Advanced Skin Treatments · Rivage Day Spa

IPL Skin Rejuvenation

Photo Facial · Intense Pulsed Light

A non-invasive light-based treatment that targets sun damage, brown spots, broken capillaries, and redness — revealing clearer, more even-toned skin with no downtime.

IPL photo facial for sun spots and rosacea Birmingham MI
The Science

How IPL Skin Rejuvenation Works

IPL — Intense Pulsed Light — uses broad-spectrum light pulses to target pigment and vascular irregularities in the skin. At Rivage, we use the Lumenis Stellar M22, the gold-standard IPL platform invented by the pioneers of the technology.

01

Broad-Spectrum Light

Unlike a laser, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths of light simultaneously. These wavelengths are selectively absorbed by melanin (pigment) and oxyhemoglobin (blood vessels), leaving surrounding tissue untouched.

02

Targeted Heat Energy

The absorbed light converts to heat, which breaks down unwanted pigment cells and collapses damaged blood vessels. The body then naturally eliminates these as waste in the days following treatment.

03

Collagen Stimulation

The controlled heat also triggers the skin's healing response, stimulating new collagen and elastin production — improving overall skin texture, firmness, and radiance over time.

04

Optimal Pulse Technology

Lumenis OPT™ precisely controls the shape and energy of each pulse, ensuring consistent, safe results across all treated areas — with more comfort than older IPL systems.

Treatment Details
What to expect at Rivage
Session Length30–60 min
Recommended Series3–6 treatments
Treatment Spacing4–6 weeks apart
DowntimeNone to minimal
SensationWarm snap, tolerable
TechnologyLumenis Stellar M22
PricingPer consultation

"Skin looks brighter and more even after just one session — spots darken briefly then fade away."

Proven · Precise · Non-Invasive
Real Results

Before & After

See the visible improvements IPL delivers — faded spots, reduced redness, and clearer, more even skin with no surgery or downtime.

Before IPL photo facial sun spots treatment
Before
After IPL photo facial sun spots treatment
After
Sun Spots & Pigmentation

Visible fading of sun spots and uneven pigmentation after a series of IPL treatments, with no downtime.

Before IPL rosacea and redness treatment
Before
After IPL rosacea and redness treatment
After
Rosacea & Redness

Significant reduction in facial redness and visible capillaries following targeted IPL photorejuvenation.

Before IPL overall skin rejuvenation
Before
After IPL overall skin rejuvenation
After
Overall Skin Tone

Brighter, more even complexion and improved skin texture after completing a full IPL series at Rivage.

Individual results may vary. A series of treatments is recommended for optimal results.

Why IPL at Rivage

Clearer Skin.
No Downtime Required.

FDA-cleared and clinically proven in over 80 peer-reviewed studies — IPL with Lumenis OPT™ technology delivers remarkable results on pigmentation, redness, and skin tone without surgery or recovery time.

What We Treat

Conditions & Areas

IPL photo facial can be customized to address a wide range of skin concerns across the face and body. Your provider will tailor each session to your specific goals.

Pigmentation Concerns
Sun spots
Age spots
Freckles
Melasma (mild)
Uneven skin tone
Post-acne discoloration
Vascular & Redness
Rosacea
Broken capillaries
Facial redness
Spider veins (face)
Treatment Areas
Full face
Neck & décolleté
Hands & forearms
Chest & back
Ideal Candidates

Is IPL Right for You?

You have sun spots, age spots, or freckles you'd like to fade and aren't ready for more aggressive treatments.

You experience rosacea, facial redness, or visible broken capillaries that affect your confidence.

You want overall skin rejuvenation — brighter tone, smaller pores, and improved texture — without surgery.

You have a lighter to medium skin tone (Fitzpatrick I–IV). Your provider will assess candidacy at your consultation.

You want to complement other Rivage services — IPL pairs beautifully with HydraFacial, NuERA Tight, and GLO₂ Facials.

FAQ

Common Questions

How many IPL treatments will I need?

Most clients see their best results with a series of 3–5 treatments, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the severity of your concerns — pigmentation, redness, and overall rejuvenation goals. Your Rivage provider will recommend a personalized plan at your consultation.

Does IPL hurt?

+

Most clients describe IPL as a warm, snapping sensation — similar to a rubber band flick — with each pulse of light. The Lumenis Stellar M22 uses Optimal Pulse Technology and integrated cooling to keep the treatment as comfortable as possible. Sensitivity varies by area and skin concern.

Why do my spots look darker after treatment?

+

This is completely normal and actually a sign the treatment is working. Treated pigmentation absorbs the light energy and temporarily darkens before naturally shedding from the skin's surface over 7–14 days. Do not pick or scrub — let the process happen naturally for best results.

Is there any downtime after IPL?

+

There is minimal to no downtime. Most clients return to normal activities immediately. You may experience some temporary redness or mild swelling that resolves within a few hours. Temporary darkening of treated spots is expected and is not considered downtime — it resolves on its own within one to two weeks.

How long do IPL results last?

+

Results from a full IPL series can last a year or more with proper sun protection. Because sun exposure is the primary cause of the concerns IPL treats, daily SPF is essential to maintain your results. Annual or semi-annual maintenance sessions help preserve and build on your improvements over time.

Can IPL be combined with other treatments?

+

Yes — IPL pairs beautifully with many services at Rivage. It's commonly combined with HydraFacial for deeper cleansing and hydration, NuERA Tight for added skin firming, and GLO₂ Facials for overall skin health. Your provider can help design a comprehensive plan targeting multiple concerns.

Am I a good candidate for IPL?

+

IPL works best for lighter to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I–IV). It is not recommended for very dark skin tones, active tans, or those who are pregnant. It's also not suitable during active breakouts, infections, or if you've recently used certain medications like Accutane. A consultation at Rivage will confirm your candidacy.

How much does IPL cost at Rivage Day Spa?

+

IPL pricing at Rivage varies based on the treatment area, number of sessions, and your individual plan. We offer single sessions as well as series packages. Schedule a consultation and we'll provide a personalized quote and discuss available options.

Before Your Appointment

Preparing for Your Upcoming IPL Treatment

To ensure the safest treatment and best possible results from your IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) service, please review the following preparation guidelines, contraindications, and post-care instructions prior to your appointment at Rivage Day Spa.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines
  • Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.

  • Discontinue retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin, and strong exfoliants 5–7 days prior to treatment.

  • Avoid chemical peels, waxing, threading, or depilatory creams in the treatment area for 5–7 days prior.

  • Skin must be clean and free of lotions, makeup, perfumes, and deodorant on the treatment area.

  • If you develop illness, fever, infection, or open skin in the treatment area, please call to reschedule.

Injectable Timing
Complete before your IPL
14Days
BotoxMust be completed at least 14 days prior to your IPL treatment.
30Days
Dermal FillersMust be completed at least 30 days prior to your IPL treatment.
Please Review

Health Considerations & Contraindications

Active infection, rash, or open wounds in the treatment area
Active cold sores or herpes outbreak
Recent sunburn or excessive sun exposure
Use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months
Photosensitizing medications
Active cancer or undergoing current cancer treatments
Pregnancy or breastfeeding (consult provider)
History of abnormal skin healing or severe scarring

If any of the above conditions apply, please contact Rivage Day Spa prior to your appointment so we can determine if your treatment should be postponed.

Post-Treatment Care
  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks following treatment.

  • Wear SPF 30 or higher daily and reapply as needed when outdoors.

  • Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.

  • Avoid heat sources such as saunas, hot tubs, and intense exercise for 24–48 hours.

  • Do not pick or scratch treated areas as the skin heals.

  • Mild redness or temporary darkening of pigmented spots may occur and is a normal part of the treatment process.

Ready for Clearer,
More Radiant Skin?

Schedule your IPL consultation at Rivage. Our licensed skin care professionals will build a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin and goals.

Scroll to Top