In this world of specialization, methods for improving your looks are getting more specialized as well. There are procedures that target fine lines, deep wrinkles, dull skin and others. The IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial deals almost exclusively with skin discoloration caused by sun damage, age spots, acne or rosacea, a condition that causes the skin to have a constantly flushed appearance.

The photo part of photofacial refers to light, similar to a laser. Different types of light and different positioning of the light beam give different results. In an IPL Photofacial a gentle form of concentrated light is projected under the skin with a special device, which does not burn or scrape the upper skin. This light pulse stimulates the body to produce collagen, the material that pumps and smoothes the skin from underneath.

The action of the pulse also reduces the appearance of surface capillaries (“spider veins”) on the nose and cheeks, as well as the redness of rosacea. Large pores and fine lines will also improve. The treatment is non-ablative, that is, the skin itself is not cut or breached in any way and can be done on the face, neck and hands. It usually takes 30 minutes or less. Depending on the severity of your skin problem, you may need between five and eight treatments at weekly intervals. It can also be used as a preventative for those who don’t have age spots.

The IPL Photofacial is painless, although patients sometimes describe the pulse of light as feeling like a rubber band snap. The doctor will give you a topical anesthetic, or a sedative, if you feel you need it, but most people do not. Since it is non-invasive, side effects are few, mild and rare. They include bruising, swelling or redness, all of which go away.

If you have severe acne or rosacea, the IPL Photofacial may not eliminate all the redness and bumps on your skin, but the rate is about 80 or 90 percent. So, the improvement will still be great. Ask your doctor if you may look at before and after pictures of patients he or she has treated to get an idea of how complete the results will be.

The cost of an IPL Photofacial depends on how much you need to have done and where. For example, treating blotchy discolorations that run across the entire back will cost more per treatment than a few age spots on the face or hands, and improving a few spider veins will be less expensive than large patches of rosacea.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery procedures such as facelift, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery can boost your self-esteem and improve your appearance.