IPL treatment for pigmentation and redness - does it work?

Dental & Dermal is an aesthetics and dental clinic in central Oslo, run by Chenxiao Li. We use the Lumenis Stellar M22 - one of the world's most advanced IPL systems - for treating pigmentation, redness, and skin texture concerns. Here we explain honestly what IPL can and cannot do.

What is IPL?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a light-based treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to target pigment and haemoglobin in the skin. The light is selectively absorbed by coloured structures - dark spots, red blood vessels - without damaging surrounding tissue.

It's not the same as laser. Laser uses a single wavelength, while IPL uses a spectrum that can be customised to your specific concern using different filters.

What can IPL treat?

IPL is effective for:

• Sun damage and pigmentation spots (age spots, sun-induced dark marks)
• Rosacea and general redness
• Broken capillaries and couperose
• Uneven skin tone
• Mild acne scarring
• Poikiloderma (combination of pigment and vascular changes on the neck)

However, IPL is not the first choice for deep scars, active acne, or melasma (hormonally-driven pigmentation requires a different approach).

Lumenis Stellar M22 - why equipment matters

Not all IPL machines are equal. The Lumenis Stellar M22 is a medical-grade system featuring:

• Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT): Even energy distribution that delivers better results and lower risk of burns
• Multiple wavelength filters: Can be precisely tailored to pigment (515 nm) or vascular concerns (590 nm)
• Integrated cooling: Protects the skin during treatment

The difference between an advanced system and a cheap IPL machine is often the difference between results and disappointment - or in the worst case, burns.

How many treatments do you need?

Most people need 3–5 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart for optimal results:

• Pigmentation spots: 2–4 treatments (more defined spots respond fastest)
• Redness/rosacea: 3–5 treatments
• Broken capillaries: 2–3 treatments
• General skin improvement: 4–5 treatments

Results are cumulative - each treatment builds on the previous one.

What happens during and after treatment?

During treatment (20–30 minutes):

• You feel a light "snap" against the skin - like a rubber band
• Cooling gel and the machine's built-in cooling keep it comfortable
• Skin may appear slightly red immediately after

The first 3–7 days after:

• Pigmentation spots darken (this is desirable - it means they're responding)
• After 5–10 days, the darkened spots flake away
• Redness fades gradually over 1–2 weeks

Important: You must avoid sun exposure 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after treatment. SPF 50 sunscreen is mandatory throughout the treatment period.

What does IPL cost at Dental & Dermal?

IPL treatment at our clinic is priced by area:

• Full face: from 2,500 NOK per treatment
• Cheek/nose zone: from 1,800 NOK
• Neck or décolletage: from 2,500 NOK
• Package of 3 treatments: 10–15% discount

Who should avoid IPL?

IPL is not recommended for:

• Recently tanned or self-tanned skin (increased risk of burns)
• Very dark skin types (Fitzpatrick V–VI)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Those using Roaccutane (isotretinoin) - wait at least 6 months after completing the course
• Active skin infections in the treatment area

Chenxiao Li always conducts a thorough skin type assessment at the consultation to ensure IPL is safe and appropriate for you.

Is IPL right for you?

Bothered by pigmentation, redness, or uneven skin tone? At Dental & Dermal on Fridtjof Nansens Plass 9, Chenxiao Li provides a thorough assessment using the Lumenis Stellar M22. Call 939 66 888 for a consultation - we'll determine if IPL is the answer for your skin.