Question 1

What is Ellipse IPL™ and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Ellipse IPL™ (Intense Pulsed Light) is a narrowband light technology on the Candela Nordlys® platform. It uses dual light filters and sub-millisecond pulses to precisely target pigment and vascular irregularities in the skin — reducing age spots, sun damage, redness, and rosacea without damaging surrounding tissue.

Question 2

What skin concerns does IPL treat?

Accepted Answer

Ellipse IPL™ is effective for sun damage, age spots, brown spots, uneven pigmentation, diffuse redness, rosacea, facial telangiectasias (broken capillaries), and overall skin tone improvement. It is commonly used on the face, neck, décolletage, and hands.

Question 3

How many IPL sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most patients achieve their desired results in 3–5 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart. The number of sessions depends on the severity of the concern, skin type, and individual response. A personalized plan is created during your consultation.

Question 4

When will I see results from IPL?

Accepted Answer

Pigmented lesions typically darken and flake off within 7–10 days after each session, revealing clearer skin underneath. Vascular redness and rosacea improvements are often visible within 2–3 weeks. Results continue to improve with each subsequent session.

Question 5

Is IPL safe for all skin types?

Accepted Answer

Ellipse IPL™ is best suited for lighter Fitzpatrick skin types (I–IV) without an active tan. The dual-filter technology makes it safer and more precise than older broadband IPL devices. A thorough consultation and skin assessment is performed before every treatment at 86INK.

Question 6

What should I expect after an IPL treatment?

Accepted Answer

Mild redness and warmth are common immediately after treatment, similar to a light sunburn, and typically resolve within a few hours. Pigmented spots will darken and appear to 'pepper' the skin before flaking off over 7–10 days. This is a normal part of the healing process.

Question 7

What should I avoid after IPL?

Accepted Answer

Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanner for at least 2 weeks after treatment. Do not pick or scrub the darkened spots — allow them to flake off naturally. Avoid heat environments such as saunas and hot tubs for 48 hours.

Question 8

What skincare products can I use after IPL?

Accepted Answer

Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a bland moisturizer for the first week. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning without exception. Avoid retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs until the skin has fully settled (typically 5–7 days).

Question 9

How long does downtime last after IPL?

Accepted Answer

IPL is a non-ablative treatment with minimal downtime. Most patients experience mild redness for a few hours and visible darkening of pigmented spots for 7–10 days. Social downtime is typically 1–3 days, depending on the number of spots treated and individual skin sensitivity.

Question 10

Why do my brown spots look darker after IPL — is that normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is completely expected and is called 'peppering.' The IPL energy heats the melanin in pigmented spots, causing them to oxidize and temporarily darken to a coffee-ground or dark brown appearance. Over 7–10 days these spots naturally exfoliate off the skin surface, revealing clearer skin underneath. Do not pick or scrub them — let the process happen naturally.

Question 11

Can I wash my face the day of my IPL treatment?

Accepted Answer

You may gently cleanse your face the evening of your treatment using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat dry — do not rub. Avoid any active ingredients (retinoids, acids, vitamin C) and exfoliating tools for at least 5–7 days post-treatment.

Question 12

When can I wear makeup after IPL?

Accepted Answer

We recommend avoiding all makeup for the first 24 hours after IPL to allow the skin to recover. After 24 hours, mineral-based makeup is generally well-tolerated. Avoid heavy or occlusive foundations until the peppering has fully resolved (7–10 days), as rubbing can dislodge the darkened spots prematurely.

Question 13

Can I exercise after IPL?

Accepted Answer

Avoid vigorous exercise, hot yoga, saunas, and activities that cause significant sweating for at least 48 hours after your IPL session. Heat and sweat can increase inflammation and irritate the treated skin. Light walking is fine. Most clients resume their full workout routine on day 3.

Question 14

How important is sun protection after IPL?

Accepted Answer

Sun protection is essential — not optional — after IPL. The treated skin is highly photosensitive during the healing phase, and UV exposure can trigger new pigmentation or reverse your results. Wear a broad-spectrum mineral SPF 30+ every single day, reapply every 2 hours if outdoors, and wear a wide-brim hat. This is the single most important thing you can do to protect your investment.

Question 15

What should I do if my skin feels very red or irritated after IPL?

Accepted Answer

Mild redness and warmth are expected for a few hours after treatment. If redness is significant or persists beyond 48 hours, apply a cool (not ice-cold) compress and a fragrance-free soothing moisturizer. Avoid all active ingredients. If you develop blistering, significant swelling, or signs of infection, contact 86INK at (918) 212-4747 for guidance.

Question 16

How long do IPL results last?

Accepted Answer

Results from a full IPL series typically last 12–18 months. Sun protection is essential to maintaining results, as UV exposure is the primary driver of pigmentation recurrence. Annual maintenance sessions help sustain the improvement.

Question 17

How often should I have maintenance IPL treatments?

Accepted Answer

After completing an initial series, most patients benefit from 1–2 maintenance sessions per year. Patients with active rosacea or significant sun exposure may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Your provider will recommend a schedule based on your skin's response.

Question 18

Can IPL be combined with other treatments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IPL pairs exceptionally well with Frax 1550™ fractional laser as part of the Light & Bright™ combination treatment, which addresses both pigmentation and texture in a single session. It can also be combined with medical microneedling or neurotoxin injections on a staggered schedule.

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Ellipse IPL™ Photorejuvenation

What Is Ellipse IPL™?

Conditions Treated

Rosacea

Age Spots & Sun Damage

Uneven Pigmentation

Facial Telangiectasias

Poikiloderma of Civatte

Photorejuvenation

Light & Bright™ — IPL + Frax in One Session

IPL FAQ

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