IPL and Anti-Aging: What do clinical studies say about its real effectiveness?

In a beauty market where innovation meets growing expectations for visible results without a scalpel, intense pulsed light (IPL) is emerging as a must-have technology for at-home anti-aging treatment. But beyond the marketing promises, what do scientific studies say about its real effectiveness against wrinkles, skin texture, and pigmentation? Here's a closer look.

Intense pulsed light: how does it work?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) emits broad-spectrum light flashes (typically 530 to 750 nm), absorbed by different skin targets (melanin, hemoglobin, water). This thermal process stimulates collagen production, reduces pigment irregularities, and improves skin texture.

A little technique!

What clinical studies reveal about pulsed light

🔬 Study Hedelund et al. (2006) – Arch Dermatol
Population: 32 women (average age 47), phototypes I–III

Protocol : 3 IPL sessions (530–750 nm, 7.5–8.5 J/cm², 2.5 ms pulses) spaced 4 weeks apart, split-face (half treated, half control)

Results :
Significant improvement in skin texture (p < 0.006)
Reduction of telangiectasias (p < 0.001)
Attenuation of pigment spots (p < 0.03)
Effects on wrinkles: inconclusive on mild rhytides

Study Bjerring et al. (2004) – Lasers Surg Med
Population: 11 patients, phototypes II–III

Protocol : 4 sessions every two weeks (same wavelengths and fluence)

Results :
81% improvement in redness and visible vessels
54% reduction in hyperpigmentation
Wrinkles: more visible results in combination with other treatments (radiofrequency, peeling, etc.)

Which technical parameters are most effective?

The studies agree on similar protocols:

• Wavelength: 530–750 nm
• Fluence: 7.5 to 9 J/cm² depending on phototype
• Pulse duration: 2–3 ms
• Number of passes: 1 to 2 per zone
• Sessions: 3 to 4, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart

A good IPL device will also include a skin cooling system and interchangeable filters suitable for each indication.

Pulsed light: real effectiveness: wrinkles, spots, texture... what to expect?

✅ Skin texture: clear gain in softness and homogeneity visible after 3 sessions
✅ Telangiectasias and redness: proven effective in more than 80% of cases
✅ Pigmentation: brown spots reduced in 55 to 85% of cases
❌ Deep wrinkles: limited results alone, but interesting in combined treatment

“IPL clearly improves the overall appearance of the skin, but it is not a miracle solution for deep wrinkles. It is an excellent complement or gentle alternative to more invasive methods.”
Dr. L. Hedelund, dermatologist

Wrinkles, spots, texture: what can we really expect from IPL?

LumiCare: Who is it useful for?

IPL is ideal if:

• You are over 35 years old
• You want to prevent or reduce the first signs of aging
• Are you looking for a non-invasive method to do at home?
• You have light to medium skin (phototype I to III)

On the other hand, its use without supervision should be avoided if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are taking photosensitizing treatments
• You have a history of melanoma

Conclusion: IPL, promise kept?

Backed by rigorous research, IPL isn't just a passing fad: it's an effective technology, particularly for texture and dark spots. For a visible effect on wrinkles, you'll need a regular, personalized approach, or even one combined with other treatments.

Want to go further? Discover our CE-certified LumiCare device, directly inspired by these clinical protocols, for visible results in just 4 weeks.