With the rapid development of medical cosmetic technology, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment has become the first choice for many beauty lovers. This article will analyze the key terms of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) in detail, and take you to learn more professional medical cosmetic knowledge.

1. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a non-invasive skin treatment technology that uses multi-wavelength light pulses to improve skin problems. The wavelength of light it emits is usually between 500 and 1200 nanometers, which can penetrate deep into different layers of the skin. IPL is commonly used to remove pigmentation, improve uneven skin tone, reduce wrinkles, and treat acne. During treatment, light energy is absorbed by pigments or blood vessels in the skin and converted into heat, thereby destroying unwanted tissues while stimulating the regeneration of collagen to improve skin firmness and smoothness. Compared with laser, IPL has a larger treatment range and lower side effects, suitable for all skin types. The main advantage of IPL is the breadth and diversity of its spectrum, making it suitable for treating a variety of skin conditions, such as spots, vasodilation, wrinkles, etc.

Schematic diagram of intense pulsed light spectrum

Schematic diagram of the generation of intense pulsed light

2. Wavelength Range

The wavelength range refers to the wavelength range of light emitted by intense pulsed light, usually covering 500 to 1200 nanometers. Light of different wavelengths has different penetration and therapeutic effects, and can target a variety of skin problems. For example, short-wavelength light (such as 500-600 nanometers) is mainly absorbed by the melanin in the surface skin and is suitable for treating spots and freckles; while long-wavelength light (such as 700-1200 nanometers) can penetrate deep into the dermis and target vascular lesions and collagen production. In photoelectric medical beauty, by selecting the appropriate wavelength, doctors can achieve precise treatment, maximize the efficacy and reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissues. In addition, the choice of wavelength will also affect the comfort of the treatment, so before treatment, the doctor will formulate a corresponding treatment plan based on the patient's skin quality and needs.

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Intense pulsed light of different wavelengths has different tissue penetration capabilities

3. Pulse Width and Pulse Frequency

Pulse Width is a key parameter in intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment, which determines the mode and effect of light pulses on target tissues. Pulse width refers to the duration of each light pulse, usually measured in milliseconds (ms); pulse frequency is the number of light pulses emitted per unit time. Higher frequencies can shorten treatment time, but energy and heat distribution need to be balanced to avoid skin damage.

In intense pulsed light therapy, the choice of pulse width can significantly affect the thermal effect of light, tissue damage and treatment effect. Shorter pulse width can reduce the impact of heat on surrounding tissues, thereby reducing side effects such as redness or burning. The pulse frequency determines the efficiency of the treatment. The appropriate frequency can effectively shorten the treatment time and improve the comfort of the patient. By precisely adjusting these two parameters, doctors can design personalized treatment plans for different skin problems to achieve the best results. For example, for deep vascular lesions, longer pulse widths and lower frequencies may be required to ensure that sufficient heat energy is transferred to the target tissue.

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Schematic diagram of pulse width of intense pulsed light

Schematic diagram of repetitive pulse train of intense pulsed light

4. Intensity

Light intensity is a key parameter in intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment, which directly affects the effect and safety of treatment. Light intensity is usually expressed in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²), which represents the energy carried by the light pulse per unit area. Appropriate light intensity can not only effectively achieve the purpose of treatment, but also minimize side effects. Too high intensity may cause skin burning, redness, swelling or other discomfort, while too low intensity may not achieve the expected treatment effect. Therefore, before treatment, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient's skin quality, treatment area and specific problems, and reasonably adjust the light intensity based on these factors. In some cases, the doctor may also adopt a staged approach to increase the intensity and gradually adapt to achieve the best cosmetic effect while ensuring safety. Through scientific and reasonable intensity settings, IPL treatment can find the best balance between safety and effect, helping patients achieve their ideal skin condition.

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5. Photo-thermal Effect

Photo-thermal effect is a crucial principle in intense pulsed light (IPL) technology. It refers to the process of converting light energy into heat energy to achieve the purpose of treatment. When intense pulsed light is irradiated to the skin, light of a specific wavelength is absorbed by the pigment, blood vessels or water in the skin and converted into heat. This heat causes the temperature of the target tissue to rise, thereby promoting the treatment effect. The photothermal effect is particularly effective in improving pigmentation, treating vascular lesions, and stimulating collagen production. In photoelectric medical beauty, by selecting the appropriate wavelength and energy density, doctors can precisely control the transfer of heat, thereby minimizing damage to surrounding tissues and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. In order to enhance the treatment effect, multiple courses are usually required, and patients may feel a slight warm sensation after treatment, which will gradually subside within a few days. Overall, the photothermal effect is one of the key mechanisms for the success of IPL treatment.

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Schematic diagram of the photothermal effect of intense pulsed light on different target color bases

6. Selective Photo-thermal Effect

Selective Photo-thermal Effect is an intense pulsed light (IPL) One of the core principles of treatment, it makes IPL technology have significant therapeutic effects in medical beauty. This principle mainly relies on the wavelength of light, the absorption of light, and the optical properties of the target tissue. Light of a specific wavelength can selectively act on the target tissue, such as melanin or blood vessels, while having less impact on the surrounding healthy tissue. This characteristic gives IPL technology a significant advantage in skin beauty and treatment. In photoelectric medical beauty, by adjusting the spectral characteristics and energy output of the device, doctors can effectively target different skin problems. For example, shorter wavelengths of light are better absorbed by areas with higher pigment concentrations (such as spots or freckles), while longer wavelengths of light are suitable for vascular problems. Selective photothermal action not only improves the effectiveness of treatment, but also reduces the occurrence of side effects, making the treatment process safer and more reliable. For patients, this means less recovery time and less discomfort while achieving the desired results.

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Basic principle diagram of selective photothermal effect

7. Thermal Relaxation Time (TRT)

Thermal Relaxation Time (TRT) is an important concept in photothermal therapy. It involves how the tissue dissipates heat after light energy is converted into heat energy to affect the treatment effect and safety. Thermal relaxation time refers to the time required for the temperature of the tissue to return to the baseline level after absorbing light energy. Different types of tissues have different thermal relaxation times, a parameter that is important in photoelectric medical aesthetic treatments. Understanding TRT can help doctors develop reasonable treatment intervals and pulse frequencies to avoid tissue damage caused by overheating. For example, normal tissues on the surface of the skin have a shorter TRT, which is suitable for treatments with short pulse widths and frequent pulses to ensure that heat does not accumulate to cause damage. For deeper tissues, longer TRT may require longer pulse intervals to allow heat to dissipate and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. By scientifically managing TRT, doctors can optimize the treatment process and improve efficacy while reducing patient discomfort and potential risks.

Thermal Relaxation Time (TRT)  Click on the blue text to read the detailed original text←

Schematic diagram of tissue thermal relaxation time

8. Spectral Selectivity

Spectral selectivity refers to the selective action of different wavelengths of light on specific skin components, such as melanin or blood vessels. Intense pulsed light devices usually have the ability to output multiple wavelengths, making them flexible for treating a variety of skin problems. By choosing the right wavelength, doctors can ensure the targeted and effective treatment. For example, light with a wavelength of 500 to 600 nanometers is more easily absorbed by melanin and is suitable for removing pigment spots; while light with a wavelength of 700 nanometers or longer can penetrate deep into the dermis to combat vascular problems such as red blood streaks. In clinical practice, doctors will accurately select wavelengths based on the patient's skin type and specific problems to optimize the treatment effect. At the same time, spectral selectivity helps reduce discomfort and improve the patient's overall treatment experience.

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9. Energy Density

Energy density is the amount of light energy per unit area, which determines the intensity of treatment. Energy density refers to the energy applied per unit area, usually calculated in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). In photoelectric medical beauty, the size of energy density is directly related to the treatment effect and safety. Reasonable energy density can ensure effective treatment while avoiding damage to the skin. Too high energy density may cause adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, and burns on the skin, while too low energy density may not achieve the expected effect. Before treatment, the doctor will make a comprehensive assessment based on the patient's skin quality, treatment area, and specific problems, and adjust the energy density to the optimal level. In addition, several treatments may gradually increase the energy density according to the recovery of the skin to achieve better results. Through scientific energy density settings, IPL treatment can find an ideal balance between safety and effect to help patients achieve their vision of beauty.

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10. Cooling System

The cooling system is a vital component of photoelectric therapy equipment. Its main function is to reduce the heat generated during treatment to protect the skin and improve the patient's comfort. During treatment, the light source releases a large amount of energy, which is converted into heat when irradiating the skin, which may cause the skin surface temperature to be too high, causing discomfort or damage. Therefore, cooling systems usually use a variety of technologies, including air cooling, water cooling, and semiconductor cooling. These cooling methods can be performed before, during, or after light irradiation to maintain a safe temperature for the skin. For example, in laser hair removal or photorejuvenation treatment, effective cooling can significantly reduce pain and redness and swelling reactions, thereby improving the tolerance of treatment. In addition, the design of the cooling system must also consider the portability of the equipment and the ease of operation, so that medical personnel can make quick and flexible adjustments during treatment.

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11. Filter

Filter plays an important role in photoelectric therapy. It selectively transmits light of specific wavelengths and blocks unnecessary spectral components, thereby ensuring the maximum therapeutic effect. Different skin problems require different wavelengths of light for targeted treatment. For example, some wavelengths have strong absorption of melanin and are suitable for the treatment of pigmentation, while other wavelengths are more suitable for vascular lesions. The use of filters can not only improve the targeted treatment, but also reduce the impact on surrounding healthy tissues and reduce the risk of side effects. In optoelectronic medical beauty, doctors usually choose appropriate filters according to the specific conditions of the patients to ensure the best treatment effect. At the same time, the material and quality of the filter also directly affect the transmittance and scattering of light, so its performance needs to be carefully considered when selecting equipment.

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Using different filters to achieve strong pulsed light treatment for different indications

12. Spot Size

Spot size refers to the diameter of the light spot formed when the light source irradiates the skin surface. It is one of the key factors that determine the treatment effect and safety. Larger spots can cover a larger area of skin and are suitable for rapid treatment such as large-scale skin rejuvenation or hair removal. However, for some treatments that require precise positioning, such as removing small areas of pigmentation or tattoos, smaller spots are more suitable. The spot size affects the energy density of the light, which in turn affects the depth and effect of the treatment. In photoelectric medical beauty, doctors can adjust the spot size according to the patient's skin type, the nature of the problem, and the desired results to achieve the best effect. In addition, the uniformity of the spot is also an important factor. A uniform spot can ensure consistency during the treatment process and avoid local overheating or underheating.

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Schematic diagram of the effect of different spot sizes on treatment effects

13. Treatment Depth

Treatment Depth refers to the depth range that light energy can reach when it acts on the skin. This parameter is crucial to the success of photoelectric therapy. Different wavelengths and energy settings will affect the ability of light to penetrate the skin. For example, short-wavelength light can usually only act on the epidermis and is suitable for treating superficial spots; while long-wavelength light can penetrate deep into the dermis and is suitable for treating pigmentation or aging skin. Therefore, understanding the treatment depth characteristics of light of different wavelengths can help doctors develop more targeted treatment plans. In optoelectronic medical aesthetic applications, the control of treatment depth not only affects the treatment effect, but also affects the patient's comfort and safety. Doctors usually evaluate the patient's skin type and specific symptoms before treatment to select the appropriate light source and treatment parameters to ensure the best treatment effect.

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IPL treatment effects of different treatment depths for various indications

14. Skin Photo-reactivity

Skin Photo-reactivity refers to the degree of skin's response to light exposure, including possible redness, pigment changes, and allergies. Different individuals have different tolerance to light therapy due to differences in skin type, genetic factors, and the drugs used. For example, some skin types (such as fair or sensitive skin) may be more sensitive to light therapy and prone to adverse reactions. Therefore, before conducting photoelectric medical aesthetic treatment, doctors usually conduct a detailed assessment of the patient's skin and ask about their medical history to determine their adaptability to light therapy. During the treatment process, understanding the patient's photosensitivity can help doctors adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner, select the appropriate light source and energy settings, and maximize the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. In addition, doctors may also give patients postoperative care advice to help them alleviate photosensitivity reactions and improve treatment satisfaction.

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Diagram of UV rays affecting skin photosensitivity

15. Pigment Absorption

Pigment absorption refers to the ability of different types of pigments in the skin (such as melanin and hemoglobin) to absorb light of a specific wavelength. Each pigment has different absorption characteristics for light, which requires doctors to choose the appropriate wavelength in photoelectric therapy to achieve the best treatment effect. For example, when targeting pigmentation problems, the selected light wavelength should match the absorption peak of melanin to ensure that the light energy is effectively absorbed, thereby destroying abnormal pigment cells. In optoelectronic medical beauty, the pigment absorption characteristics can help doctors design more precise treatment plans to achieve ideal treatment results while reducing damage to surrounding normal tissues. In addition, understanding the mechanism of pigment absorption can also help develop new treatment technologies and equipment to improve the efficiency and safety of treatment.

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Schematic diagram of intense pulsed light treatment of skin pigmentation

Schematic diagram of intense pulsed light removing pigmentation through photothermal effect

16. Tissue Response

Tissue response refers to the physiological changes in the skin after light therapy, including processes such as inflammation, repair and regeneration. Effective phototherapy should be able to promote beneficial tissue responses to achieve skin improvement and regeneration. After treatment, the skin may experience temporary redness, tingling or slight pigment changes, which are normal physiological reactions and indicate that the body is repairing itself. Understanding the mechanism of tissue response can help doctors reasonably arrange the treatment cycle and intensity to optimize the treatment effect and reduce potential side effects. In photoelectric medical beauty applications, doctors usually adjust subsequent treatment plans based on the patient's response to ensure maximum treatment effect. By scientifically monitoring and evaluating the recovery of the skin, doctors can develop personalized treatment plans to better meet the needs of patients.

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17. Pain Sensation

Pain Sensation refers to the discomfort experienced by patients during light therapy, which varies from person to person and is usually related to the type of treatment, light energy and skin sensitivity. Different treatments and equipment can cause different degrees of pain. In photoelectric medical beauty, doctors will try to take measures to reduce pain to improve patient comfort. Common methods include using a cooling system to reduce the temperature of the skin surface, applying local anesthetics, or adjusting the light energy and exposure time. In addition, doctors will fully communicate with patients before treatment, inform them of possible pain in advance, and provide relevant postoperative care suggestions to help patients cope better. Through comprehensive management of pain perception, doctors can not only improve patients' treatment experience, but also improve the compliance and effectiveness of treatment.

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18. Treatment Interval

The treatment interval refers to the time interval between two light treatments, which is crucial to ensure the treatment effect and skin safety. A reasonable treatment interval can give the skin enough time to repair itself and optimize the treatment effect. Generally speaking, the length of the treatment interval is affected by many factors, including the patient's skin type, specific condition, treatment intensity, and individual recovery ability. Doctors usually recommend that patients keep a few weeks between treatments to observe the effects of the initial treatment and make necessary adjustments. In addition, the arrangement of treatment intervals also needs to consider the patient's overall health and lifestyle to ensure that they can follow the treatment plan. In photoelectric medical beauty, a reasonable arrangement of treatment intervals can not only improve the effectiveness of treatment, but also minimize the risk of side effects, thereby achieving the desired cosmetic effect.

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Foremed Legend

The core founding team of Suzhou Foremed Legend Medical Technology Co., Ltd. comes from well-known universities at home and abroad such as Peking University. Foremed Legend is based on compliance and focuses on product strength, focusing on high The company is committed to becoming a leading enterprise in the field of high-end medical aesthetic optoelectronic equipment, a provider of integrated intelligent solutions for diagnosis and treatment, and a pioneer of medical aesthetic data integration platform.

Through tackling a series of underlying key technologies, Foremed Legend has independently developed a number of high-end medical equipment such as picosecond laser therapy devices, long pulse laser therapy devices, intense pulsed light therapy devices, photoacoustic imaging skin detection devices and cold air therapy devices, and continues to deepen the research and development of core product technologies, using better technical solutions to benefit the vast number of beauty seekers.

Adhering to the principle of science and technology for good, Foremed Legend will work with industry and ecological partners to bring more safe and effective medical aesthetic optoelectronic equipment and integrated diagnosis and treatment solutions to the global medical aesthetic market.