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IPL Photofacial in Calgary | Treat Brown Spots, Redness & Rosacea
IPL Photofacial Redness & Rosacea
Reveal clearer, more even skin with an IPL photofacial in Calgary, AB. Using Health Canada-approved Intense Pulsed Light (Cynosure Icon MaxG and Lumecca), our physician‑led team targets sun spots, freckles, redness, and rosacea with minimal downtime. We customize settings by Fitzpatrick skin type and start with a patch test for safety. Not sure if IPL or BBL is best? We'll guide you. Book your consultation today.
Book Your IPL Consultation Today
Join thousands of Calgary residents who’ve transformed their skin with IPL photorejuvenation.
Understanding IPL
IPL Photofacial in Calgary: What It Is and How It Works
A Light-Based Solution for Flawless Skin
An IPL photofacial is a non-invasive light treatment that improves your skin’s appearance without surgery or lengthy recovery. This photorejuvenation technique uses broad-spectrum light pulses to target specific skin concerns while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed.
Selective Photothermolysis: Oxyhemoglobin
IPL technology works through selective photothermolysis. The light energy seeks out chromophores in your skin - specifically melanin (responsible for dark spots) and oxyhemoglobin (found in blood vessels). When these chromophores absorb the light, they heat up and break down. We use single, double, or triple pulses with controlled pulse durations to match vessel size and chromophore thermal relaxation times for safer targeting. Your body then naturally removes the damaged pigment and vessels, revealing clearer skin.
IPL vs BBL (Sciton): Difference?
While IPL and BBL both use broad-spectrum light, BBL (BroadBand Light by Sciton) is a type of IPL platform—not a laser—and is known for advanced cooling, rapid pulse modulation, and consistent results across larger areas. Both treatments target similar concerns, but BBL may provide faster results with enhanced comfort. During your consultation, we'll recommend the best option for your specific needs.
Our Devices: Cynosure Icon MaxG, (Lumenis)
Our Calgary clinic uses top-tier IPL systems including the Cynosure Icon with MaxG handpiece, known for its precision and comfort. We also offer Lumecca IPL by InMode for powerful results. ResurFX by Lumenis is a 1565 nm non-ablative fractional laser for texture, pores, and acne scars, and pairs well with IPL for color plus texture in the same plan. Each device uses specific cutoff filters (515/560/590/615 nm) to target different concerns safely.
What It Treats
Expert Care and Clinical Results
What IPL Treats: Sun Damage, Brown Spots, Redness and Rosacea
Targeting the Signs of Sun Exposure and Aging
IPL is a versatile tool that effectively treats the signs of sun damage, including brown spots, age spots, and freckles. It is also highly effective at reducing redness, broken capillaries, and the flushing associated with rosacea, providing a more balanced skin tone.
Dual-Action Technology
Targets brown spots and redness in the same session
Minimal Downtime
Non-invasive with minimal downtime
Regulatory Assurance
Health Canada-approved devices with physician oversight
Customized Treatment Plan
Customized by Fitzpatrick type with safety-first protocols
Pigmented Lesions (Lentigines, Hyperpigmentation)
IPL excels at treating pigmented lesions including sun spots, age spots (lentigines), and freckles. The light targets excess melanin, causing these spots to darken temporarily before flaking off. Most hyperpigmentation issues respond well, though we carefully screen for melasma, which requires different treatment approaches.
Vascular Concerns Telangiectasia, Poikiloderma)
For vascular lesions like broken capillaries (telangiectasia) and overall facial redness from rosacea, IPL delivers impressive results. The light energy collapses visible blood vessels, reducing redness and evening out skin tone. Poikiloderma, that combination of redness and brown discoloration on the neck and chest, responds particularly well to IPL treatments.
Overall Rejuvenation: Elastin Support
Beyond targeting specific concerns, IPL stimulates collagen and elastin production. This boost in natural proteins improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and enhances overall skin clarity. Many patients notice their skin feels firmer and looks more youthful after a series of treatments.
Candidate Suitability
Who Is a Candidate?
A Safe and Effective Treatment for Lighter Skin Tones
IPL is ideal for individuals with lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-IV). While it is a very safe procedure, we will conduct a thorough consultation to identify any contraindications, such as recent sun exposure, to ensure the best possible outcome.
Ideal Skin Cautious
The best IPL candidates have light to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I-IV) with visible sun damage, brown spots, or redness. While newer IPL devices can treat darker skin types (V-VI) with specialized settings, extra care is needed to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). For deeper skin tones, we often prefer conservative IPL parameters, longer filters (590-615 nm), and may recommend Nd:YAG for vessels to reduce PIH risk. During your consultation, we'll assess your Fitzpatrick skin type to ensure safe, effective treatment.
Melasma, Recent Sun,
Some conditions make IPL unsuitable. If you have melasma, IPL might worsen the condition. Recent sun exposure or tanning increases risks. Those taking isotretinoin should wait six months after stopping. Pregnant or nursing mothers should postpone treatment. Photosensitizing medications (e.g., doxycycline/minocycline, thiazide diuretics, isotretinoin, St. John's wort) may require timing adjustments. We thoroughly screen for contraindications during your consultation.
Treatment Areas: Shoulders)
IPL works wonderfully on the face, but it's not limited to facial treatments. We commonly treat the neck, chest (décolletage), hands, and shoulders - anywhere sun damage appears. Each area may require different settings and session numbers for optimal results.
Your Step-by-Step Experience
Your Calgary IPL Visit: Consultation to Treatment Day
A personalized, professional journey to radiant skin.
From your initial skin analysis to the final moments of your treatment, we guide you through every step to ensure a comfortable and professional experience.
Prep Checklist: HSV Prophylaxis
Pre-treatment checklist:
Sun Avoidance
Avoid sun/self-tanner for 2 weeks; no recent tanning
Skincare Adjustments
Pause retinoids/AHAs/BHAs/benzoyl peroxide for 5-7 days pre-treat
Medication Review
Flag photosensitizing meds (e.g., doxycycline); adjust timing with your provider
Prophylactic Medication
Start HSV prophylaxis if treating near lips (as directed)
Clean Skin
Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin
What to Expect: Filters and Pulses
On treatment day, we cleanse your skin and apply cooling gel. You'll wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the bright light. Using a contact or sapphire cooling tip, we deliver precise light pulses across the treatment area. The entire process typically takes 20-45 minutes.
Comfort and Safety: Topical Numbing
Most patients describe IPL as feeling like a rubber band snap with warmth. The cooling tip makes treatment comfortable for most people. For sensitive areas or lower pain tolerance, we can apply topical anesthetics beforehand. Our experienced providers adjust settings to balance comfort with effectiveness.
Results & Recovery
Results, Recovery and Aftercare Timeline
Quick Recovery, Beautiful Results
You can return to your daily activities immediately after your treatment. You may experience some temporary redness and a darkening of brown spots, which will then flake off within 7-14 days, revealing clearer skin beneath.
"Peppering," Flaking
Right after treatment, pigmented spots darken - this "peppering" effect means the treatment worked. Over 7-14 days, these darkened spots flake off naturally. Do not pick flaking "pepper." Redness reduction happens gradually over 2-4 weeks. Full results appear after your complete treatment series.
Aftercare Essentials: Gentle Skincare
Quick aftercare guidelines:
- Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30-50; reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
- Avoid heat, hot showers, and intense workouts for 48 hours
- No exfoliants/retinoids for 5-7 days; do not pick flaking pigment
- Makeup is typically fine after 24 hours if skin is intact; use gentle cleanser/moisturizer
- Use cool compresses if needed
Calgary's year-round UVA exposure (high altitude, reflective snow) makes broad-spectrum SPF 30-50 with zinc oxide plus reapplication essential for protecting your investment.
Sessions Needed
Most patients need 3-5 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart for optimal results. Severe sun damage might require more sessions. After achieving desired results, annual maintenance treatments help preserve your improved skin quality, especially given Calgary's high altitude and intense UV exposure.
Safety & Risks
Risks, Side Effects and Health Canada Safety Standards
A Safe, Medically Supervised Treatment
The most common side effects are mild and temporary, including redness and a sunburn-like sensation. We use only Health Canada-approved devices and our skilled providers follow strict safety protocols to ensure a safe and effective treatment with minimal risk.
Common vs. Rare Skin Tones
Risk overview:
- Common: transient redness/edema, temporary darkening ("peppering")
- Less common: PIH, blistering, crusting—contact us if these occur
- Risk reduction: patch testing, conservative fluence, appropriate filters/pulse durations
Darker skin tones face higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is why proper assessment is crucial.
Contraindications Screening
We screen for medications that increase photosensitivity, autoimmune conditions, and healing disorders. Our medical director oversight ensures thorough safety protocols. Full disclosure of your medical history helps us provide safe, effective treatment.
Device Settings, Structure
Our IPL systems meet strict Health Canada approval standards. We customize wavelength filters based on your concerns - shorter wavelengths (515 nm) for superficial pigment, longer wavelengths (615 nm) for deeper vessels. This precision targeting maximizes results while minimizing risks.
Pricing & Alternatives
Cost and Alternatives in Calgary
A Smart Investment in Your Skin
The cost of an IPL Photofacial in Calgary depends on the treatment area, and we offer competitive pricing with discounted packages. While IPL is highly effective, we will also discuss alternative treatments like laser or chemical peels to ensure you choose the best option for your specific concerns.
Typical Pricing and Packages
We offer transparent per-session pricing and discounted packages to ensure you receive the recommended number of treatments for a radiant, long-lasting result.
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IPL photofacial costs in Calgary typically range from $200-500 per session, depending on treatment area and complexity. Package deals for multiple sessions often provide better value. During your consultation, we'll provide exact pricing based on your treatment plan.
Alternatives/Combos: BBL, ResurFX, Nd:YAG, Chemical Peels, RF Microneedling
Beyond IPL, we may recommend alternative or combination treatments such as BBL, peels, or laser to optimize your results for more complex or stubborn skin concerns.
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Sometimes IPL isn't the best choice. Alternatives include BBL for enhanced results, ResurFX non-ablative fractional laser for texture concerns, or Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser for stubborn vessels. Chemical peels address pigmentation differently, while RF microneedling tackles texture and laxity. We often combine treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation.
IPL vs Laser vs BBL: Choosing the Right Tool
During your consultation, we will help you understand the differences between IPL, laser, and BBL and select the technology best suited to your unique skin type and goals.
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IPL works best for multiple concerns simultaneously - both redness and brown spots. Specific lasers like Nd:YAG target individual issues more precisely. BBL offers IPL benefits with enhanced technology. Your consultation determines the ideal approach for your goals.
Why Choose Our Clinic
Why Choose Our Calgary Clinic
Expertise, Technology, and Patient-Focused Care
Our clinic stands out for its commitment to patient safety and satisfaction. We use the latest medical-grade IPL technology and our team of trained providers is dedicated to delivering personalized care and exceptional results.
Health and Physician Oversight
Our clinic uses only Health Canada-approved IPL systems under physician-led medical director oversight. This ensures you receive treatments that meet the highest safety and efficacy standards in Calgary, AB.
Experienced, Medically
Our licensed providers undergo extensive training in IPL technology and skin assessment. With medical supervision and evidence-based protocols, we deliver consistent, safe results for all skin types.
Customized Protocols Calgary
We never use one-size-fits-all approaches. Every treatment plan is customized based on careful skin typing, patch testing, and informed consent processes. Living in Calgary means dealing with intense UV exposure year-round, especially with our high altitude and reflective snow. We provide specific guidance for protecting your investment through Calgary's changing seasons, ensuring long-lasting results.
Start Your Skin Transformation Today
Don’t let sun damage, brown spots, or redness hold you back. Our Calgary IPL experts are ready to help you achieve the clear, radiant skin you deserve.
Our Location
Calgary Service Area & Directions
Your Local Vein Treatment Destination
Our clinic is conveniently located to serve clients from across Calgary and surrounding areas. We are your trusted, local experts for professional and effective vein treatment.
Parking, transit,
Easy access with ample free parking at our Calgary clinic. We're conveniently located near major roads with good transit access.
Serving Calgary,
We proudly serve patients throughout the greater Calgary area including Airdrie, Okotoks, and Cochrane.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Most Common Questions Answered
We have compiled a list of the most common questions we receive about double chin treatments. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and confident about your decision, from the science behind Belkyra to your long-term results.
IPL treatments in Calgary typically cost $200-500 per session. Most patients need 3-5 sessions for optimal results. Package pricing often provides better value.
After cleansing and applying cooling gel, we deliver light pulses across your skin. Treatment takes 20-45 minutes with minimal discomfort thanks to cooling technology.
Ideal candidates have light to medium skin tones with sun damage, brown spots, or redness. No recent tanning or certain medications.
Most patients need 3-5 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Severe damage may require additional treatments.
IPL is safest for Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV. Darker skin types can be treated with specialized settings but require extra precautions.
Common side effects include temporary redness and darkening of spots before they shed. Rare risks include blistering or PIH in darker skin.
IPL sessions typically take 20-45 minutes depending on the treatment area size.
There’s minimal downtime. Most people resume normal activities immediately, avoiding heat and sun for 48 hours.
IPL treats multiple concerns simultaneously. Lasers target specific issues more precisely. BBL offers enhanced IPL technology.
IPL effectively removes brown spots and reduces redness. Deep acne scars require different treatments like ResurFX.
Results last years with proper sun protection. Annual maintenance treatments help preserve improvements.
Yes, avoid sun exposure two weeks before and after treatment. Daily SPF 30+ is essential.
IPL can worsen melasma. Those with melasma, recent tanning, or photosensitizing medications should avoid IPL.
IPL and BBL excel at redness and brown spots. ResurFX targets texture concerns. Combinations often work best.
Generally, we recommend spacing treatments. Your provider will create a safe treatment schedule based on your needs.
BBL (Sciton) offers advanced cooling and rapid pulse modulation that can provide faster results for redness and rosacea. We recommend BBL for patients seeking enhanced comfort and efficiency, while traditional IPL remains excellent for budget-conscious patients with similar concerns.
For Fitzpatrick V-VI skin types, we use conservative IPL parameters with longer filters (590-615 nm) or may recommend Nd:YAG laser for vascular concerns to minimize PIH risk. A patch test helps determine the safest approach for your skin.
Makeup can usually be worn after 24 hours if skin is intact. Avoid workouts and heat for 48 hours. Wait 5-7 days before resuming retinoids or exfoliants to allow proper healing.
Ways to With Us
Supporting Collagen Production with Retinoids and Peptides
You have different questions?
Our team will answer your questions. We ensure a quick response.
Ready to Reveal Your Clearer, More Even Skin?
Say goodbye to stubborn brown spots, redness, and rosacea. Our IPL Photofacial treatments are designed to restore your skin’s natural radiance, leaving you with a smooth, beautiful complexion.