IPL, similar to laser, utilises the power of light to treat a multitude of skin concerns. Unlike laser, which utilises one collimated and coherent wavelength of light at a time, IPL delivers a spectrum of light into the tissue. Different wavelengths of light are picked up by various targets in the skin – water, pigment, or haemoglobin (red blood cells). Using a broad spectrum of wavelengths can therefore be used to treat multiple kinds of pigmentation, and multiple other conditions simultaneously. In addition to sunspots, age spots, freckles and discolouration, IPL can address redness, broken veins and capillaries, acne scarring, rosacea, and skin sagging/collagen loss. During treatment, IPL energy is delivered into the skin, having multiple outcomes. Energy is absorbed by pigment deposits in the tissue, which break up and shatter in response. Unable to continue surviving, they are pushed upwards through the skin’s layers until they reach the surface, where they flake off – much like a scab. Some of the energy is also attracted to blood, such is that inside burst capillaries and spider veins in the face. The IPL energy damages the vessel walls, which collapse and are transported out of the body’s waste system. As a third added bonus, wavelengths within the IPL energy spectrum are attracted to water molecules in the tissue. This interaction causes heat in the tissue, prompting the formation of new collagen fibres and having a skin tightening and plumping result.