IPL Photofacial in San Francisco, CA

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about IPL Photofacials

An intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacial treatment uses light energy to deeply penetrate the layers of the skin, minimizing the appearance sun spots, freckles, redness, and facial capillaries. The result is more even toned, youthful, and fresh looking skin. At Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology, we offer the latest photofacial technology, using the advanced Cutera Xeo Limelight and Palomar Icon lasers. San Francisco Bay area patients who are concerned with sun damage, uneven skin tone, or skin pigmentation should consider scheduling a consultation to learn more about the benefits of the IPL photofacial treatment at our office.

Best Candidates

An IPL photofacial is perfect for anyone who wants more even toned, bright, and youthful looking skin. This Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved procedure is noninvasive and safely treats the face, neck, and decollete. Patients with redness, freckles, or brown spots caused by sun damage are also good candidates for this treatment.

What to Expect

Directly before the procedure begins, the patient will be given eyewear to protect them from the bright light of the treatment. One of our registered nurses will then apply a cooling gel on the treatment area and then place the IPL handpiece over the treatment area. Varying wavelengths will penetrate the skin in order to reach deep levels of the skin. Most patients experience a tolerable level of discomfort as the treatment feels hot and like a slight sting or rubber band snap. The time of the treatment varies on the size of the treatment area, as well as the condition of the patient’s skin.

Other Considerations

Since this is a noninvasive treatment, there is minimal downtime and most patients can return to their daily activities immediately after their appointment. Common side effects include some redness, splotchy areas, and skin darkening that usually subsides within a few hours. We offer all of our patients complimentary cover up makeup using our skin friendly mineral makeup powders and concealers. For about three to five days following the procedure, the patient may notice small flecks of pigment rising to the surface of their skin. As Dr. Welsh always says, it looks as though the patient has “cinnamon sprinkled on their skin.”  As the skin heals, these tiny pigment spots will naturally shed to reveal noticeably younger, smoother, and  more even-toned skin. To achieve the best results, a series of about four treatments, spaced one month apart is typically recommended.

I've been going here for 10 years.  At age 29 I developed acne and tried everything to clear it up although I could never talk myself into Accutane.  (Eventually I discovered acne.org - it's like Proactive but lower dosage of active ingredient so my skin tolerates it better.  I use it daily and it really does keep me clear MOST of the time.). I get regular photo facials Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology to clear up red spots that breakouts leave behind as well as brown pigmentation / sun damage.  I get compliments all the time that I don't look my age, and' "You have such beautiful skin."  Each time I respond with "I have a great dermatologist."  I have two other close friends who've been coming here for 10+ yrs and I'm telling you, they look 10 yrs younger than they are.I have been VERY satisfied with every procedure I've had here.  Worth every penny for the results and excellent care.  My regular nurse Mary Krempa is a dream to work with, as are all the nurse practitioners I've seen so far.  This frequent flier can't say enough good things about Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology.

G.F. Yelp

I've been going here for 10 years.  At age 29 I developed acne and tried everything to clear it up although I could never talk myself into Accutane.  (Eventually I discovered acne.org - it's like Proactive but lower dosage of active ingredient so my skin tolerates it better.  I use it daily and it really does keep me clear MOST of the time.). I get regular photo facials Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology to clear up red spots that breakouts leave behind as well as brown pigmentation / sun damage.  I get compliments all the time that I don't look my age, and' "You have such beautiful skin."  Each time I respond with "I have a great dermatologist."  I have two other close friends who've been coming here for 10+ yrs and I'm telling you, they look 10 yrs younger than they are. I have been VERY satisfied with every procedure I've had here.  Worth every penny for the results and excellent care.  My regular nurse Mary Krempa is a dream to work with, as are all the nurse practitioners I've seen so far.  This frequent flier can't say enough good things about Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology.

G.F. Yelp

Wow, what I can say?! I love Dr. Hui because Dr. Hui made me love my skin again. I don't frown at myself in the mirror the first thing in the morning anymore. I see an overall improvement in my skin tone and texture and got compliments from coworkers and friends who noticed a difference in a few weeks. I looked up Dr. Hui on yelp and decided to give her a try. My skin before I saw Dr. Hui was very sensitive, dry and sun damaged; my skin was also thinning due to aging so I lost volume around my eyes, cheeks and especially around my smiley line area. I met with Dr. Hui, who quickly identified my skin issues, and took time to ask me what my goals are with my skin, made some recommendations on daily home skin care and answered my questions. Dr. Hui stressed that the majority of improvement to my skin can be done at home if I follow my regime and stay out of sun. Our goal for me is to have beautiful skin that doesn't need any makeup to cover up. We settled on a home care regime that I thought was agreeable, decided to get fillers that day and photo facials in a few weeks. Dr. Hui performed the injections of the fillers her self, she was fast and gentle and I didn't get any bruise at all. After I went home, I started using the products she recommended and following the home care regime we agreed upon. My skin has improved significantly over the past few weeks. The products Dr. Hui recommend for me to use as part of my home care skin routine were reasonably priced compared to skin care products at Sephora, SAKs or Neiman. The best part that made me have more confidence in purchasing skin care products based on Dr. Hui's recommendations is that her recommendations are based on my skin, what need to be improved and what need to be corrected, very personal and there is no guessing game. I went back to see Dr. Hui after 4 weeks of following my home care regime for our scheduled photo facial. Once again, Dr. Hui performed the photo facial herself, she was fast and gentle but took care to make sure she didn't miss any spots. During the procedure she asked and made sure I was comfortable. She also explained to me what to expect after the photo facial and stressed about staying out the sun while the skin is healing. Dr. Hui also shared her stories of how to keep UV damage low while she was vacationing at the Galapogos, which I thought was very personable and really shows she practices what she preaches. I'm really looking forward to my results after my second photo facial in a few weeks. It's always pleasant to see Dr. Hui knowing I'm in good hands and my skin as well.

A.L. Yelp

Katy was wonderful! Very attentive and thorough, super friendly. I hope to see her again for any future laser treatments! Thank you, Katy!

L.C. Google

I started seeing Dr. Welsh in my early 30’s for adult acne. She taught me proper skincare and set me up with the best products. I am checking in yearly to keep products on point with current skin changes. As I age, I need to choose to come in Every 4-6 months for botox & filler. Plus an occasional photo facial and laser hair removal treatments.  It is now 20 years later I honestly could pass for ten years younger than I am. Dr. Welch is magical, in my opinion. If you ask her a question, you are going to get an honest, educated answer. I would not trust anyone else.

T.Q. Yelp

16

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating

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Turn Back The Hands Of Time

It’s time to go deeper with IPL photofacial to produce younger-looking, more even-toned skin. Schedule an appointment to learn how IPL at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology can transform your appearance.

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