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Photofacials are a form of skin treatment which is reliant on the usage of light-based technology to improve the condition of skin. They are used to improve a variety of conditions ranging from brown spots, to acne, to even fostering the production of collagen.

However, keep in mind that there are numerous types of light based treatments which all fall under the umbrella term of photofacial. Therefore, if you are seeking such treatments to tackle a particular skin ailment, take time to understand all the treatment options, along with the costs involved, to make an informed decision to pursue treatment.

There are two main types of photofacial treatment: Light Emitting Diode (LED) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). As the former is mainly used to boost collagen (resulting in younger looking skin, and often, plumper lips) and kill acne-related bacteria, the latter is more often associated with reduction of unsightly skin conditions such as redness related to rosacea, spider veins and brown spots.

LED treatments are characterized by a cooling sensation and do not carry the same risk of burns that is often linked to IPL treatments. They use a gentle narrow light spectrum to achieve the desired results, while IPL is often thought of as the harsher of the two treatments because it is associated with a intense, bright blast of light delivered through a handheld device. Although IPL is often described as painful by patients who have chosen this type of treatment, many would argue that it’s well worth the desired results.

Depending on where you live and the availability of photofacials in your area, the price can be quite steep, often upwards of $500 per treatment or more. However, check with day spas, as they may provide photofacials at a price that is a bit less than what a dermatologist’s office might charge.

Investigate to see if any applicable health insurance plans that you possess may cover at least the partial cost of a photofacial treatment, especially if you are seeking it for help with coping with a lifelong cosmetic ailment.

Before beginning any photofacial treatment, take time to become aware of all options and possible side effects.

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15y ago

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