What Is a Photofacial/Fotofacial?

During an approximately 30-minute “Photofacial/Fotofacial,” or Intense Pulsed Laser (IPL™), intense pulses of light penetrate deep into the skin. This causes collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis to constrict, which in turn reduces redness and age lines. Most benefits are seen gradually in the weeks after treatment.

Who is a good candidate for a Photofacial?

Patients who have redness caused by acne, rosacea, hyper-pigmentation and facial veins, as well as the fine lines and wrinkles caused by aging or sun damage, are good candidates. You may also be a good candidate if your skin has been discolored from smoking, alcohol use, or hormone changes. Some factors, such as dark or deeply tanned skin, may make patients poor candidates. A Sylvana professional will recommend the procedure(s) that best meet your needs.

Are there side effects?

There is very little discomfort and no downtime. Unlike many laser techniques, the procedure is non-ablative, meaning no skin is removed during treatment. Consequently the side effects are minimal.

Though recovery is rapid, sunscreen is absolutely vital to helping the results to last as long as possible. Your Sylvana professional can advise you on the best sunscreen products to use for UVA and UVB protection.