Intense Pulsed Light

Information about Intense Pulsed Light

Intense Pulsed Light, also known as IPL, is a light-based technology that emits pulses across different wavelengths. It is commonly used for skin rejuvenation, the treatment of hyperpigmented areas, photoepilation, vascular lesions and dermatological conditions such as rosacea.

Its mechanism of action is based on the selective interaction of light with different skin chromophores — primarily water, melanin and haemoglobin — without damaging surrounding tissues. Because IPL emits a broad spectrum of light, it can be absorbed by both pigment and vascular structures, allowing simultaneous improvement of pigmented lesions and vascular abnormalities. In addition, the controlled delivery of heat to deeper skin layers stimulates collagen synthesis, contributing to improved skin firmness and a reduction in fine wrinkles.

The Grupo Pedro Jaén Laser Unit works with IPL systems designed to filter out unnecessary wavelengths and retain those that are effective for the specific condition being treated.

These systems are equipped with different handpieces depending on the clinical indication. They also allow the delivery of customised pulses for lesions with low chromophore content, making IPL particularly suitable for light-coloured pigmented lesions or fine telangiectasias that do not respond optimally to other light-based technologies.

Overall, IPL is a versatile treatment option that is effective, safe and generally well tolerated, with relatively short recovery times.

Applications of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

The IPL systems used by the Grupo Pedro Jaén Laser Unit feature multiple handpieces that emit different wavelengths, allowing treatments to be individualised according to each patient’s clinical characteristics and needs.

IPL treatments are applied to clean skin. In some cases, a topical anaesthetic may be applied beforehand to minimise potential discomfort.

IPL is generally well tolerated. Patients may experience warmth, transient redness of the treated area and, in some cases, temporary darkening of pigmented lesions, which usually resolves over the hours or days following treatment.

A specific recovery period or sick leave is not usually required, and patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately, provided that the photoprotection measures recommended by the dermatologist are strictly followed.

The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated, its extent and individual patient factors, but typically ranges from one to four sessions.

“In general, the best outcomes are achieved by combining different therapeutic options and initiating treatment at an early stage”

More information

Below you will find the authorship of the information provided on this page:

Grupo Pedro Jaén is a medical group founded more than three decades ago with the aim of providing medical, surgical and aesthetic solutions related to skin health and appearance. Led by Dr Pedro Jaén, the group has a highly specialised medical team that covers every area of care with top-level specialists, carries out extensive training activities, is a leader in medical research, and operates several clinics in Madrid, from which it offers the highest standards of care and clinical excellence to all patients.

In the Grupo Pedro Jaén Press Room you can find information, advice and news related to dermatology, aesthetic medicine, trichology and general health. The group’s journals are also shared through an online platform, along with updates on the activity and media appearances of our clinics and healthcare professionals.