Limelight IPL
Cutera LimeLight IPL is a device that uses short bursts of high-intensity light to address brown and red skin discoloration. Also known as a “photofacial,” intense pulsed light treatments are effective at targeting brown spots, as well as small veins and red spots.
Dr. Sherber knows that not all skin types and tones respond in the same way to the various treatments, and therefore thoroughly evaluates each patient's skin to design a course of treatment that combines multiple treatment modalities to provide the best results possible. Best results are generally achieved with a series of treatments, and cost varies based on the extent of the areas treated. IPL can also be used for hair removal in certain skin tones.
Lasers use specific wavelengths to target melanin (removal of dark spots, hair removal), hemoglobin (treatment of redness and visible veins), or water (collagen stimulation for skin rejuvenation). Through this targeted approach, the new generation of lasers provide skin-perfecting results that aren’t achievable through skincare alone. Dr. Sherber’s extensive knowledge of the best wavelengths and amount of energy required to resolve skin issues allows patients to achieve optimal results while leaving the surrounding skin safe and unharmed.
01Consultation + Preparation
In preparation for the consultation it is important to let us know if you have a history of herpes simplex cold sores, so that we may prescribe an oral antiviral to take as an adjunct to treatment to prevent an outbreak. For your first treatment, discontinue any retinoids (retinol, Retin-A) for a week prior. Dr. Sherber will then advise you on this for future treatments based on your skin’s response. It is also critical that the skin not be suntanned or self-tanned prior to any laser, light, or energy treatment. For laser hair removal, all areas to be treated must be shaved prior to your appointment, with no waxing or tweezing in between sessions. If you have had prior laser hair removal, it is helpful for us to receive those records to review.
During the consultation, our team will take high resolution photographs for your record so that we can observe the results of your treatment with accuracy. We will then ask you about your medical history, including current medications and any prior procedures. Medications and conditions that can cause photosensitivity may be contraindications for this procedure, as can heat-sensitive pigmentary concerns such as melasma. Dr. Sherber will talk with you about your specific goals and customize a treatment plan for you that might include skincare, Botox, other injectables, laser treatments, and skincare products. Areas that we typically treat are the face, neck, hands, and chest.
In preparation for the consultation it is important to let us know if you have a history of herpes simplex cold sores, so that we may prescribe an oral antiviral to take as an adjunct to treatment to prevent an outbreak. For your first treatment, discontinue any retinoids (retinol, Retin-A) for a week prior. Dr. Sherber will then advise you on this for future treatments based on your skin’s response. It is also critical that the skin not be suntanned or self-tanned prior to any laser, light, or energy treatment. For laser hair removal, all areas to be treated must be shaved prior to your appointment, with no waxing or tweezing in between sessions. If you have had prior laser hair removal, it is helpful for us to receive those records to review.
During the consultation, our team will take high resolution photographs for your record so that we can observe the results of your treatment with accuracy. We will then ask you about your medical history, including current medications and any prior procedures. Medications and conditions that can cause photosensitivity may be contraindications for this procedure, as can heat-sensitive pigmentary concerns such as melasma. Dr. Sherber will talk with you about your specific goals and customize a treatment plan for you that might include skincare, Botox, other injectables, laser treatments, and skincare products. Areas that we typically treat are the face, neck, hands, and chest.
02Procedure
IPL treatments are comfortable and typically do not take a great deal of time to perform. A Limelight IPL treatment session does not require the use of a topical anesthesia, however this can be offered in some cases, depending on the area being treated.
Once the targeted region has been prepared, a handpiece is used to precisely and evenly deliver the energy to the area. The treatment feels like rubber band snaps, however we use a cooling gel to optimize comfort during treatment. We often only need to use one pulse on each spot. Once the treatment is complete, patients can often return to their daily schedule, depending on the intensity of the procedure.
sun damage
brightening
rejuvenating
no downtime
03recovery
Immediately post-treatment Dr. Sherber will apply a calming serum and broad spectrum sunscreen to soothe and protect the skin. Treated brown spots may darken and look “crispy” and have slight scabbing as they heal.
Your usual activity can be resumed immediately after treatment and makeup can be applied to the areas treated as you will not have peeling or other more noticeable after-effects.
04results
After an IPL treatment or series of treatment sessions, patients will notice immediate and/or gradual improvement in the skin imperfections that were treated. Brown spots should darken right after treatment and the skin will be a bit flushed which should only last a few days post-treatment. Within 7-10 days, dark spots will start to slough off with improvement in skin quality around 3 weeks.
Ideally, these treatments needed to be repeated several times over the course of several months to achieve optimal results.
recommended productsExpertly Edited + Best in Class
La Mer - The Concentrate
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum
Sturm The Good C Serum
