoother and more youthful overall.

What Kinds of Scars Does IPL NOT Treat Well?

While IPL works well for discoloration, it is not the best option for:

• Deep acne pitting (ice pick scars)

• Raised (hypertrophic or keloid) scars

• Deep surgical scars

For texture-related scars, treatments like microneedling, fractional laser resurfacing, or chemical peels may be better options. Many providers combine IPL with other therapies to target both color and texture for more comprehensive results.

What to Expect During an IPL Photofacial

An IPL session typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on the treatment area. Here’s how it works:

1. Your skin will be cleansed, and a cooling gel is applied.

2. You’ll wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the light flashes.

3. Your provider will gently pass the IPL handpiece over the scarred area. You may feel a mild snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band flick.

4. After treatment, the area may look slightly red or feel warm, like a mild sunburn, but this usually fades quickly.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most patients see the best results with a series of 3–5 treatments, spaced about 3–4 weeks apart. Your provider will tailor a plan based on the type and severity of your scars.

Is IPL Photofacial Safe for Everyone?

IPL works best for lighter skin tones. People with darker skin may be at higher risk for unwanted pigmentation changes and should consult an experienced provider to discuss safer alternatives.

An IPL photofacial can be an excellent option to reduce redness and discoloration from scars, giving your skin a more even tone and healthier appearance.

For the best outcome, choose a licensed provider experienced in treating your specific skin type and scar concerns.

If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about scars, talk to a qualified skincare professional to find out if IPL is right for you!

For More Information on the Treatments and Procedures offered, contact award-winning Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Thomas Fiala at Fiala Aesthetics in Greater Orlando to Schedule Your Consultation:

Voted the #1 Best Plastic Surgeon in Orlando, Florida by the readers of Orlando Magazine.

Serving patients in and around Greater Central Florida: Orlando, Altamonte, Lake Mary, Maitland, Winter Park, Clermont, Casselberry, Lake Mary, Longwood, Celebration, Heathrow, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Sanford, Deltona, Deland, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Ocala, The Villages and more.