Question:
How is IPL different from laser resurfacing?
Answer:
From a physics standpoint IPL is intense pulsed light and not a laser. Intense pulsed light is a broad wavelength of light that is filtered to a more narrow range. Laser resurfacing is performed with a true laser that is a single wavelength. Clinically IPL does not cause the skin to slough at appropriate treatment levels, but causes some deeper cell heating and rupture to release pigment and shrink blood vessels. The wavelength of laser used for skin resurfacing targets the water in the cell and causes the cells to rupture and die. This allows for collagen deposition and new more youthful skin to heal in. Laser resurfacing has a greater benefit, but also more recovery time.
Posted by Dr. Buckingham
