Treating Acne/Rosacea With IPL From Beautiful U Edinburgh

You don’t have to let acne affect your confidence!

Beautiful U offers a range of successful acne treatments to leave your skin clear and blemish-free. Acne can be effectively treated with Intense Pulsed Light alone or in combination with other clinical treatments. Intense Pulsed Light treatments greatly reduce the number and severity of active lesions, lessening the inflammation and frequency of breakouts.

The presence of acne is often influenced by the following factors:

Hormones

For the majority of acne sufferers, outbreaks begin at puberty because the body begins to produce hormones called androgens. These hormones cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge, which is a natural part of the body’s development, but these glands are overstimulated for acne sufferers.  Androgens are also responsible for acne flare-ups associated with the menstrual cycle and, on occasion, pregnancy.

Oily Skin

When the sebaceous gland is stimulated by androgens, it produces extra sebum (oil).
The sebum mixes with common skin bacteria and dead skin cells shed from the follicle’s lining.  While this process is normal, extra sebum in the follicle increases the chances of clogging and can cause acne.  Stress levels have also affected sebum production and can increase the severity of acne.

Bacteria

The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes for short) is present on all skins and is part of the skin’s natural sebum maintenance system.  Once a follicle is plugged, P.acnes bacteria multiply rapidly, creating the chemical reaction we know as inflammation in the follicle and surrounding skin.

Inflammation

When you are exposed to unwanted bacteria your immune system sends in an army of white blood cells to attack.  This is why pimples can be red, swollen and painful.  The inflammatory response is different for everyone, but studies have shown that it is especially strong in adult women.  Fortunately, you have options!  There are many kinds of acne treatments available.  Like you, acne is highly individual, and the response to treatments varies from person to person.  Often, several treatments are recommended in combination.  We offer an extensive range of acne treatments and will advise on the most suitable procedure for you and your skin.

The light emitted from the Intense Pulsed Light system targets the bacteria responsible for acne, known as Propionibacterium acnes. The light energy destroys these bacteria, reducing inflammation and preventing future breakouts. Additionally, IPL can help reduce the redness and pigmentation associated with acne scars. IPL treatments also stimulate collagen production, which can further improve skin texture and elasticity. Over time, this can lead to a smoother and more even complexion. Many clients find that IPL not only helps with active acne but also enhances the overall appearance of their skin, giving it a healthier and more radiant glow.

A layer of chilled gel is applied to the skin to help guide the light. The light guide is placed onto the skin, and a short light pulse is released. The applicator is passed over the skin several times before moving onto the neighbouring area, and the process is repeated until the whole area is treated. Each pulse of light treats a large area of skin, so the duration of the treatment is very short. The gel is removed, and the skin is moisturised. During treatment, protective eyewear will be provided.

Almost everyone can be treated, apart from very dark-skinned or tanned individuals. If you are pregnant or taking Roaccutane (an acne medication), it is best not to undergo laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatment.

The procedure may cause mild discomfort, but it does not require anaesthesia. The sensation is often likened to the snap of a rubber band. To enhance comfort, we may cool the skin before and after the treatment.

Following treatment, it is common for the skin to show redness and feel warm with a tingling sensation. To alleviate any discomfort, the skin will be cooled, and a soothing gel is then applied.

After the treatment, the treated area may appear red, but this redness typically fades within a few hours. While most individuals do not encounter any other side effects, a small blister could develop in rare cases, or the skin might temporarily lighten or darken.

Depending on the area being treated and the severity of the skin condition, a typical treatment can take around 45-60mins.

The number of treatments needed varies from person to person, but generally, undergoing 6 Intense Pulsed Light sessions and 6 exfoliating treatments will lead to significant improvements in the condition and appearance of the skin.

Before receiving treatment, a consultation is required to gather information on your medical history to ensure suitability. Following this, you will be requested to sign a consent form and undergo a test patch before the procedure commences. Treatments can commence as early as 7 days after the patch test.