IPL for wrinkles
Light with an indication · not with promises
The Stellar M22’s IPL (intense pulsed light) stimulates collagen and improves texture and tone in photoaged skin. It works well on fine lines and sun-damaged skin. Deep wrinkles and skin laxity need other tools.
IPL for wrinkles is an intense pulsed light treatment that heats the dermis to stimulate collagen and improve texture, tone and fine lines. It isn’t a laser: it emits broad-spectrum light. At iki it’s performed with the Lumenis Stellar M22, in sessions of 30 to 60 minutes. Typically 3 to 6 sessions are recommended, 4 to 6 weeks apart.
- Session length
- 30–60 min depending on the area
- Sessions
- Usually 3 to 6
- Interval
- 4 to 6 weeks
- Recovery
- Minimal · temporary redness
- Technology
- Stellar M22 · IPL
- Areas
- Face, neck, chest, hands
Who it’s for · and who it isn’t
Indicated when
- Fine lines and uneven texture from photoaging
- Skin with uneven tone, sun spots or diffuse redness in addition to fine lines
- People who want to improve skin quality without needles
- Anti-aging maintenance for adult skin that already uses sunscreen
Not the right time if
- Deep wrinkles or pronounced expression lines · the indication is botulinum toxin or fillers
- Moderate skin laxity · IPL doesn’t lift tissue
- A recent tan or use of photosensitizing medications
- Melasma · light can make it worse, and it needs a different plan
The physician makes the final indication at the consultation. Results vary from patient to patient.
How an IPL session for wrinkles works at iki
Before the first session there’s an evaluation to define the protocol. The light is adjusted to each skin type.
Consultation and skin type
The physician evaluates the type of wrinkles, your skin tone, recent sun exposure and the medications you take. From that, they decide whether IPL is indicated.
Prep
The skin is cleansed, a cold gel is applied and you put on protective eyewear.
Light pulses
The Stellar M22’s handpiece moves across the area with pulses of light. It feels like a light tingling or warmth.
Close
The gel is removed, the skin is calmed and sunscreen goes on. You receive your aftercare in writing.
What it offers
Stimulates collagen
The heat of the light in the dermis activates collagen production. Fine lines soften gradually.
Improves texture and tone
It works on sun spots and diffuse redness at the same time. Skin looks more even.
Non-invasive
No needles, no wounds. It’s an option for people who prefer to avoid surgical procedures.
Quick recovery
Most patients get back to their day the same day.
Technology with an indication
Lumenis Stellar M22 · IPL
The Stellar M22 is a Lumenis platform that brings together IPL, ResurFX, Nd:YAG and Q-Switched. Its IPL module emits broad-spectrum light with filters chosen for the goal and the skin type. We use it because it lets us treat fine lines, sun spots and redness in the same session with controlled settings.
Results and aftercare
Some improvement in tone and texture can be seen after the first session. The effect on fine lines is gradual and is assessed once the plan is complete, because it depends on new collagen. Results are usually maintained with daily sunscreen and maintenance sessions. IPL doesn’t stop aging · it works alongside it.
Aftercare after the session
- Daily sunscreen · it’s half the result
- Avoid direct sun before and after each session
- No self-tanners or exfoliants in the days around the session
- Treated spots may darken for a few days before flaking off · don’t pick them off
- Gentle hydration, and cool water if you feel warmth
Results vary from patient to patient.
Pairs well with
Anti-aging and skin laxityBotox
Botulinum toxin temporarily relaxes the muscles that etch expression lines into the forehead, the frown area and the crow’s feet.…
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Anti-aging and skin laxityHIFU for skin laxity
HIFU uses focused ultrasound to heat deep layers of the skin and stimulate new collagen, with no incisions and no needles. It…
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Anti-aging and skin laxityRF microneedling
Fractional radiofrequency microneedling combines micro-channels in the skin with heat in the dermis to stimulate collagen and…
See treatmentFrequently asked questions
Is IPL a laser?
No. IPL emits broad-spectrum pulsed light, while a laser uses a single wavelength. That’s why it treats several targets at once, such as texture, sun spots and redness. The Stellar M22 has both types of module, and the physician chooses which to use for each case.
Does IPL for wrinkles hurt?
It’s well tolerated. You’ll feel a light tingling or warmth on the skin with each pulse. The cold gel helps keep the session comfortable. If an area is more sensitive, the physician adjusts the settings during the session.
How many IPL sessions do I need?
In general, 3 to 6 sessions are recommended, 4 to 6 weeks apart, so the skin can recover and produce collagen. The exact number is set at the consultation based on the type of wrinkles and the quality of your skin.
How long is each session?
Between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area. Treating only the face takes less time than adding the neck, chest or hands. Prep and the close with sunscreen are included in that time.
Does it work for deep wrinkles?
It isn’t its main indication. IPL improves fine lines and skin quality. Deep wrinkles or pronounced expression lines respond better to botulinum toxin, fillers or deeper technologies. We’ll tell you at the consultation, even if that changes the plan.
Can it be done on darker or tanned skin?
IPL isn’t equally safe for every skin tone. On darker or recently tanned skin the risk of spots increases, so the physician evaluates your skin type and sun exposure before each session. Sometimes it’s better to wait or choose another technology.
Can I have it during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It isn’t done during pregnancy. The hormonal changes of this stage also increase the risk of spots. During breastfeeding, the decision is made at the consultation. In the meantime, sunscreen and a gentle routine take care of your skin.
How do I know if IPL is right for me?
Through a medical consultation that reviews the type of wrinkles, your skin tone and your medications. Your consultation at iki is free · 45 minutes · with a diagnosis and a written plan.
Read before your appointment
Is IPL for wrinkles right for you? · we’ll see at the consultation
Forty-five minutes with a physician, a skin analysis and a written, phased plan with complete prices. You decide afterwards, with no pressure. Living abroad? Start with a virtual consultation.