What is IPL Therapy (Intense Pulsed Light)?
FDA-cleared, non-invasive platform for treating multiple skin indications.
At Alluna Medical, we offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy using the Stellar M22™ system by Lumenis, an established IPL platform with multiple regulatory clearances for specific dermatologic indications. Treatment settings and expectations are discussed with each patient before any procedure.
What is Stellar M22™ IPL?
The Stellar M22™ by Lumenis is a versatile IPL (intense pulsed light) device used in dermatology to address selected vascular and pigment-related skin concerns, and for hair reduction, in appropriately assessed patients. It uses pulses of broad-spectrum light, together with selectable filters and integrated cooling, to allow the doctor to target specific structures within the skin.
Treatment parameters are adjusted according to skin type, indication, and treatment area. Particular care is taken when treating darker or Asian skin types to help reduce the risk of pigmentary change.
What does Stellar M22™ IPL treat?
IPL can be used, in suitable candidates and with appropriate settings, for a range of dermatological indications commonly managed with this technology, such as:
Vascular concerns – for example, certain telangiectasias (spider veins), some facial vascular lesions, and background redness in selected cases.
Benign pigmented lesions – such as lentigines (age spots), ephelides (freckles), and other forms of benign hyperpigmentation, where appropriate.
Rosacea-related redness – in selected patients, IPL may help reduce the appearance of facial redness and visible superficial vessels.
Mild to moderate inflammatory acne – certain protocols aim to reduce C. acnes activity and improve overall skin appearance.
Photoaging-related changes – including mottled pigmentation and uneven texture, with modest improvements in overall skin tone in some patients.
Hair reduction – long-term reduction of unwanted facial and body hair in suitable skin and hair types.
The specific indications treated and expected degree of improvement depend on your diagnosis, skin type, and treatment plan. Your doctor will explain which concerns may reasonably respond to IPL and what alternative options exist.
Why Stellar M22™ IPL?
Stellar M22™ IPL may be considered because it:
Offers multiple filter and parameter options that can be adjusted for different vascular and pigment concerns.
Can address more than one concern (for example, redness and sun spots) in a staged treatment plan where appropriate.
Is non-surgical and usually associated with short downtime in most patients.
Allows the doctor to individualise treatment settings according to skin type, concern, and tolerance.
Individual responses vary, and not all conditions are suitable for or respond to IPL; this will be evaluated during consultation.
Your Visit at Alluna Medical
Doctor consultation and skin assessment – your doctor will assess your skin, review your medical history, and confirm whether IPL is appropriate for your specific concerns.
Treatment planning – suitable filters, energy levels, and pulse parameters are selected for your skin type and indications.
Doctor-performed treatment – at Alluna Medical, IPL sessions with Stellar M22™ are performed by a medical doctor.
Aftercare guidance – you will receive instructions on hydration, sun protection, and skincare to support recovery and reduce risks such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Aftercare & Recovery
Mild redness, warmth, or transient darkening (“peppering”) of pigmented spots can occur after IPL and usually settles over several days as the skin renews. In some cases, vascular areas may appear temporarily more prominent before improving.
Sun protection and gentle skincare are important:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly on treated areas as advised.
Avoid picking or scratching at any darkened spots or micro-crusting.
Follow the specific cleansing and moisturising instructions provided by your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skin concerns can IPL address?
Depending on your skin type and diagnosis, IPL with Stellar M22™ may be used to target certain vascular lesions, background redness, selected benign pigmented lesions, mild photoaging-related changes, and in some protocols, inflammatory acne. Your doctor will advise which of your concerns are appropriate for IPL.
How many sessions will I need?
Many patients require a series of sessions, often spaced several weeks apart, to see a noticeable change. The number of sessions depends on the indication being treated, skin response, and treatment goals.
Is IPL painful?
Patients often describe the sensation as a brief, sharp “snap” or warmth on the skin. Integrated cooling and parameter adjustment are used to help keep treatment tolerable, but experiences differ between individuals.
When will I see changes?
Some improvement in pigmentation or redness may be visible after the first few sessions, with progressive changes after subsequent treatments. The degree and timing of improvement vary between patients.
Can IPL be used for rosacea and acne?
IPL can be considered in selected cases of rosacea-related redness or mild to moderate inflammatory acne as part of a broader management plan. Suitability depends on your skin type, clinical presentation, and any co-existing conditions.
Is there downtime?
Most patients experience short downtime, typically involving temporary redness, mild swelling, or darkening of pigmented areas that fade over days. Your doctor will discuss what to expect and any activities to avoid immediately after treatment.
Is Stellar M22™ IPL right for you?
Stellar M22™ IPL may be an option for patients with concerns such as facial redness, certain vascular or pigmented lesions, features of photoaging, or unwanted hair who are suitable candidates based on skin type and medical assessment. It may also be considered as part of a broader plan for selected patients with inflammatory acne.
During your consultation, our doctor will evaluate your skin, discuss potential benefits and limitations of IPL, and advise whether this, or another treatment approach, is most appropriate for your needs.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Please consult your provider for an accurate assessment and tailored recommendations.
