IPL can be performed on any skin-tone that skin is lighter than the area that is being treated

Everyone's skin responds differently to treatment, but it usually takes from 6-10 IPL treatments to see maximum results.

There is zero downtime with this treatment, there may be slight scabbing or darker pigment brought to the surface of the skin which usually lasts around 7 days.

The treatment rejuvenates the skin by removing pigmentation, diffuses redness and leaves the skin feeling smoother and more even in texture.

Age spots and hyper pigmentation contains menlanin and diffuse redness contains haemoglobin. The light is absorbed by the melanin in the pigmented area and the heat reaction effect, breaks down the melanin in the keratinocytes. A photo toxic reaction occurs in the melanin vesicles and the excess melanin turns darker before it comes away from the skin. The light is also absorbed by the superficial blood vessels in the skin. The heat reaction caused coagulates blood vessels, destroys protein in the wall of the vessel and stimulates collagen production. 

Skin rejuvenation is the treatment of sun damaged skins. The IPL laser treatment can be used for diffuse redness (high colour) and pigmented lesions such as hyper pigmentation, solar lentigines (sun spots) and freckles.

The best results are seen with clients of skin types 1-3 and skin type 4 can be treated with care. It is important that the client avoids sun exposure 30-60 days prior to treatment. Sun exposure can increase the risk of pains or burns from excessive light absorption in the epidermis. If the client has a sun tan it may be better to wait until the colour reduces to achieve the best results. The Ellipse has pre programmed treatment suggestions for different skin types.

The sensation will vary from client to client but it is the second strongest of all treatments. The sensation that is felt depends upon the amount of melanin found in the skin. The sensation is described as a heat sensation and a few clients compare it to mild sunburn after the treatment.

On average 1-3 treatments at 4 week intervals are needed for the best results. Top up treatments may be needed in the future to maintain these results. For the optimum collagen stimulation effect with skin rejuvenation, 6 treatments at 4 week intervals would be recommended. 

It is important to avoid tanning (sun, sunbed and fake tan) before and during the treatment period. If not, your skin will absorb more light, which makes the treatment less effective. Generally no-post treatment care is necessary, but patients with sensitive skin may benefit from applying soothing aloe vera gel. Futhermore, it is recommended to use a SPF 30+ daily.

The pigmentation will become darker in colour immediately after the treatment. A few days after the treatment, the pigmented areas will develop a light crust (this is a good sign that the treatment has worked). After that, the skin will look smoother and fresher. A few more treatment sessions may be required to keep a smooth and youthful appearance.

Clinical trials documenting Ellipse's safety and effectiveness are carried out by leading doctors prior to the release of the product. The results of these tests are then published in respected, refereed medical journals.