Treatments · Skin Rejuvenation
IPL Photofacial (DYE-VL) in San Antonio
Intense pulsed light (IPL), also known as DYE-VL, on the Alma Harmony XL Pro to fade sun spots, redness and uneven tone with little to no downtime.
Medically reviewed by Francisco Cardona, MD, board-certified physician
Device
Alma Harmony XL Pro
Session time
About 30 minutes
Downtime
Minimal
Sessions
Often 3–5
Overview
What is an IPL photofacial?
IPL uses broad-spectrum light that is absorbed by pigment and blood vessels in the skin. It is a light-based treatment, not a laser. DYE-VL is the name of the Harmony XL Pro applicator we use, so IPL photofacial and DYE-VL are the same treatment. Brown spots darken and flake off over about a week, and redness gradually fades.
The Harmony XL Pro uses filtered light technology designed to target pigment and redness more precisely, making it a strong option for sun-damaged skin on the face, neck, chest and hands.
What it treats
- Sun spots and age spots
- Facial redness and flushing
- Rosacea-related redness
- Broken capillaries
- Uneven skin tone
- Sun damage on the chest and hands
Who it’s for
- Adults with sun damage or uneven tone
- Patients with lighter to medium skin tones
- People who want results without downtime
- Patients maintaining results from other treatments
What to Expect
Your treatment, step by step
01
Your Skin Evaluation
We start with an Alma IQ skin analysis to map texture, pigment and redness, then set goals together.
02
Your Treatment
Cool gel is applied and light pulses are delivered. Most patients feel a quick snap like a rubber band.
03
Results & Follow-Up
Spots darken and flake off over about a week. A series of sessions gives the most even result.
The Technology
Alma Harmony XL Pro
A multi-application platform with filtered intense pulsed light for pigment and redness, plus laser handpieces for vascular, tattoo and rejuvenation treatments.
Real Results
Before & after
Vita Nova patients, shared with their written permission. Individual results vary.
In the Treatment Room
IPL photofacial on the Alma Harmony XL Pro
Each IPL session is performed in our San Antonio treatment room with protective eyewear and settings matched to your skin type.
Is IPL a laser?
No. IPL (intense pulsed light) uses filtered broad-spectrum light rather than a single laser wavelength. It is a light-based skin rejuvenation treatment that targets pigment and redness.
What is DYE-VL?
DYE-VL is the IPL applicator on our Alma Harmony XL Pro, designed to target redness, broken capillaries and pigment. IPL photofacial and DYE-VL are the same treatment.
Does IPL hurt?
Most patients feel a quick snapping sensation. It is generally well tolerated without numbing.
Is there downtime?
Minimal. Spots may look darker for several days before they flake off.
How many sessions do I need?
Most patients benefit from three to five sessions spaced about a month apart.
Can I have IPL with a tan?
No. Tanned skin raises the risk of side effects, so we ask you to avoid sun before and after treatment.
How much does an IPL photofacial cost?
Pricing depends on the area treated and the number of sessions you need. We give you a clear quote at your evaluation, and package pricing is often available.
Can IPL treat the chest and hands?
Yes. IPL works well for sun damage on the neck, chest, arms and hands.
Who should not get IPL?
People with a recent tan, very dark skin tones or certain photosensitive conditions may need a different treatment. We assess this at your evaluation.
What does my skin look like afterward?
Spots look darker for several days, like coffee grounds, then flake off within about a week.
How long do IPL results last?
Results can last a long time with sun protection, though new spots can form. Many patients do maintenance once a year.
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Begin Here
Your plan starts with an evaluation
Find out whether IPL is right for your skin tone and concerns.
Individual results vary. Results are not guaranteed. This page is for general education and is not medical advice.