1. What is Ellipse I²PL Skin Rejuvenation?

Skin rejuvenation treatment with the Ellipse ™ I²PL™ helps you keep a younger and fresher look.  The safe, visible light emitted from the Ellipse ™ I²PL™flash-lamp makes your face look younger by lightening age spots, and reducing diffuse redness and uneven pigmentation.  It is used to repair sun-damage found on the face, neck, chest and hands.

2. What is Intense Pulsed Light and how does it differ from a laser?

Intense pulsed light devices deliver short bursts of very intense light to treat specific skin conditions. The visible light produced by the Ellipse I²PL system is carefully controlled to produce the correct pulse length and right amount of energy to destroy the targets without damaging surrounding tissue.  Treatments with laser and with intense pulsed light both work in the same way, choosing wavelengths that are absorbed by the target.  A laser uses light with one specific wavelength and intense pulsed light uses a band of wavelengths.

3. How does the Ellipse™ I²PL™ work?

The Ellipse I²PL treatment works by directing well-controlled pulses of light into the upper skin layer.  The light is absorbed by two targets – melanin in the pigmented areas and hemoglobin in the red blood cells. These pigments convert the light energy into heat.  This heat is used to selectively destroy the parts of the cells in which the melanin is stored, and to damage the walls of the vessels supplying blood to the areas of visible vascular damage.  The surrounding skin and structures are not affected.

4. Does it hurt?

Tolerance of pain varies greatly from person to person.  No anesthetics are required; however, a topical numbing cream may be applied prior to the procedure to minimize discomfort.  Many patients describe it as a warming sensation similar to the feeling one has after a day on the beach.

5. Do I need to take special precautions before and after treatment?

The light used is a completely safe, visible lilght.  Potentially harmful wavelengths are removed by the unique Ellipse ™ I²PL™ Dual Mode Filtering system.  Since tanning takes place by accumulation of pigment (melanin) in the skin, it is important to avoid tanning (sun, tanning bed or self-tanning cream) before and during the treatment period.  Otherwise, your tanned skin will absorb more light, which may lead to adverse effects.  Generally, no post-treatment care is necessary.  People with sensitive skin may benefit from applying an ice pack to the face immediately after treatment.  Sun protection following the treatment is also advised.

6. What can I expect after treatment?

You may notice that the skin looks a little “discolored” for a few days following treatment.  The pigmented areas will initially darken and then will slough off over the next 3-7 days.  This can usually be easily covered with make-up.  After that, you will find that you skin looks smoother and fresher.

The dermatologists at Contemporary & Cosmetic Dermatology, PC are available to go over these and any other questions you may have regarding Ellipse™ I²PL™ Skin Rejuvenation.