IPL with ResurFX™
At Gordon Schanzlin New Vision Institute, located in La Jolla and serving patients throughout San Diego, we now offer a combined IPL and laser skin rejuvenation treatment on the Lumenis® M22 platform. By pairing OptiLight™ Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) with ResurFX™ fractional laser technology in a single visit, this approach treats fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, redness, and uneven texture more comprehensively than either treatment can address on its own.
About This Treatment
Most skin rejuvenation treatments work on either the surface of the skin or the deeper layers beneath it. This combined treatment does both at once, which means fewer visits and more complete results.
OptiLight IPL uses FDA-approved broadband light to reduce redness, sun damage, brown spots, and broken capillaries. It targets discoloration and inflammation at the skin’s surface, making it particularly effective for patients dealing with rosacea or years of sun exposure.
ResurFX works deeper. This non-ablative fractional laser creates precise zones of controlled heat beneath the skin’s surface, stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. The result is smoother texture, softer fine lines, and reduced scarring, without removing or damaging the outer layer of skin.
Conditions We Treat
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and age spots
- Uneven skin tone and discoloration
- Broken capillaries and facial redness
- Rosacea-related flushing
- Skin texture and acne scarring
What to Expect
Before Your Treatment
To get the best results and minimize the risk of side effects, we recommend the following in the weeks before your appointment:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 2 to 4 weeks prior to treatment
- Discontinue retinoids and certain topical medications in the days leading up to your appointment
- Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup and skincare products
- If you have a history of cold sores, let us know in advance as a preventive antiviral medication may be recommended
- A topical numbing cream may be applied before your session begins
During Your Treatment
- Protective eyewear is worn throughout the procedure
- A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area to help soothe the skin
- The OptiLight™ IPL portion delivers brief pulses of light; most patients feel a mild snapping or warming sensation
- The ResurFX™ laser follows, with a similar but slightly more intense sensation
- Sessions typically take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the treatment area
After Your Treatment
- Skin may appear pink or flushed immediately after treatment, similar to a mild sunburn
- Some swelling and temporary darkening of brown spots is normal and expected
- Redness typically resolves within a day or two
- Avoid direct sun exposure and wear SPF daily following treatment
- Makeup can usually be applied within 24 hours
- Full results develop gradually as collagen remodeling continues over several weeks to months
Frequently Asked Questions
Which areas of the body can be treated?
This treatment is suitable for the face, neck, chest, and hands.
Is this treatment right for my skin type?
The combined IPL and laser treatment is effective for Fitzpatrick skin types I through IV. Your provider will assess your skin during your consultation to confirm candidacy.
How many sessions will I need?
A series of 3 to 5 sessions is typically recommended for optimal results. Your provider will recommend a treatment plan based on your individual skin concerns.
How much downtime should I expect?
Downtime is minimal. Most patients return to their normal activities shortly after treatment, though you should plan to avoid direct sun exposure in the days following each session.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are looking for a non-invasive way to address fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, or uneven skin tone, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our La Jolla office, conveniently located for patients throughout the San Diego area. Our team will review your skin concerns and medical history to determine whether this treatment is the right fit for you.
The doctors at Gordon Schanzlin New Vision Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.
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