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M22 IPL St. Louis
M22 Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive, light-based treatment that can improve skin tone, redness, and sun-related discoloration. It delivers controlled pulses of broad-spectrum light to target brown spots and visible vessels beneath the surface, helping even out color over a series of sessions. At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in Troy, MO, IPL is performed under the direction of a double board-certified dermatologist.
Double board-certified
Dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery
Fellowship-trained
Advanced cosmetic and reconstructive training
Physician-owned
Independent practice, never corporate
Troy & Chesterfield
Second location now open
What Is M22 IPL?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a broad-spectrum light treatment, not a single-wavelength laser. The M22 system delivers controlled pulses of light at multiple wavelengths, allowing it to target pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. Because it can be adjusted in several ways, it’s a versatile option for a range of color-related skin concerns.
It’s one of several light and laser options we offer. For fine lines and texture, a resurfacing treatment such as ResurFx or laser resurfacing may be more appropriate, and we’ll help you match the right tool to your skin at your consultation.
How M22 IPL Works
IPL delivers light energy that is selectively absorbed by specific targets in the skin, primarily melanin (brown pigment) and hemoglobin (the red pigment in blood vessels). As that light is absorbed, it converts to heat, which can break down excess pigment and reduce the appearance of unwanted vessels, allowing the body to clear the treated areas gradually over the following days and weeks.
What M22 IPL Can Treat
Pigmentation concerns
- Sun spots and age spots
- Freckles
- Uneven skin tone
- Sun-related discoloration
Redness & vascular concerns
- Facial redness and flushing
- Broken capillaries
- Rosacea-related redness, when appropriate
For persistent rosacea, IPL is one part of a broader plan; our rosacea page covers how it’s managed. Whether IPL is suitable for your redness is determined at your consultation.
Your IPL Visit
1
Before
We review your skin and history, customize the settings to your skin, and provide eye protection. Cooling is used for comfort throughout.
2
During
Light pulses are delivered to the treatment area. The sensation is often described as a quick snap or warm pulse, and treatment usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on the area.
3
After
Mild redness or warmth is common, and brown spots may temporarily darken before flaking off. Downtime is minimal for most patients, and makeup can often be worn the next day.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for IPL if you have sun damage or uneven pigmentation, experience persistent facial redness, want to improve overall skin tone, prefer non-surgical treatments, can avoid sun exposure before and after treatment, and are in generally good health.
IPL is typically most effective for lighter skin tones, as higher melanin levels can increase the risk of unwanted pigment changes. A consultation is essential to determine whether it’s safe and suitable for your skin.
M22 IPL Before and After Photos
Every photo is from one of Dr. Beal’s patients. Results vary.
IPL vs. Laser Treatments
IPL and lasers are related but not the same. IPL uses broad-spectrum light that’s highly adjustable and well suited to color concerns, pigment and vessels, across a treatment area. A traditional laser uses a single wavelength aimed at a more specific target, and certain lasers are better for texture and resurfacing. Neither is better across the board; the right choice depends on your skin and your goals.
| Feature | IPL (M22) | Traditional Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Light type | Broad-spectrum | Single wavelength |
| Targets | Pigment & vessels | A specific concern |
| Flexibility | Highly adjustable | More targeted |
| Texture improvement | Limited | Varies by laser |
Schedule an IPL Consultation in Troy, MO
If you’re noticing sun damage, persistent redness, or uneven skin tone, M22 IPL may be an option worth exploring. We welcome patients from across the region, including O’Fallon and St. Charles, at our Troy office, and our second location in Chesterfield. Call (314) 834-1400 or request a consultation online.
Common questions
M22 IPL FAQs.
How many IPL treatments will I need?
IPL is typically done as a series, since pigment and redness usually respond gradually. The number depends on your skin and the concern being treated, and is set together at your consultation. Maintenance sessions help hold results over time.
Does IPL hurt, and is there downtime?
Most patients describe the pulses as a quick snap or warm sensation, and cooling is used for comfort. Downtime is minimal: mild redness or warmth is common, brown spots may darken briefly before flaking off, and makeup can often be worn the next day.
Is IPL safe for all skin tones?
IPL is typically most effective and safest for lighter skin tones. Higher melanin levels can increase the risk of unwanted pigment changes, so a consultation is essential to assess your skin type and determine whether IPL or a different option is the safer choice for you.
What’s the difference between IPL and a laser?
IPL uses broad-spectrum light that’s highly adjustable and well suited to color concerns like brown spots and redness. A laser uses a single wavelength aimed at a more specific target, and some lasers are better for texture or resurfacing. We’ll recommend whichever fits your skin and goals.
Can IPL treat areas besides the face?
Yes. IPL is commonly used on the chest, neck, and hands, areas that often show sun damage and discoloration, in addition to the face. Your provider will discuss which areas are appropriate at your consultation.
Clearer, more even skin.
M22 IPL for sun damage, brown spots, and redness, under the direction of a double board-certified dermatologist. Troy, MO, and Chesterfield now open.