LimeLight®

This intense pulsed light-based treatment is a quick way, with no downtime, to treat both dark spots and mottling of the skin caused by sun damage and aging. As an added benefit, LimeLight addresses skin redness and small veins (telangiectasia). The process creates a refreshed, brighter look and youthful, more even color. Our technicians customize the treatment to suit your individual skin concerns and can target problem areas. Most patients seek treatment of the face, neck, décolletage, and hands.

What to Expect

The treatment is usually performed in about one hour with little to no irritation. Patients may experience a quick, mild pinching or stinging sensation at the treatment site, which is cooled by the laser hand piece. After treatment, a slight reddening, and very mild swelling may occur and persist for several hours. Brown spots may appear darker. Makeup can be applied to conceal the redness and brown spots if desired. Within one to three weeks, the darkened spots flake off as the skin undergoes its natural renewal process. Redness and tiny veins subside, and the overall complexion of the area is improved.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What are photofacials?

A: Photofacials, also referred to as IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments, are non-invasive medical treatments that use a light device to improve skin tone.

Q: How do photofacials work?

A: Photofacials utilize spectrums of light that are preferentially absorbed by brown and red structures in the skin. When the light is absorbed by these sun spots and broken capillaries, it disables them. Sun spots slough off in the normal exfoliation process and broken capillaries are gradually reabsorbed by the body.

Q: How many treatments will I need?

A: We generally recommend photofacials in a series of three to six treatments. We can give you a better idea of how many sessions will be necessary during a complimentary consultation.

Q: How long should I wait between treatments?

A: This will vary slightly depending on the objectives of the treatment. Waiting three to four weeks between photofacials is our standard recommendation. For optimal results generally 3-6 treatments are recommended.

Q: Is there down time?

A: Most patients exhibit redness for only a few hours after their photofacial treatments. More sensitive skin types can be red for 24 to 48 hours following treatment, however. Until we know how your skin will respond, we encourage you to schedule your appointment with this in mind.

Q: Do photofacials hurt?

A: Sensation varies among individuals. The treatment is similar to laser hair removal but is generally considered more tolerable. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snapping on the skin.

Q: Who shouldn’t have photofacials?

A: Those who have had sun exposure that has changed the color of their skin should wait two to three weeks before a photofacial. Clients will also need to be off of all antibiotics for a minimum of two weeks before their sessions. Photofacials are only appropriate treatments for fair and medium complexions.

Q: Is there anything I can do to help my treatments work better?

A: Photofacial treatments work best when paired with exfoliation procedures, such as microdermabrasion or peels and/or microneedling. This is particularly true when we are striving to diminish pigmentation and improve texture. When these procedures are done in conjunction with one another, they are performed at alternating appointments.