IPL, LED, and Infrared Light

Okay, so here’s the plot twist: not everything that zaps your skin is a laser — but that doesn’t mean it’s not legit.

And can I just say? One of my biggest pet peeves is when people call IPL a laser. It’s not. It’s like calling a toaster an oven — same household, very different job. If someone says, “We’re doing a laser,” and then whips out an IPL? Ask questions.

Let’s talk about the not-quite-lasers that still deliver serious skin benefits...

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) or BBL (Broadband Light)

• What it is: A broadband light treatment — think of it like a scattered light cannon instead of a laser sniper.
• What it treats: Brown spots, redness, broken capillaries, sun damage
• Feels like: A quick, bright snap of heat — like a rubber band with a flash
• Best for: Types I–III, or anyone with lots of sun spots or redness
• Avoid if: You have melasma or medium-to-deep skin tones — it can trigger rebound pigment

Think of IPL as your multi-tasking photo filter — great for evening out tone if you’re the right candidate.

LED Light Therapy

• What it is: Low-level light therapy that uses visible wavelengths (blue, red, near-infrared) to heal, soothe, and stimulate skin.
• What it treats: Acne, inflammation, aging, healing post-procedure
• Feels like: A warm nap under glow lights — zero pain, zero downtime
• Best for: Everyone. Seriously. It’s a no-downtime, no-risk glow-booster

Red = collagen + anti-inflammatory

Blue = acne-fighting

Infrared = healing, circulation, deeper tissue support

LED is the ultimate “do no harm” skin supplement — and a great add-on to almost any treatment plan.

Infrared Therapy (a.k.a. Deep Heat Magic)

• What it is: Non-visible light that penetrates deeply into skin layers to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, and support healing
• What it treats: Pain, inflammation, tissue recovery, sometimes used in skin tightening
• Feels like: Gentle warmth — think sauna but localized
• Best for: Post-laser healing, chronic inflammation, pre-treatment stimulation

Infrared isn't always the star of the show, but it's a strong supporting actor — especially for recovery and long-term collagen goals.

Why This Matters

Even though IPL and LED aren’t technically lasers, they’re science-backed, effective, and often work best in combination with laser treatments. Think of them as the supporting characters that make your main character (aka your skin) shine brighter.