Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a light based therapy that emits broad spectrum pulses of light instead of a single wavelength of light like a laser does. These pulses of light penetrate below the skin’s surface at different depths and treat either skin pigment (brown spots), blood vessels (redness), or both. The use of different wavelengths of light is why IPL can be used for a variety of skin concerns, including but not limited to hyperpigmentation, diffuse redness, photo rejuvenation, and sun damage.  In most patients, this treatment causes little to no pain or downtime.  Think of IPL as being used to treat many “color” concerns in the skin.

The eMatrix Sublative, on the other hand, is mainly used to address textural concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, pore size, scars, etc. This device uses radiofrequency to create tiny, controlled “micro-injuries” in the lower layer of the skin (the dermis) while bypassing the top layer of skin (epidermis). Creating these controlled thermal injuries in the dermis stimulates a wound healing response that leads to collagen remodeling.  This is the process that creates the desired textural changes in the skin.

Since a Sublative treatment causes minimal injury to the top layer of the skin, it also has very minimal downtime for most patients. The most common side effects after receiving Sublative treatments are diffuse redness, mild to moderate swelling, and the formation of pinpoint “micro-crusts” across the face or treatment area. The micro-crusts last for approximately a week and can easily be covered with mineral make-up starting the following day.

IPL and the eMatrix Sublative, when used together, complement each other wonderfully by addressing both color and textural concerns. Book your appointment today to take advantage of this month’s IPL & Sublative special! And don’t forget to always trust your skin with the experts here at the USF Health Cosmetic and Laser Center … Where beautiful skin happens.

Written by: Carli Pasquerella, MSN, ARNP-C