Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment in Sydney

About the treatment

IPL is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that uses multiple wavelengths of light to target the skin’s surface. It may help improve the appearance of common concerns related to pigmentation and uneven tone, particularly in areas often exposed to the sun.

Common treatment areas include the face, neck, décolleté, arms, and hands. IPL may help improve the visible appearance of:

  • large pigmented spots

  • freckles

  • uneven or mottled skin tone

  • small visible blood vessels on the surface of the skin

  • general surface redness

  • overall tone and texture

Important Information

  • IPL is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the skin.

  • All cosmetic procedures carry risks, including redness, swelling, or changes in pigmentation.

  • Results and recovery experiences vary between individuals, and no outcome can be guaranteed.

  • A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is essential to determine suitability and discuss alternatives.

IPL and how it compares to other treatments

How Does IPL Compare to Other Laser Treatments?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, while lasers use a single, specific wavelength. With appropriate settings, IPL can be directed toward visible skin concerns at a more superficial level. Compared to some laser treatments, IPL procedures generally involve shorter recovery periods, although this depends on the individual and treatment settings.

Common Areas for IPL

IPL may be used on different areas of the body to improve the appearance of:

  • Face: uneven skin tone, pigmentation irregularities, and surface redness

  • Neck: visible signs of sun exposure or pigment changes that contribute to uneven tone

  • Hands: pigmentation such as age spots and general skin discolouration

What to Expect

During treatment, brief sensations of heat or tingling are common. Temporary side effects may include redness, swelling, or mild sensitivity, which typically settle within a few days. Less common risks, such as pigment changes, will be explained during your consultation.

Important Information

  • IPL is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the skin.

  • All procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals.

  • IPL is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions.

  • A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is required to determine suitability and discuss alternatives.

What to Expect from IPL?

At Shape Clinic, IPL treatments are tailored to the individual. Some people may require more than one session, and a course of treatments is sometimes recommended, depending on your skin type and goals. Your practitioner will advise on whether ongoing maintenance treatments may be suitable.

A topical numbing cream may be applied before treatment to support comfort. After your session, it is common for brown spots or pigmented areas to temporarily darken before naturally shedding within about a week. Mild redness can usually be covered with mineral makeup after 24 hours.

Procedure Overview

  • Procedure time: Usually 30–45 minutes

  • Downtime: Many people can resume normal activities shortly after treatment, though temporary redness or sensitivity may occur

  • Duration of changes: Some people notice improvements that last several months, but outcomes vary between individuals*

*Individual results and recovery times differ and cannot be guaranteed.

Important Information and Safety

  • IPL is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the skin.

  • Potential side effects include redness, swelling, pigment changes, and increased skin sensitivity.

  • Less common risks will be explained during consultation.

  • All procedures at Shape Clinic are performed by qualified health practitioners in accordance with safety guidelines.

  • A detailed consultation is required to confirm suitability and to discuss alternative treatment options.

 

Face contour sketch

For further information about surgical and non-surgical medical aesthetic procedures, please contact the clinic to arrange a consultation with a registered health practitioner.

Email us at concierge@shapeclinic.com.au or contact us on (02) 8356 2888 to book your consultation. During this consultation, a thorough clinical assessment will be conducted to determine whether any treatment is appropriate based on individual health and clinical factors. Please note that individual results may vary, and no specific outcomes can be guaranteed. All treatments carry risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Are There Any Side Effects?

IPL procedures can involve temporary effects such as redness, mild swelling, or increased sensitivity in the treated area. These typically resolve within a few hours to several days, though experiences vary. Less common risks, including pigment changes, will be discussed during your consultation.

Does IPL Hurt?

The level of discomfort varies from person to person. Some people describe brief sensations of heat or tingling during the procedure. To support comfort, a topical numbing cream may be applied before treatment, and cooling methods can be used during and after.

How Long Should I Wait Between IPL Sessions?

The interval between IPL treatments depends on your skin type, the area being treated, and your practitioner’s recommendations. Sessions are often scheduled several weeks apart to allow the skin to recover.

Important Information

  • All cosmetic procedures carry potential risks and side effects.

  • Outcomes differ between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.

  • A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is required to confirm suitability and develop a treatment plan.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment in Sydney Enquiry

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