Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photofacial treatments have become a popular solution for achieving clearer, brighter, more youthful-looking skin. But what many don’t realize is that IPL, especially when administered by a highly specialized oculofacial plastic surgeon, goes far beyond cosmetic enhancement. With Jennifer Murdock, MD, IPL is used not only to treat facial pigmentation and redness, but also to target deeper inflammatory processes that affect the eyes and eyelids.
What Is an IPL Photofacial?
An IPL photofacial uses broad-spectrum light to target unwanted pigmentation, vascular lesions, and redness. The light energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed by melanin (in pigmented spots) or hemoglobin (in broken or inflamed capillaries), effectively breaking them down while stimulating collagen production. The result is brighter, smoother, more evenly toned skin.
Our Platform of Choice: The Rohrer Spectrum IPL
The Rohrer Aesthetics Spectrum IPL is a cornerstone in our practice. It offers customizable wavelengths that allow for tailored treatment of various skin concerns, from sunspots and age spots to rosacea and small facial veins. Its safety features and versatility make it particularly suitable for the sensitive areas treated in our oculoplastic practice in Miami.
Treating Facial Pigmentation and Rosacea
Pigmentary issues and rosacea are two of the most common reasons patients seek IPL. Rosacea is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin, including the eyelids. The vessels in the skin and eyelids become irritated and inflamed, causing redness, dryness, and itching, and even irritation of the oil glands, which can then lead to dry eyes. The IPL targets pigmented lesions and small vessels that contribute to this inflammation and persistent redness. Over a series of treatments, patients often see significant improvements in facial appearance and skin tone. Those treated for ocular rosacea feel improved lubrication of their eyes and less irritation.
For those with rosacea, IPL does more than fade redness. It helps to reduce inflammation at the vascular level, decreasing the frequency and severity of flares. Patients report less flushing, a smoother complexion, and an overall reduction in skin sensitivity. After IPL treatments, many patients who suffer from rosacea don’t have to continue using oral medications and topical creams that can often have unwanted side effects.
IPL in an Oculoplastic Practice: A Hidden Gem
Where IPL truly excels in our practice is in its ability to treat chronic inflammatory eye conditions, like ocular rosacea and blepharitis, that are often complicated or undertreated. Few providers are trained or comfortable using IPL near the eyes, but with meticulous ocular protection, this technology becomes an invaluable tool.
Ocular Rosacea, Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
These conditions are part of a spectrum of inflammatory disorders that can cause chronic dry eyes, lid swelling, redness, and discomfort. IPL targets the underlying inflammation by reducing abnormal vascularity around the eyelid margin and improving meibomian gland function.
Patients often describe relief from the gritty, sticky sensation that comes with dry eyes. Many find that they no longer need to rely as heavily on prescription drops or oral antibiotics.
Treatments are typically spaced every 3–4 months for maintenance, though some patients see improvement even sooner. It is an ideal complement to other therapies that have a cumulative effect that enhances long-term outcomes. As always, maintaining a routine blepharitis regimen is always key to optimizing results.
Preparing the Skin for Eyelid Surgery
Another powerful use of IPL is as a pre-treatment before eyelid surgery in patients with underlying rosacea. Chronic inflammation can lead to prolonged post-operative swelling and delayed healing. By calming the skin with IPL beforehand, surgical outcomes may improve, and recovery time is often reduced. Dr. Murdock, as an eyelid specialist, is particularly well experienced with identifying nuanced features and combining different treatments, like IPL and blepharoplasty, to give her patients the best results with minimal downtime.
A Note on Chalazion Treatment
Did you know IPL can be used as a standalone treatment for chalazion? While this is not widely marketed, it is a useful non-invasive approach for certain patients, particularly those with recurrent lesions or underlying rosacea.
Safety First: Ocular Protection is Paramount
Due to the proximity to the eye, IPL in this region demands exceptional caution. Only a limited number of specialists are trained in how to administer IPL safely around the eyelids. At Jennifer Murdock, MD, we use specialized corneal shields and follow strict protocols to protect the eye during treatment.
While IPL treatments with Jennifer Murdock, MD, are designed to feel as soothing and comfortable as a luxury spa experience, they are grounded in the precision and safety protocols of medical care. Because IPL is not covered by insurance, it is important to understand the dual benefits: it can alleviate medical symptoms like dry eye, ocular inflammation, and meibomian gland dysfunction, while also enhancing the skin’s aesthetic appearance by stimulating collagen and reducing fine lines around the eyes. But without the expertise of a trained oculoplastic specialist, many of these deeper benefits go unrecognized—and certain risks increase. Our advanced protocols ensure that every treatment delivers both therapeutic and cosmetic value safely, especially in the delicate eye area.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
IPL is best for patients with light to medium skin tones dealing with:
- Sun damage and age spots
- Facial redness and rosacea
- Persistent dryness and ocular discomfort
- Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation
- Meibomian gland clogging and stickiness
Unlocking the Power of IPL Photofacial Treatments: Beyond Skin Deep
IPL photofacial treatments are often seen as just another cosmetic service—but in the right hands, they offer much more. With the Spectrum IPL and a nuanced understanding of periocular conditions, we at Jennifer Murdock, MD, located in Miami, Florida, can treat not just what appears in the mirror, but also what patients feel every day.
For many, IPL treatments restore daily comfort and confidence while enhancing skin health and appearance through expert, medically directed care—available exclusively from Dr. Murdock in Miami. Call our office to set up your consultation today.
