Every year around November, patients ask me why their brown spots suddenly look darker, or why their skin seems dull. Winter light is softer, which gives everyone a false sense of security. The truth is your summer sun damage only shows itself when the tan fades. That is exactly why winter is the perfect time for IPL.
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. Think of it as a bright, gentle flash that targets pigment and redness. It helps fade sun spots, broken capillaries, rosacea and uneven tone. Winter gives you the lowest UV exposure, which keeps your results safe and steady.
What IPL Actually Does
I like explaining IPL in simple terms. The light seeks out brown and red pigment. Once it finds it, the energy breaks it down into tiny particles. Your body then clears those particles naturally over the next several days. You do not peel. You do not hide from the world. Most people go right back to work after their session.
After a few treatments, your skin looks clearer, brighter and more even. Makeup sits better. Skin feels fresher. It is incredibly satisfying to see the before and after results.
Why Winter Makes IPL Even Better
IPL needs cooperation from the weather. You cannot have a fresh tan. You cannot sit in the sun right after. Winter solves that problem beautifully. Days are shorter. UV levels drop. Everyone is bundled up and spending more time indoors.
Your skin stays stable, which means the treatment can focus on what we want it to target. The results are more predictable. The recovery is smoother. You protect your investment with far less effort than in July.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you come in, we cleanse your skin and place protective eyewear. The light feels like a quick snap, but most people handle it very well. Some areas are more sensitive than others, but the treatment is fast. Right after, the skin can look a little pink and warm. Pigmented spots often darken over the first day, then flake off gently without any peeling.
I always ask my patients to moisturize generously and use sunscreen every morning. Even in February. Even on cloudy days. It keeps your skin bright and prevents new pigmentation from forming.
Is IPL Right for Everyone
I always like to be honest about who is a good candidate. IPL works beautifully for many people, but not absolutely everyone. It is most effective on lighter skin tones because the device needs to distinguish between the pigment we want to treat and the natural pigment in the skin. If the contrast is not clear enough, the treatment may not be safe.
Certain conditions also require caution. If you use photosensitive medications, have very active acne, or if your skin is irritated, we might delay or choose a different option. Pregnant patients usually wait until after delivery. And if someone struggles with deep melasma, we discuss a different strategy since IPL can sometimes overstimulate pigment.
The best way to know is simply to come in for a consultation. I look at the skin under bright light, ask a few questions about your routine and health, then decide with you. There is always a safe and effective plan for every skin type. IPL just happens to be one of our favourite tools in winter.
The Secret Winter Routine
If you really want the best winter glow, pair IPL with a simple routine.
A gentle cleanser.
A nourishing cream that keeps the skin barrier happy.
Sunscreen every morning.
Hydration through the day.
Winter can be harsh, but it is also the season when your skin can make the biggest comeback.
Final Thoughts
IPL is one of my favorite treatments because it quietly transforms the skin without downtime. Winter gives you the perfect conditions to get the most out of it. If you are noticing dullness, sun spots, redness or uneven tone, it might be a good time to try it.
Come see me if you want to talk through your options. I will walk you through everything so your skin feels calm, bright and ready for the spring.
