Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is generally not considered painful, though some patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Discomfort during the procedure is typically mild and can be minimized with the use of cooling gels or numbing creams. After treatment, the skin may feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn, but this sensation usually subsides within a few hours. At Somenek + Pittman MD in Washington, D.C., our clinicians prioritize patient comfort to ensure a smooth and manageable experience.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Most patients typically require 3 to 6 IPL sessions, spaced approximately 4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. The exact number of appointments depends on the specific skin concerns being treated and individual goals. While IPL can significantly improve skin tone, texture, and pigmentation, the results are not entirely permanent, as factors like sun exposure and aging can cause new concerns to develop over time. To maintain results, occasional touch-up sessions and a good skincare routine, including sun protection, are recommended.

How Long Until I See Results?

With Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), you may notice an improvement in skin tone and texture within a few days after your first session. However, optimal results typically emerge gradually over the course of 3 to 6 treatments as the skin continues to heal and regenerate. Dark spots or pigmentation often appear darker initially before fading, and repeated sessions may help diminish redness or vascular concerns.

Can I Combine IPL With Other Procedures?

Yes, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) can be effectively combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance results and address multiple skin concerns simultaneously. For example, pairing IPL with treatments such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion can enhance skin texture and tone by targeting different layers of the skin. Additionally, combining IPL with Botox or dermal fillers offers a comprehensive approach to anti-aging, addressing both skin quality and volume loss. At Somenek + Pittman MD in Washington, D.C., our clinicians can create a customized treatment plan to ensure the best outcomes tailored to your unique needs.

What Are the Risks Associated With IPL?

IPL is a treatment that makes your skin visibly illuminated with no downtime. This anti-aging treatment helps to stimulate collagen, remove superficial sun damage and redness, and visibly even out the skin tone. IPF photofacials are generally safe to have. However, there are potential risks and complications that you should consider. These risks and complications include the following: Redness Swelling Pain and discomfort Skin sensitivity Skin irritation Hyperpigmentation Hypopigmentation Blistering Skin crusting Potentially reactivating cold sores

Washington, D.C.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Introduction to Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Discoloration, dullness, and visible signs of aging can be frustrating skin concerns for men and women seeking a brighter, more youthful appearance. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, performed by our skilled clinicians at S+P Med Spa in Washington, D.C., offers a powerful solution for men and women looking to rejuvenate their complexion. This non-invasive treatment targets a wide range of skin concerns, including redness, age spots, and fine lines, leaving your skin looking clearer and more radiant. With state-of-the-art technology and personalized care, IPL can help you achieve the smooth, glowing skin you’ve always desired.

What is IPL?

IPL is a treatment that makes your skin visibly illuminated with no downtime. This anti-aging treatment helps to stimulate collagen, remove superficial sun damage and redness, and visibly even out the skin tone.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to address a variety of skin concerns, including sun damage, redness, pigmentation, and fine lines. Using broad-spectrum light energy, IPL targets the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and correct uneven tone and texture. The procedure is gentle, requires minimal downtime, and is customized to suit each patient’s unique needs. At S+P Med Spa in Washington, D.C., our skilled clinicians use advanced techniques to deliver clearer, more radiant skin with natural-looking results.

A woman lies on a light beige massage table, receiving an LED facial treatment. A professional in a dark purple/navy top holds a dark grayish-purple LED hood emitting red and purple lights over the client's face. The client is covered with a white quilted sheet, and soft pinkish-purple light glows across her face and the area. Light-colored spa equipment and vertically-lined drapes are visible in the background. - Intense Pulsed Light IPL in Washington, DC and New York, NY

What Are the Benefits of IPL?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) offers numerous benefits, including the targeted treatment and improvement of skin concerns such as discoloration, sun damage, redness, and fine lines. IPL helps create a smoother, more radiant complexion with natural-looking results by stimulating collagen production and addressing uneven tone. This non-invasive treatment requires minimal downtime, making it a convenient and effective option for men and women seeking skin rejuvenation.

Who Are the Best Candidates For IPL?

The best candidates for IPL are individuals with fair to light-medium skin tones who wish to address concerns such as sun damage, redness, pigmentation, or fine lines. This treatment is particularly effective for those with uneven skin tone, age spots, or visible blood vessels, as it targets these issues without damaging the surrounding skin. Patients with realistic expectations and a commitment to following pre- and post-treatment care instructions are ideal for IPL.

What’s the
First Step?

The first step in receiving an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment is scheduling a consultation with one of the skilled clinicians at S+P Med Spa in Washington, D.C. During this initial appointment, your skin concerns and goals will be assessed to determine if IPL is the right solution for you. Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan and provide you with all necessary information about the procedure, including pre-treatment preparation and aftercare. This consultation ensures that you feel informed and confident before embarking on your IPL journey.

A modern spa room with grayish-purple walls, a neon pink "Love is in the Laser" sign, and a white treatment chair. A laser machine is beside it, with a digital screen. The floor is light lavender, and sheer curtains cover the windows, creating a clean, inviting atmosphere. - New Lasers in Washington, DC and New York, NY

What to Expect on the Day of IPL Treatment

You’ll begin by checking in at S+P Med Spa in Washington, D.C., where the clinicians will ensure you’re comfortable and prepared. Your skin will be cleansed, and a cooling gel may be applied to protect the area being treated. During the procedure, the clinician will use the IPL device to emit precise pulses of light, targeting pigmentation, redness, or other skin concerns, with minimal discomfort. After the treatment, you’ll receive personalized post-care instructions to support healing, and you can expect some mild redness, which usually subsides within a few hours. With no significant downtime required, patients often return to their daily routines immediately following the appointment.

IPL Recovery

IPL recovery is typically straightforward, with most patients experiencing mild redness and swelling that subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Over the next few days, treated pigmentation may darken before flaking off, revealing clearer skin. Discomfort during recovery is minimal, often described as a mild sunburn sensation, and can be managed with gentle skincare and hydration. To improve recovery, patients should avoid sun exposure, wear sunscreen daily, and refrain from using harsh skincare products, such as retinoids or exfoliants.

How Much Does IPL Cost in Washington, D.C.?

The cost of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment in Washington, D.C. can vary based on several factors, including the provider’s expertise, the number of required sessions, and the specific areas being treated. At S+P Med Spa, patients benefit from advanced technology and personalized care, ensuring exceptional results tailored to their unique skin concerns. The practice’s prestigious location in Washington, D.C., offers a luxurious experience, reflecting the high-quality service provided. For an accurate estimate, scheduling a consultation with the skilled clinicians at S+P Med Spa is the best way to determine your personalized treatment plan.

Why Choose S+P Med Spa?

S+P Med Spa stands apart as the only med spa in Washington, D.C., guided by the expertise of board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Michael Somenek and Dr. Troy Pittman. This prestigious practice combines advanced techniques with a commitment to personalized care, providing a luxurious and supportive experience tailored to each patient. Known for their dedication to excellence, both doctors have earned numerous accolades and are celebrated for their artistry and ability to achieve natural, confidence-enhancing results. At S+P Med Spa, patients receive world-class care in an environment that prioritizes their needs and overall well-being.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) FAQ’S

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is generally not considered painful, though some patients describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Discomfort during the procedure is typically mild and can be minimized with the use of cooling gels or numbing creams. After treatment, the skin may feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn, but this sensation usually subsides within a few hours. At Somenek + Pittman MD in Washington, D.C., our clinicians prioritize patient comfort to ensure a smooth and manageable experience.
Most patients typically require 3 to 6 IPL sessions, spaced approximately 4 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. The exact number of appointments depends on the specific skin concerns being treated and individual goals. While IPL can significantly improve skin tone, texture, and pigmentation, the results are not entirely permanent, as factors like sun exposure and aging can cause new concerns to develop over time. To maintain results, occasional touch-up sessions and a good skincare routine, including sun protection, are recommended.
With Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), you may notice an improvement in skin tone and texture within a few days after your first session. However, optimal results typically emerge gradually over the course of 3 to 6 treatments as the skin continues to heal and regenerate. Dark spots or pigmentation often appear darker initially before fading, and repeated sessions may help diminish redness or vascular concerns.
Yes, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) can be effectively combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance results and address multiple skin concerns simultaneously. For example, pairing IPL with treatments such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion can enhance skin texture and tone by targeting different layers of the skin. Additionally, combining IPL with Botox or dermal fillers offers a comprehensive approach to anti-aging, addressing both skin quality and volume loss. At Somenek + Pittman MD in Washington, D.C., our clinicians can create a customized treatment plan to ensure the best outcomes tailored to your unique needs.
IPL is a treatment that makes your skin visibly illuminated with no downtime. This anti-aging treatment helps to stimulate collagen, remove superficial sun damage and redness, and visibly even out the skin tone.

IPF photofacials are generally safe to have. However, there are potential risks and complications that you should consider.

These risks and complications include the following:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain and discomfort
- Skin sensitivity
- Skin irritation
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Blistering
- Skin crusting
- Potentially reactivating cold sores

5.0

Patient Reviews

Thank you for the fantastic experience.

I recently had a facial procedure at Somemek and Pittman Clinic, and I’m extremely happy with the results! The staff was very professional and supportive, guiding me through every step and ensuring I felt comfortable. The recovery was smooth, and I love how I look now. I highly recommend Dr. Pittman for anyone considering facial procedures. Thank you for the fantastic experience.

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Aubrey L.
I had spent years searching for the right doctor, and choosing Dr. Somenek was truly the best decision I could have made

Dr. Somenek is truly exceptional. From the very first consultation to the final results, the entire experience exceeded every expectation I had. His attention to detail, artistic eye, and deep understanding of facial harmony are unmatched.

Beyond the amazing results, the level of care and attention from both Dr. Somenek and his entire team was outstanding. He personally called me to check in after my procedure, and the team followed up as well to make sure I felt supported every step of the way. I felt completely cared for, and genuinely listened to throughout the entire process.

I had spent years searching for the right doctor, and choosing Dr. Somenek was truly the best decision I could have made. If you are looking for someone who is not only highly skilled but also a perfectionist who truly cares about his patients, I cannot recommend him enough.

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L.S., Google
I had high expectations and they were exceeded at every turn.

Dr. Pittman and his team are the best there is. He presented options to me I hadn’t even considered! After my initial consult I had more questions and they got me in swiftly and answered them all. The office, surgical suite and staff are 11/10. I felt safe and cared for. Dr Pittman even called me himself the next day to check in! On top of all of that, I couldn’t be happier with my results. I would recommend him to anyone. I had high expectations and they were exceeded at every turn.

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Aubrey L.

Discover The Difference

Booking a consultation at S + P Med Spa is as simple as dialing (202) 568-8414 to speak with our dedicated team. Discover our comprehensive range of personalized services, expertly designed to enhance your natural beauty, at 2440 M Street NW, Suite 507, Washington, DC 20037. Our professionals are ready to guide you on your aesthetic journey in a comfortable, upscale environment. Schedule your appointment today and experience the exceptional care we’re known for!

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