IPL Acne Management
IPL acne management targets acne-prone skin to reduce acne bacteria, breakouts and inflammation for a clearer, more balanced and healthier looking complexion.
Free
Esthetician
15 mins
Curious about IPL skin rejuvenation and whether it is right for you? Our free on-phone consultation offers a chance to discuss your needs, learn about the process, and have your questions answered by a professional. Enjoy friendly advice and guidance before deciding on your next step.
Our IPL skin rejuvenation services strategically address a number of the most common skin concerns with just a handful of treatments:
Acne Management
IPL acne management targets acne-prone skin to reduce acne bacteria, breakouts and inflammation for a clearer, more balanced and healthier looking complexion.
Free
Esthetician
30 mins
Curious about IPL skin rejuvenation? Meet with a professional for a free in-salon consultation and patch test. Learn if this treatment suits your needs, ask questions, and experience a sample session in a comfortable salon setting. Your comfort and safety are always our priority.
Our IPL skin rejuvenation services strategically address a number of the most common skin concerns , including:
Acne Management
IPL acne management targets acne-prone skin to reduce acne bacteria, breakouts and inflammation for a clearer, more balanced and healthier looking complexion.
Single Treatments
IPL Acne Management – Spot Treatment (small, localised breakout area such as a cluster on chin or jawline) $39.00 10m
IPL Acne Management – Spot Treatment ADD ON $5.00 5m
IPL Acne Management – Forehead $59.00 15m
IPL Acne Management – Cheeks (both) $49.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – Chin $39.00 10m
IPL Acne Management – Full Face $159.00 35m
IPL Acne Management – Neck $99.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – Upper or Lower Back – From $179.00 40m
IPL Acne Management – Upper + Lower Back – From $299.00 1h
Packages
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Spot Treatment (small, localised breakout area such as a cluster on chin or jawline) $99.00 10m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Spot Treatment (small, localised breakout area such as a cluster on chin or jawline) $195.00 10m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Forehead $150.00 15m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Forehead $295.00 15m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Cheeks (both) $125.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Cheeks (both) $245.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Chin $99.00 10m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Chin $195.00 10m
IPL Acne Management- 3 treatment PACKAGE – Full Face $405.00 35m
IPL Acne Management- 6 treatment PACKAGE – Full Face $795.00 35m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Neck $255.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Neck $495.00 20m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Upper or Lower Back – From $456.00 40m
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Upper or Lower Back – From $895.00 40m
IPL Acne Management – 3 treatment PACKAGE – Upper + Lower Back – From $765.00 1h
IPL Acne Management – 6 treatment PACKAGE – Upper + Lower Back – From $1,495.00 1h
IPL Skin Rejuvenation: a fresh start for your skin
Our IPL skin rejuvenation services strategically address a number of the most common skin concerns with just a handful of treatments.
Pigmentation Correction
IPL pigmentation correction effectively fades and removes age spots, sun spots and discolouration to greatly improve overall skin tone, texture and radiance.
Vascular Therapy
Spider veins, broken capillaries, red spots and rosacea can all be reduced and removed to offer clients an even, more uniform complexion.
Photo Rejuvenation
Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smooth out irregularities and enhance your skin’s overall luminosity for a revitalised, youthful glow with IPL photo rejuvenation.
Acne Management
IPL acne management targets acne-prone skin to reduce acne bacteria, breakouts and inflammation for a clearer, more balanced and healthier looking complexion.
What is Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that happens when your hair follicles (tiny pores in the skin) become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This blockage can lead to different types of spots on the skin, such as:
Blackheads (open clogged pores)
Whiteheads (closed clogged pores)
Papules (small red bumps)
Pustules (red bumps with pus at the tip)
Nodules and cysts (larger, deeper, and often painful lumps)
It most often appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders—areas with more oil glands.
Causes:
Excess oil production
Hormonal changes (common in teenagers, menstrual cycles, pregnancy)
Certain medications or cosmetics
Genetics (it can run in families)
Bacteria (particularly Cutibacterium acnes)
Impact:
Acne can range from mild to severe. While mild acne is often just a cosmetic concern, severe acne can be painful, cause scarring, and affect self-esteem.
How does IPL Acne Management Work?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Acne Management uses broad-spectrum light pulses to target the root causes of acne—mainly bacteria and excess oil production. Unlike laser, which uses a single wavelength, IPL delivers multiple wavelengths of light that can penetrate the skin at different depths.
IPL Acne treatment is a non-ablative procedure that uses intense pulsed light to target C. acnes bacteria in the skin. C.acnes bacteria live in an oxygen-free environment & produce porphyrins. When these porphyrins absorb blue light, free radical damage & oxygen is produced. This process destroys the bacteria & reduces associated inflammation, assisting with the resolution of acne lesions.
The Process:
Targeting Bacteria
The light energy penetrates the skin and specifically targets the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), which contributes to breakouts.
The light destroys these bacteria, reducing active acne and preventing future flare-ups.
Regulating Sebum (Oil) Production
IPL helps shrink overactive sebaceous (oil) glands.
With less oil produced, pores are less likely to clog.
Reducing Inflammation & Redness
The light energy also targets the small blood vessels that feed inflammation in acne-prone areas.
This calms redness and swelling, making breakouts less noticeable.
Skin Healing & Collagen Boost
IPL stimulates collagen production in the dermis.
Over time, this can improve overall skin texture and reduce mild acne scarring.
What to Expect:
Treatment time: 20–40 minutes depending on the area.
Comfort level: Feels like a warm elastic snap on the skin, but is generally well-tolerated.
Course: Usually done in a series (e.g., 4–6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart).
Results: Reduced active acne, less oiliness, improved skin tone and clarity.
Is IPL Acne Management suitable for me?
IPL Acne Management is generally recommended for people who:
Have active, mild to moderate acne (especially red, inflamed pimples and pustules).
Struggle with recurring breakouts that haven’t responded well to topical creams or oral medications.
Have oily skin and enlarged pores, as IPL can help regulate oil production.
Experience post-acne redness and want an even skin tone.
Want non-invasive treatment with little downtime.
It’s often chosen by clients who want a skin-clearing solution without strong prescription medications.
Who Should Avoid IPL Acne Management:
IPL isn’t suitable for everyone. It may not be recommended if you:
- Fitzpatrick Skin Type V and VI (5 6).
- Clients with congestion and blackheads but no papules or pustules (can only treat active bacterial pustules (no broken lesions)).
- Folliculitis: Acne is not to be confused with folliculitis or an infected ingrown. If unsure, test patch and wait for results.
- Clients who are not prepped four weeks prior
- Clients whose skin is not in optimal health (i.e. impaired barrier or compromised skin).
Professional Assessment:
Before treatment, our expert skin technician will usually:
Assess your skin type (Fitzpatrick scale).
Review your medical history and medications.
Perform a patch test to check for reactions.
The best way to know if it’s right for you is to book a consultation with your practitioner.
What is the Pre and After Care?
Before Your IPL Acne Treatment (Pre-Care):
Avoid tanning (sun, solarium, fake tan): for at least 2–4 weeks before. Tanned skin increases risk of burns or pigmentation changes.
Stop using retinol, AHA/BHA peels, benzoyl peroxide, or strong acne creams: for 3–5 days before. These can make skin too sensitive.
No waxing, threading, or chemical peels: in the treatment area for at least 1–2 weeks.
Keep skin clean and hydrated: but avoid heavy oils or makeup on the day.
Check medications: tell your clinician if you’re on antibiotics or medications that make skin light-sensitive.
During the IPL Acne Treatment:
Preparation: Your skin will be cleansed, and a cool gel will be applied to help conduct the light safely.
Protective eyewear: Both you and your therapist wear protective goggles.
The treatment: A handheld IPL device delivers pulses of light. Each pulse feels like a warm flick or elastic band snap.
Session length: 20–40 minutes depending on area (face, chest, or back).
Comfort: Most clients tolerate it well; some machines have cooling tips to minimise discomfort.
After Your IPL Acne Treatment (Post-Care):
Mild redness or warmth: like a light sunburn, usually settles within a few hours.
Avoid heat & friction: no hot showers, saunas, gyms, or exfoliating products for 24–48 hours.
Strict sun protection: use SPF 30–50 daily. Your skin will be more light-sensitive.
No harsh acne products: (benzoyl peroxide, retinol, strong acids) for 3–5 days post-treatment.
Hydration is key: use gentle cleansers and soothing moisturisers.
Breakout “purge”: some clients notice a short breakout phase before improvement, as bacteria die off and pores clear.
Results: clearer, calmer skin usually appears after a series of 4–6 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart.
Is IPL Acne Management Safe?
Yes!
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Acne Management is a safe, non-invasive treatment when performed by trained professionals. It works by gently using light energy to target acne-causing bacteria, reduce excess oil, and calm inflammation — all without damaging the skin.
What you can expect:
A warm, quick “snap” feeling during treatment (well-tolerated by most clients).
Mild redness or warmth afterwards, similar to light sunburn, which usually fades within a few hours.
Clearer, calmer skin after a series of treatments.
Safety first:
Your skin type and medical history are always assessed before treatment. IPL isn’t recommended for everyone, such as clients who:
Have very dark or freshly tanned skin
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are taking certain acne or light-sensitive medications
Have open wounds or very severe acne
IPL Acne Management is a gentle, effective, and low-risk option for treating mild to moderate acne. When combined with good skincare and sun protection, it can deliver noticeable improvements in skin clarity and confidence.
The best way to know if it’s right for you is to book a consultation with your practitioner.
How long should I wait between IPL Acne Management appointments if I've bought a Package?
IPL Acne treatments involve little downtime. Depending on the severity of the client’s concern, typically, two treatments are recommended per week for the first 2 – 4 weeks. Maintenance can be performed weekly to monthly, as required.
Reasoning:
Skin recovery – IPL creates controlled heat in the skin; waiting at least 2 weeks allows redness and sensitivity to settle.
Effectiveness – spacing sessions ensures the light has time to stimulate healing processes and reduce sebaceous activity.
Consistency – we recommend a course of 4–8 treatments, depending on acne severity and skin type.
Can I combine this treatment with other treatments?
IPL Acne Correction can be combined with other treatment modalities, such as the MediLUX LED (blue, red & yellow lights), which can be performed before or after your IPL Acne Correction treatment to help support the wound healing process, reduce skin inflammation, and boost the effect of your IPL Blue wavelength.
Other treatments targeting oil flow include Salicylic or Mandelic Acid Peels (MILD with LOW %) or a Carbon Laser Facial before your IPL treatment. (coming soon to High Brow).
What targeted skin care, diet and lifestyle regime should I be following?
Managing acne involves a combination of proper skincare, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle. Here are some general tips!
Prescriptions:
Look out for formulations that contain:
1. Acne Targeting Complex that contains:
- Oleanolic Acid: Regulates sebum, helps inhibit melanin production, and protects collagen.
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid (NDGA): helps normalise sebum production, reduce inflammation, and limit oxidative stress in acneic skin by directly modulating sebocyte activity and associated inflammatory pathways.
2. Niacinamide
Reduces redness and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Regulates oil production and strengthens the skin barrier.
3. Liquorice Root Extract (0.1%)
Calms inflammation.
Improves clarity and supports an even tone.
Diet:
1. Stay Hydrated:
- Dehydrated skin can trigger an increase in sebum production. Drinking water is primarily thought to prevent acne by promoting proper skin hydration
2. Balanced Diet:
- Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-Glycaemic foods, as they may contribute to acne.
- Diets with a high Glycaemic Index can lead to elevated insulin, which can stimulate the production of androgens and, subsequently, sebum production. In addition to overproducing sebum, elevated insulin levels have also been shown to impact levels of circulating insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and insulin-growth factor binding protein (IGFBP-3), resulting in increased keratinocyte proliferation, another major contributing factor to acne. As IGF-1 increases, it also influences the production of androgens, growth hormones, and glucocorticoids, which can promote comedogenic activity. Along with overproducing sebum, androgens may also increase endogenous levels of IGF-1 in the blood, which subsequently produces more androgens, creating a vicious cycle of sebum production and, therefore, acne.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
- A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of acne. (fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts).
4. Zinc:
- Zinc works as an anti-inflammatory ingredient. It suppresses the immune reaction to acne-causing bacteria and, in doing so, actually lessens inflammation, swelling, and redness.
5 Limit Dairy:
- Clients should consider reducing dairy consumption and see if it makes a difference.
Lifestyle Tips:
- Avoid any comedogenic ingredients in your skincare and make-up!
- Manage Stress -stress can contribute to acne flare-ups, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is essential.
- Good Hygiene – keep your hair clean and away from your face, especially if you use hair products. You should regularly change your pillow slip and sterilise anything that comes into contact with your skin, such as make-up brushes, smartphones and, of course, your hands.
Remember, it may take time to see improvements, and consistency is key. If your acne is severe or persistent, you may need to consult a dermatologist for professional advice and treatment options.