Experience a Proven Solution for Pigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone

At SKIN Clinics in Calgary, our Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment transforms your skin by erasing brown spots, redness, and uneven pigmentation from sun damage or aging. This rejuvenating therapy not only revives clarity and balance but also turns back the clock on sun-damaged areas for lasting skin health. A smooth, even complexion is key to a youthful glow. We’re thrilled to serve Calgary and nearby communities with advanced dermatologist-led care in a luxurious setting that feels like home.

Explore How IPL Targets and Reduces Pigmentation

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is an advanced treatment that addresses a wide range of pigmentation concerns, including photodamage, sun spots, freckles, acne-related marks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, redness, flushing, broken capillaries, and rosacea.

During treatment, precise light pulses pass through the skin’s surface and target pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). The light energy converts into gentle heat, which breaks down excess pigment without harming surrounding tissue. Over the healing process, the treated pigment gradually rises to the surface and naturally flakes away, revealing a clearer, more even-toned complexion.

This process not only improves visible pigmentation but also supports overall skin renewal, leaving the skin brighter, smoother, and healthier in appearance.

Preparing for Your IPL Appointment

What to Do Before You Arrive

Complete your Health History/Intake form prior to your visit. If you cannot, please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to complete it in person.
Have a light snack or meal 30–60 minutes before your appointment to keep comfortable.
Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup, in the treatment area.
Apply a medical-grade SPF 50 daily on the treatment area for 4–6 weeks before your session.
Inform your provider if you have a history of hyperpigmentation conditions, such as melasma.
If you have a history of cold sores, let your provider know so we can provide a prophylactic prescription (such as Valtrex).

What to Avoid Before Treatment

Sun exposure for 4–6 weeks leading up to your appointment.
Tanning of any kind, including spray tans and self-tanning products, for 4–6 weeks prior. (If a tan is present on treatment day, your session will need to be rescheduled for safety.)
Retinol or active exfoliants for 5–7 days prior.
Neuromodulator treatments for at least 2 weeks prior.
Dermal filler for at least 4 weeks prior.
Oral isotretinoin (Accutane) use within the last 6 months.
IPL treatments are not performed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caring for Your Skin After IPL

What to Expect During Downtime

Mild redness, swelling, dryness, or flaking may appear temporarily after treatment.
A sunburn-like sensation may last for up to an hour.
Treated sun and age spots may darken before naturally rising to the skin’s surface and flaking off. Please allow them to shed naturally—do not pick or scratch.
The degree of downtime may vary depending on the skin concern being treated.

What to Avoid After Treatment

Active skincare products (including retinol, AHA, BHA, or other exfoliants) for 3 days.
Hot water, friction, or strenuous exercise for 3 days.
Physical exfoliation for 1 week.
Direct sun exposure throughout your treatment plan, SPF 50 is essential at all times.

Follow-Up Recommendations

Contact our team immediately if you notice blistering or increased discomfort.
A series of 3 treatments, spaced 4 weeks apart, is recommended for best results.
Yearly maintenance sessions are suggested to keep your skin clear and radiant.

Key Details About Your IPL Journey

Treatment Aspect

What to Expect

Recommended Sessions

3–6 treatments for optimal results

Visible Results

Noticeable improvement within 2–4 weeks after each session

Longevity of Results

It can last several years with proper skin protection and maintenance

The Benefits of IPL Treatment

Noticeable improvement in age and sun spots for a more even complexion
Reduction of redness and flushing, restoring natural clarity
Stimulation of collagen production, enhancing firmness and elasticity
A non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime
Visible improvements often occur within the first week
Softer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin texture

Discover the Skin Concerns That IPL Treatment Can Improve

IPL treatment can effectively fade brown spots, freckles, and other pigmentation irregularities, improving clarity and balance in the skin. It is highly beneficial for reversing the visible signs of sun damage and photoaging while also reducing redness and inflammation in clients with rosacea. Conditions such as melasma, which are hormonally driven, can be improved through a tailored IPL treatment plan that restores a more consistent complexion. The treatment also calms flushing and uneven tone, revives radiance in dull or tired-looking skin, softens acne-related marks and post-inflammatory pigmentation, and minimizes the visibility of broken capillaries, leaving the skin smoother, brighter, and more even overall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does IPL treatment hurt?

+ Most clients describe the sensation as similar to a quick snap of an elastic band or a brief warm pinprick. To ensure comfort, we provide soothing options such as a SkinCeuticals Phytogel Masque and cooling with ice immediately after treatment.

How long does an IPL appointment usually take?

+ An average session takes about 30 minutes. With little to no downtime, IPL can easily fit into a lunch break or a busy day.

When will I start to see results from IPL?

+ Visible improvement is often noticed within the week following treatment. Pigmentation may temporarily darken before naturally flaking off, revealing a clearer, more even complexion. A series of sessions is usually needed for the best outcomes, and results continue to build over time.

Are the results of IPL treatment permanent?

+ Results can last for years if the skin is well protected with daily SPF. Maintenance sessions are recommended, especially for conditions such as rosacea, acne-related redness, flushing, or photo-damage, to preserve long-term benefits.

What are the possible side effects of IPL treatment?

+ Mild redness, swelling, and a temporary sunburn-like feeling may occur after treatment. Treated spots may darken or form a light crust before naturally shedding. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few hours to a few days.

How many IPL sessions will I need?

+ The number of sessions varies depending on your skin concern and goals. Most clients benefit from a series of 3 to 6 treatments, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve the best results.

Can IPL help with sun damage and uneven skin tone?

+ IPL works wonders on sun-induced pigmentation, effortlessly fading sunspots and freckles. It rejuvenates your skin, unveiling a smoother tone and vibrant complexion.

Is IPL safe for all skin types?

+ IPL works best for lighter to medium skin tones, while those with darker complexions or specific skin conditions might benefit from other treatments. In your consultation, our experts will evaluate your skin type and suggest the safest and most effective solution tailored just for you.

How should I care for my skin between IPL sessions?

+ To maintain and enhance your skin’s radiance, embrace a daily ritual of SPF 50, gentle cleansers, and hydrating products. Shield your skin by steering clear of the sun, tanning products, and harsh exfoliants to preserve your glow and aid in healing.

Is IPL considered a laser treatment for pigmentation?

+ While not a laser, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is often likened to one due to its transformative effects on pigmentation. This treatment harnesses broad-spectrum light to shatter excess pigment, allowing it to naturally fade as the skin heals. Perfect for tackling sun spots, freckles, melasma, and other pigmentation woes, IPL offers a powerful solution for clearer skin.