Laser Photofacial (IPL) Treatment: Restore Glow & Youthful Skin with Expert Care

Author

Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Mumbai, Dr Milan Doshi

Indian Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
M.CH, MS, ISAPS Mentor
15000+ Cosmetic Surgeries
500+ Laser Photofacial Treatment
  • Do you feel frustrated by worsening wrinkles and fine lines each time you look in the mirror?
  • Has sun damage, uneven pigmentation, or dull skin robbed you of your natural radiance?
  • Do you find yourself hiding behind makeup or filters because your skin no longer reflects your inner vitality?

Skin aging is inevitable, but premature dullness and damage can take a heavy toll on your self-confidence and emotional well-being. Many people feel anxious, avoid social gatherings, or struggle with low self-esteem due to tired-looking skin. Living in a world where appearance often shapes first impressions, this can be deeply unsettling.

Here’s the good news: Laser Photofacial Treatment (also known as Intense Pulsed Light or IPL therapy) is a safe, non-invasive solution that targets sun damage, fine lines, age spots, redness, and uneven tone. By stimulating collagen production and rejuvenating skin at a cellular level, it restores a youthful, glowing complexion without surgery or downtime.

Global & Indian Statistics (ISAPS 2023)

  • Globally, 1,598,867 energy-based skin rejuvenation treatments (including laser/IPL procedures) were performed in 2023, reflecting a 12.4% increase from 2022.
  • In India, laser and energy-based cosmetic treatments are among the fastest-growing segments, with thousands of patients opting for non-surgical facial rejuvenation each year.

Source: ISAPS Global Survey 2023

Let’s explore how Laser Photofacial works, who it’s best suited for, and the benefits you can expect for your skin health and confidence.


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What Is Laser Photofacial Treatment?

Laser Photofacial, also known as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to target and correct common skin concerns.
It works by delivering pulses of light into the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and breaking down pigmentation, redness, and sun damage.
This process restores a clearer, smoother, and more youthful-looking complexion without surgery or extended downtime.

The treatment is particularly effective for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, freckles, sun spots, acne scars, and broken capillaries.
Since it is customizable, it can be tailored to suit different skin types and problem areas—making it a versatile option for overall facial rejuvenation.

Synonyms for Laser Photofacial Treatment

  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy
  • Photorejuvenation
  • Laser Skin Rejuvenation
  • Photo Facial Therapy
  • Laser Light Facial
  • Skin Brightening Laser Treatment
  • Non-Surgical Skin Rejuvenation

Treating signs of Aging & Spots with Laser Photo Facial

Sr no Parameters Observation
1 Time required 30 mins
2 Anesthesia Absent
3 Pain Absent
4 Downtime Zero
5 Results Seen in 7 to 10 days

IPL photofacials even tone, fade sun spots and redness, with fast recovery, minimal discomfort, and treat multiple concerns by changing filters. Safe.

  • Scar-sparing & noninvasive: No cuts or stitches; surface remains intact.
  • Rapid recovery: Back to routine the same/next day for most patients.
  • Minimal discomfort: Built-in cooling and optional topical anesthetic.
  • Low risk when supervised: Patch testing and skin-type settings reduce PIH/burn risk.
  • Multi-concern solution: Swap filters to target redness, sun spots, pigmentation, small veins—and even hair.
  • Collagen boost: Gentle dermal stimulation for improved texture and radiance over weeks.
  • Customizable plans: Delivered in series with parameters tailored to Fitzpatrick skin type.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi’s expertise: Board-certified planning for safe settings, realistic outcomes, and strict aftercare.

IPL suits fair-to-medium skin with redness, sun spots, pigmentation, fine lines, acne scars, thread veins and unwanted hair—after expert assessment.

  • Redness & rosacea: Diffuse facial redness, flushing, broken capillaries.
  • Sun damage: Sun spots, age spots, photoaging and red, blotchy skin.
  • Hyperpigmentation: Post-inflammatory darkening and uneven tone (non-melasma focus).
  • Texture & lines: Fine lines and early wrinkles with mild surface roughness.
  • Acne marks: Residual redness/brown acne scars (PIE/PIH).
  • Small vessels: Facial spider veins/telangiectasia.
  • Unwanted hair: Reduction for lighter-to-medium skin types with dark hair.
  • Candidacy notes: Best for pale to light-brown skin; avoid recent tan/photosensitizing meds; patch test advised.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi expertise: Board-certified planning with Fitzpatrick-specific settings for safe, even results.

A dermatologist confirms diagnosis, checks risks, and tailors IPL settings to your skin type—ensuring safer, better results with clear aftercare.

  • Accurate diagnosis: Distinguishes redness, pigment, vessels, acne marks—so the right modality/filters are used.
  • Safety screening: Reviews meds (e.g., isotretinoin), allergies, pregnancy, HSV, tanning, and photosensitizers.
  • Skin-type matching: Fitzpatrick-specific fluence, pulse width, and cooling to reduce PIH/burn risk.
  • Customized plan: Targets your goals (spots, redness, pores, glow) with a series (typically 3–5 sessions) and maintenance.
  • Expectations & downtime: Explains timeline (pinkness/bronzing 24–72h) and when results peak.
  • Aftercare: SPF 50+, heat/sauna avoidance 24–48h, gentle skincare, and follow-up mapping.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi expertise: Board-certified oversight for filter selection, parameter safety, and natural, even outcomes.

IPL uses filtered light to heat melanin and hemoglobin via selective photothermolysis, clearing spots, redness and small veins while sparing skin.

  • Targeted energy: Changeable filters select wavelengths that pigments (melanin) and blood (hemoglobin) absorb.
  • Selective photothermolysis: Light converts to heat inside the target, breaking pigment and sealing tiny vessels while protecting nearby skin.
  • Collagen boost: Gentle dermal heating stimulates neocollagenesis for smoother texture over weeks.
  • Session plan: Typically 3–5 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart; maintenance as advised.
  • Safety features: Pulse stacking, built-in cooling, and Fitzpatrick-specific settings reduce PIH and burn risk.
  • Candidacy: Best for fair-to-medium skin tones; avoid recent tanning and photosensitizing medications.
  • Aftercare: SPF 50+, avoid heat/sauna for 24–48 hours, gentle skincare; expect brief redness or bronzing.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi’s expertise: Board-certified planning to pick the right filters, fluence, and pulse widths for safe, even results.

IPL uses filtered 400–1200 nm light. Doctors select 420, 515–560, 560–590 and 640–695+ nm filters for acne, pigment, redness/vessels and hair.

  • 420 nm (blue): Targets porphyrins in acne bacteria—helps active acne and post-acne redness.
  • 515–530 nm (green): Superficial pigment—sun spots, freckles, lentigines, uneven tone.
  • 540–560 nm (yellow-green): Diffuse redness/rosacea and tiny facial vessels (telangiectasia).
  • 560–590 nm (amber): Vascular redness and inflammation; post-acne erythema.
  • 590–615 nm: Slightly deeper vessels and mixed pigment/redness.
  • 640–695 nm+ (red band): Hair reduction (dark hair on lighter skin) and deeper vessels; often paired with strong cooling.
  • Device & skin-type nuance: Exact filters vary by platform; longer wavelengths/lower fluence for darker or tanned skin.
  • Safety & plan: Patch test, eye protection, 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks, strict SPF to prevent PIH.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi’s expertise: Board-certified selection of filter, fluence and pulse width matched to Fitzpatrick type for even, safe results.

An IPL photofacial involves cleansing, numbing, applying cooling gel, delivering filtered light pulses, and finishing with soothing care and SPF.

  • Consultation & Assessment: Skin analysis, review of medical history, and patch testing to ensure candidacy.
  • Preparation: Gentle cleansing of the skin; protective eyewear is provided. Topical numbing cream may be applied if needed.
  • Cooling Gel Application: A layer of clear gel is applied to improve comfort and light conduction.
  • Light Delivery: Handheld IPL device delivers filtered pulses of broad-spectrum light tailored to pigmentation, redness, or vessels.
  • Selective Targeting: Light converts to heat in melanin or hemoglobin, breaking down pigment or sealing vessels while sparing nearby skin.
  • Post-Treatment Care: Cooling packs, soothing creams, and mandatory broad-spectrum SPF are applied.
  • Downtime: Mild redness or bronzing fades in 24–72 hours; makeup usually safe the next day.
  • Review & Follow-Up: Typically 3–5 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart, for optimal results with Dr. Milan Doshi’s tailored planning.

Recovery is mild—expect redness or bronzing for 1–3 days. Dark spots may temporarily darken, flake, then clear. Daily SPF is essential post-care.

  • First 24–48 hours: Redness, warmth, or swelling similar to a mild sunburn; use cooling gels and avoid heat/sauna.
  • Days 3–7: Dark spots may darken and flake off naturally; skin tone starts to look more even.
  • Minimal downtime: Most patients resume work and normal activities the same or next day.
  • Makeup use: Typically safe after 24 hours if skin is intact.
  • Aftercare essentials: Apply SPF 50+, avoid direct sun exposure, and use gentle cleansers and moisturizers.
  • Full results: Visible clarity and glow improve after 1–2 weeks; best outcomes seen after completing 3–5 sessions.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi’s advice: Personalized aftercare plan and follow-up checks ensure safer, long-lasting results.

Early glow and clarity often appear in 7–10 days. Pigment spots flake in 1–2 weeks, redness reduces, and full results build over 3–5 sessions.

  • Immediate effect: Skin may look brighter within a few days due to surface refresh.
  • 1–2 weeks: Brown spots darken, then naturally shed, revealing clearer tone.
  • Redness reduction: Rosacea and vascular lesions lighten gradually across 2–3 weeks.
  • Collagen boost: Subtle textural improvements emerge over 4–6 weeks.
  • Series-based results: Best outcomes with 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
  • Longevity: Results last months with maintenance and strict SPF protection.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi’s expertise: Individualized filter and energy settings for steady, natural improvement.

IPL side effects are usually mild: redness, warmth, swelling, and pigment changes; rare burns or blisters. Expert settings and SPF minimize risk with.

  • Common & short-term: Redness, warmth, mild swelling, tingling; skin may look pink for 24–72 hours.
  • Burning sensation: Usually brief; in-built cooling and post-care gels improve comfort.
  • Bruising: Small purple spots can occur in up to ~10% and fade within days.
  • Pigment shifts: Temporary darkening/lightening (PIH/PHI), more likely on tanned/darker skin without strict SPF.
  • Rare events: Blistering or crusts if excess energy is absorbed; scarring is very uncommon with expert parameters.
  • How to reduce risk: Patch test, eye protection, avoid recent tanning/photosensitizing meds, follow SPF 50+ and 24–48 h heat/exercise avoidance.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi expertise: Board-certified selection of filters, fluence, and pulse widths tailored to your Fitzpatrick skin type for safer results.

In Mumbai, IPL photofacials usually cost ₹2,000–₹3,000 per session; final price depends on areas treated, filters used, skin type, and sessions needed.

  • What drives cost: Face/neck coverage, number of spots or veins, filter choice (pigment/redness/hair), and clinic expertise.
  • Typical plan: 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks; maintenance as advised.
  • What’s included (varies): Consultation, patch test, eye protection, cooling gel, post-care advice; add-ons billed separately.
  • Safety & value: Fitzpatrick-specific settings reduce PIH/burn risk; strict SPF aftercare improves results longevity.
  • Dr. Milan Doshi expertise: Board-certified oversight with itemized estimates and personalized filter/fluence selection.

Dr. Milan Doshi—board-certified in Mumbai—delivers safe, natural IPL photofacials using advanced tech, precise settings, and personal aftercare plans.

  • Board-certified expertise: Indian Board–certified Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon with 25+ years in lasers and skin rejuvenation.
  • IPL mastery: Filter/fluence tailored for redness, sun spots, pigmentation, vessels, and hair on fair-to-medium skin tones.
  • Skin-type safety: Fitzpatrick-specific parameters, patch testing, and cooling to minimize burns or PIH.
  • Personalized consult: Goal-based planning, session mapping (3–5 typical), and realistic timelines.
  • NABH-grade facility: Sterile workflow, eye protection, emergency readiness, and documented protocols.
  • Natural results: Balanced improvement—tone, clarity, and glow—without an overdone look.
  • Trusted care: Celebrity-preferred privacy and structured follow-ups for durable outcomes.

Allure Medspa—led by Dr. Milan Doshi—is Mumbai’s top centre for IPL photofacials, offering NABH safety, advanced tech, and personalized results safely

  • Board-Certified Leadership: Dr. Milan Doshi tailors IPL (laser photofacial) plans for redness, sun spots, pigmentation, and small veins.
  • NABH-Grade Safety: Accredited protocols, eye protection, patch testing, and device cooling for reduced PIH/burn risk.
  • Advanced IPL Platforms: Multiple filter options for targeted treatment; parameters matched to Fitzpatrick skin type.
  • Natural, Consistent Results: Series-based plans (typically 3–5 sessions) with clear timelines and measurable tone/clarity gains.
  • Comprehensive Care: Combination therapy available (peels, RF microneedling, lasers) when indicated for stubborn concerns.
  • Transparent Value: Itemized estimates, realistic downtime guidance, and maintenance planning.
  • Privacy & Comfort: Discreet, celebrity-trusted environment with structured aftercare and follow-ups.

ICD-10 Codes for Laser Photofacial Treatment

ICD-10 Code Description
L81.4 Other melanin hyperpigmentation (melasma, sunspots, age spots)
L81.9 Disorder of pigmentation, unspecified
L71.9 Rosacea, unspecified (facial redness treated with IPL/laser)
L98.8 Other specified disorders of skin and subcutaneous tissue
R23.4 Changes in skin texture (wrinkles, uneven tone)
Z41.1 Encounter for cosmetic procedure (aesthetic photofacial)

CPT Codes for Laser Photofacial Treatment

CPT Code Description
96920 Laser treatment of skin, non-ablative, first 250 cm² or less
96921 Laser treatment of skin, non-ablative; each additional 250 cm²
96922 Laser treatment of skin, non-ablative; extensive areas
17110 Destruction of benign lesions, up to 14 (if IPL used for spots/lesions)
17111 Destruction of benign lesions, 15 or more
17999 Unlisted procedure, skin (used when payer requires IPL/Photofacial to be captured as cosmetic)
96999 Unlisted dermatologic service or procedure (alternative for advanced IPL packages)

Q1. What are the disadvantages of a Photofacial?

Ans. Photofacials may cause temporary redness, swelling, mild discomfort, or pigment changes. Rare risks include blistering, scarring, or burns—especially if performed by an untrained provider.

Q2. What are the visible effects of a Photofacial?

Ans. A photofacial improves skin tone, reduces pigmentation, treats sun damage, minimizes pores, and boosts collagen production—leaving the skin brighter and clearer.

Q3. Is a Photofacial painful?

Ans. Most patients report mild stinging or snapping sensations during the procedure, similar to a rubber band on the skin. Numbing cream may be used to minimize discomfort.

Q4. Which is better—Hydrafacial or Photofacial?

Ans. Hydrafacial hydrates and exfoliates the skin’s surface, while Photofacial targets deeper pigmentation and vascular issues. Your choice depends on skin goals—both can complement each other.

Q5. Does a Photofacial remove tanning?

Ans. Yes, IPL photofacials can lighten superficial tanning and sunspots by breaking down melanin. However, multiple sessions may be needed for deeper pigmentation.

Q6. Can a Photofacial remove facial hair?

Ans. IPL Photofacials are not designed for hair removal. Although some hair may be reduced as a side effect, laser hair removal is more effective for long-term results.

Q7. Is a Photofacial permanent?

Ans. Photofacial results are long-lasting but not permanent. Maintenance sessions every 6–12 months are recommended as aging, sun exposure, and lifestyle affect the skin continuously.

Q8. How many sessions of Photofacial are typically required?

Ans. On average, 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart are needed for optimal results. The number may vary depending on skin type and the severity of concerns.

Q9. Is Photofacial good for acne-prone skin?

Ans. Yes, IPL photofacials can reduce acne-causing bacteria, minimize redness from active acne, and fade post-acne pigmentation. It should be done under dermatologist guidance.

Q10. How much does a full-face IPL Photofacial cost in India?

Ans. A single session typically costs ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 in India, depending on the clinic’s reputation, machine quality, and treatment area. Packages offer better value.

Q11. When can I wash my face after a Photofacial?

Ans. You can gently wash your face with cool water 4–6 hours post-treatment. Avoid hot water, harsh cleansers, or scrubbing for at least 48 hours.

Q12. What is the recovery time after an IPL Photofacial?

Ans. Most people experience minor redness or swelling that subsides within 2–3 days. You can resume normal activities immediately, but sun protection is crucial.

Q13. Will I see results after my first IPL Photofacial session?

Ans. Yes, mild improvement is often visible after the first session, but dramatic changes typically occur after 3–4 treatments as collagen builds and pigmentation fades.

Q14. What should your face look like after a Photofacial?

Ans. Your skin may look slightly red or flushed, and dark spots may temporarily darken before flaking off. Within a week, your skin will appear clearer and more even-toned.

Q15. Will a Photofacial remove dark spots?

Ans. Yes, photofacials effectively target sunspots, age spots, and pigmented lesions by breaking down excess melanin in the skin.

Q16. Can I wear makeup after a Photofacial?

Ans. It’s best to avoid makeup for 24–48 hours to allow your skin to heal and reduce the risk of irritation or clogging the pores.

Q17. What’s the difference between IPL and BBL Photofacial?

Ans. Both use intense pulsed light, but BBL (BroadBand Light) is a newer, more advanced version offering better customization and comfort during the procedure.

Q18. Is a Photofacial cheaper than laser treatments?

Ans. Yes, Photofacials are often more affordable than laser treatments. However, they may require multiple sessions and are best suited for superficial concerns.

Q19. What not to do after a Photofacial?

Ans. Avoid sun exposure, hot baths, vigorous exercise, harsh skincare products, and picking at treated areas for at least 48 hours post-treatment.

Q20. What are the benefits of a Photofacial over a chemical peel?

Ans. Photofacials treat pigmentation and vascular issues without skin peeling, whereas chemical peels exfoliate the outer layer. Photofacials offer a gentler, no-downtime alternative.

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