Limelight IPL works by emitting intense pulses of light that penetrate the skin and target melanin (pigmentation) and haemoglobin (red blood cells in blood vessels). This process helps to break down pigmentation and reduce redness, leading to a more even skin tone and improved complexion. The light energy is absorbed by the pigmented areas and blood vessels, which then heat up and are gradually absorbed by the body’s natural healing processes. This treatment is precise and can be customised to address specific skin concerns, ensuring optimal results. Additionally, Limelight IPL stimulates collagen production, further enhancing skin texture and reducing fine lines. The overall effect is a clearer, more youthful and radiant appearance.

Limelight IPL is ideal for any part of your face, neck, hands and décolleté with redness, telangiectasia (tiny thread veins), or brown pigmentation spots.

When the pulse of light is delivered, you may experience a mild pinching or stinging sesation. Most clients describe is as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin for a second, which is generally tolerable. You will also see a brief flash of light with each pulse, but rest assured, protective goggles are worn throughout the procedure to safeguard your eyes.. To enhance comfort, a cooling gel is applied to the treatment area before the procedure. The sensations pass quickly after each pulse. Generally, local anaesthetic or pain medication is not needed, and any discomfort experienced during the procedure is minimal and brief. Post-treatment, you might feel a slight warmth or tingling in the treated areas, but this typically resolves within a few hours. 

Results can typically be seen within 1-3 weeks after the initial treatment, with continued improvement over the following weeks as the skin naturally heals and rejuvenates. It’s important to note that pigmented areas may initially become darker before the begin to fade and resolve. This darkening is a normal part of the process as the pigmented cells are brought to the surface and eventually shed (within 1-3 weeks), revealing clearer, more even-toned skin underneath.

A series of 3-5 treatments is usually recommended for optimal results, spaced about 3-4 weeks apart.

Results can last for several months to a year, especially with regular maintenance treatments and proper skincare.

Limelight IPL is suitable for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick 1-4). A consultation and patch test is necessary to determine if this treatment is right for you.

It’s best to plan your Limelight IPL treatment at least 3-4 weeks before your big event to allow your skin tone to become more even and look it’s best. A course of 3-5 treatments is usually recommended for best results.

There may be some redness and warmth immediately after the treatment, but this usually subsides within a couple of days after treatment. Any pigmentation may initially appear darker and may develop a crust on the surface of the skin similar to the appearance of coffee grounds, and this flakes away naturally within 1-3 weeks of treatment.

• Avoid heat (saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and extremely hot showers/baths) for 48 hours after your treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum sunscreen for at least 2 weeks after your treatment
• Treated pigment will turn darker within 24-48 hours and will flake away naturally within 1-3 weeks. It is important to not pick or scrub away at any treated areas as this may cause undesirable effects.
• Avoid skin irritants (retinols, exfoliants, acids, astringents) for 1 week after your treatment
• Avoid hair removal for 2 weeks.
• Follow any additional recommendations given by your SkinHD practitioner.

Yes, Limelight IPL can be used at the same time as Laser Genesis for a 2D Facial for a comprehensive rejuvenation of the skin. Other treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling and injectables may require a couple of weeks wait before or after your Limelight treatment. Discuss your aesthetic goals with your practitioner to determine your personalised treatment plan.

Side effects are rare, but may include redness, swelling and darkening of treated spots, which typically resolve within a few days.

• Avoid sun exposure and self-tanning lotions for 4 weeks prior to your treatment.
• Some medications or supplements increase photosensitivity and/or the risk of bruising. It is important to disclose all medications and supplements to your SkinHD practitioner during your consultation, and notify of any changes.
• Avoid treatments and skincare products that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (including waxing/threading, retinols, exfoliants and acids)
• A patch test and consultation is required at least 48 hours before treatment 
• History of herpes or cold sores may require a prophylactic anti-viral prescription prior to treatment.