IPL Laser in NYC

Brighten, Clarify, and Rejuvenate

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that targets discoloration, sun damage, and redness to reveal clearer, more even-toned skin. Often referred to as a “photofacial,” IPL uses powerful pulses of light to correct pigmentation and boost collagen with minimal downtime.

At our Manhattan office, Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in NYC, personally performs every IPL treatment. His advanced aesthetic eye ensures the results are both effective and natural-looking. If you're looking for expert IPL in NYC, Dr. Schwarcz delivers results that restore radiance and skin confidence.

What Is IPL Laser Treatment?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, a broadband light therapy that penetrates the skin to target pigment irregularities and vascular lesions. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength, IPL uses multiple wavelengths of light to treat a wider range of skin issues, including:

• Brown spots and sun damage

• Redness and rosacea

• Broken capillaries and visible veins

• Uneven skin tone and texture

• Fine lines and large pores

IPL works by delivering light into the skin, where it's absorbed by pigment or blood vessels. The light energy heats the targeted area, breaking down pigment and stimulating collagen production over time.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

You may be an excellent candidate for IPL laser in NYC if:

• You have pigmentation issues such as sun spots, freckles, or melasma

• You struggle with redness, rosacea, or visible veins

• You want to improve overall skin tone and radiance

• You are in good health and have light to medium skin tones

• You’re looking for results without surgery or significant downtime

IPL is particularly effective for treating sun-damaged skin on the face, neck, chest, and hands.

When IPL May Not Be Right for You

IPL may not be suitable if:

• You have a very dark skin tone, as there's a risk of hyperpigmentation

• You have an active sunburn, infection, or breakout

• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding

• You’ve recently used photosensitizing medications or tanning beds

• You have unrealistic expectations about complete skin transformation in one session

Dr. Schwarcz will perform a full skin evaluation before treatment to ensure IPL is safe and effective for your unique skin type and goals.

How to Prepare

To prepare for your IPL session:

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 2–4 weeks prior

• Discontinue retinoids, acids, and exfoliants 5–7 days before

• Let us know about any recent peels, medications, or skin treatments

• Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin

Dr. Schwarcz will provide specific pre-treatment guidance to protect your skin and ensure best results.

What to Expect During Treatment

IPL is performed in-office and takes 30–45 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area.

Here’s what happens:

• Before: Your skin will be cleansed, and protective eyewear will be applied.

• During: The IPL device emits pulses of light across the skin. You may feel a mild snapping or warming sensation.

• After: The skin may appear red and slightly swollen—similar to a sunburn—for a few hours.

There’s little to no downtime, and most patients return to daily activities the same day.

Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from IPL is easy, but proper aftercare enhances results:

• 1–2 Days: Redness and slight swelling subside. Treated spots may darken (a good sign!) before flaking off.

• 1 Week: Skin tone appears more even, and texture improves.

• 1 Month: Collagen stimulation continues, and results gradually improve.

• Maintenance: Wear daily SPF 30+, avoid hot environments for 48 hours, and follow a gentle skincare routine.

A series of 3–5 treatments, spaced 3–4 weeks apart, is typically recommended for optimal results.

Results

IPL delivers brighter, more even-toned skin with each session. Patients often notice:

• Faded sun spots and pigmentation

• Reduced redness and broken capillaries

• Smoother skin with minimized pores

• Increased glow and overall skin clarity

Results improve over time as collagen production increases and damaged pigment lifts away. With ongoing maintenance and proper sun protection, the results can last for months or longer.

Complementary Treatments

Enhance your results by pairing IPL with:

• Clear + Brilliant – For deeper brightening and smoother texture

• Chemical Peels – To exfoliate and refresh the skin surface

• Morpheus8 – For collagen stimulation and skin tightening

These treatments can be alternated with IPL or scheduled after your series for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

Alternative Treatments

For those seeking other options, consider:

• BBL Laser – A more advanced form of light therapy for pigmentation and redness

• CO2 Laser – For deeper resurfacing and correction of fine lines and scars

Dr. Schwarcz will recommend the most effective option based on your skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

Why Choose Dr. Schwarcz?

With over two decades of experience in facial aesthetics and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Robert Schwarcz brings a level of precision, artistry, and clinical expertise unmatched in NYC. Every IPL treatment is performed by Dr. Schwarcz himself, ensuring your skin is in expert hands from start to finish.

Whether you're targeting sun damage, discoloration, or simply want to restore your skin’s glow, Dr. Schwarcz tailors every session to meet your individual needs.

Ready to restore your glow? Click the Request an Appointment button below and book your consultation for IPL Laser with Dr. Schwarcz today.