IPL Acne Treatment: Preparation, What to Expect & Required Sessions

Summary

AW3® IPL acne treatment is a non-invasive, light-based solution for mild to moderate acne. With proper preparation, minimal discomfort, and strong safety measures, it targets acne-causing bacteria and inflammation. Most clients see noticeable improvement after 3–6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart.

Does acne affect your appearance? It can be a matter of worry. However, you can fight against this problem with effective treatments. IPL acne treatment is one of the most popular options people often choose to treat their acne problems. This is an advanced treatment and has almost zero side effects on skin health.

Hello, I’m Christine Marshall, a qualified and insured AW3 IPL therapist. In this blog, I will discuss how to prepare for this treatment, what your expectations should be, and the treatment frequency for optimal results. Let’s dive in!

What is AW3® IPL Acne Treatment?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) acne treatment is a non-invasive, light-based therapy that helps improve acne-prone skin. Unlike traditional laser treatment, they use multiple wavelengths to target acne-related concerns like bacteria and inflamed oil glands. According to one of the NHS Health Research Authority’s research studies, IPL treatment can improve the appearance of mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

How to Prepare for AW3® IPL Acne Treatment

Do you know that good preparation can improve results and reduce side effects? Yes, this is true. Here are some tips that will help you prepare for your first IPL acne treatment:

• Keep Your Skin Makeup-Free: Not for a week, just on the day of your treatment. Wash your face with natural cleansers before leaving your home.
• Stop Taking Certain Skincare Products: If you are using skincare products like retinoids, exfoliants, and chemical treatments, take a break for some time. I recommend avoiding them for at least 1 week before the IPL.
• Stay Away from Tanning Products: If you are dealing with signs that tell you to opt for an acne treatment, please start maintaining distance from tanning products.
• Avoid Extensive Sun Exposure: When preparing for this treatment, try to avoid extensive sun exposure. It can worsen your skin health and acne problems.

What to Expect During This Treatment

If you are opting for AW3® IPL acne treatment for the first time, here’s what to expect:

• Duration: Generally, most sessions take around 20 to 30 minutes. The exact time actually depends on the affected area size.
• Sensation: You may feel mild snapping or tingling. Don’t worry, this is temporary, and most people often feel this sensation.
• Comfort: I will apply a cooling gel or cooling tip to reduce discomfort. This is an effective and mostly used solution.
• Safety: I always take all the safety measures to provide the best treatment experience every time. You will be given protective eyewear, so no worries about your eyes. I will handle all adjustments based on your skin type to ensure a safe and reliable experience.

How Many Sessions Will You Need?

This is one of the most asked questions online. Most people require a series of treatments, typically around 3 to 6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Your required sessions may vary depending on your current skin condition and the intensity of acne. However, 3 or 4 sessions are enough to start noticing a meaningful and lasting reduction in acne and redness.

In conclusion, IPL acne treatment is one of the best treatments to make your facial skin free from acne. All you need to do is focus on the preparation steps and communicate with your therapist to get the best possible results.