Hi, you are probably here because you are wondering if The Glass IPL Photofacial actually works. Can at home IPL really improve the skin and do all that it claims to do? Let me share with you my experience!
I have been reviewing skincare products since 2012, worked for a skincare company for 7 years, and have worked alongside countless brands. I have tried everything under the sun when it comes to skincare and know what can work and what might not work.
First, let’s dive into the details of IPL technology and what it can do for us.
At home IPL and what it can do
IPL devices for use at home as not new to the beauty industry. They have been around for over 10 years, and are most commonly marketed at hair removal devices. What’s not as common is seeing a brand actually marketing an at home IPL device for its skincare benefits instead of hair removal.
Let’s talk about how IPL technology works and all its benefits.
IPL or Impulsed Light works by sending fast pulses of multiple waves lengths of light. This light targets clusters of high density pigment in the skin and hair follicles rapidly heating these clusters up and helping the body to break down the cell die-off.
This results in hair removal and fading pigmentation in the skin.
Aside from pigment targeting, the intense light wavelengths and heat from the light stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production, helping to increase collagen levels over time.
Outside of anti-aging, these wavelengths of light are so intense, they kill off acne causing bacteria and reduce excessive oil production in the skin. This gives IPL amazing recovery benefits to those that suffer from acne and large pores caused by oily skin.
That all sounds pretty amazing, right? But does it actually work?
I have been using my Glass IPL Photofacial from Glow Atelier since November 2022. That in itself should give you an answer, but let me share the nitty gritty.
I originally started my IPL photofacial journey to help control my acne breakouts. I have dry acne prone skin, meaning that other acne recovery options such as AHA & BHA can quickly become too drying for my skin. In turn, resulting in causing more harm than good by damaging my skin barrier.
My objective with this at home IPL was to improve my skin acne, stimulate collagen, and help create a more bright and even skin tone. As I do not have many dark spots caused by sun damage, I am unable to give a review on that function.
The product and its packaging
The Glass IPL Photofacial, at home IPL device comes in beautiful packaging with a box you will not want to throw away. It comes with a razor to remove any hair before your session, protective eyewear, a power plug, and an introduction pamphlet.
When plugging in and turning on the IPL device, the default settings are the most gentle mode with the ice cold feature automatically activated. The ice cold feature is one of the major aspects of this device that makes it more suitable for use on the skin. This is because the icey cold touch controls the heat from the IPL on the surface of the skin, reducing the chances of IPL burns and irritation.
Using the Glass IPL Photofacial
For my first session, I played it safe and used the Face Mode with Level 1 intensity. I ensured my skin was freshly cleansed and hydrated with a hydrating toner before beginning my session.
While wearing the provided eyewear, I started using the device on my face. I followed the directions, activating the IPL flash, moving the head of the device to an untreated area of skin, activating the flash, and repeating that method until my entire face had been treated. I always make sure to avoid the eye area as well to reduce the chance of retinal damage.
After my session, I applied my skincare as a normally would, while making sure not to use any form of acid or retinol as the manual explained. The next day my skin did not look any different.
My Final Results
I have now been using the Glass IPL Photofacial for 10 months as a regular treatment in my skincare routine.
So when did I start seeing results?
It is important to keep in mind that nothing is an overnight fix, especially when it comes to at home treatments. IPL at home is a more gentle treatment option than a professional clinics IPL treatment. These devices are made to be very safe for consumers to avoid harm to the user.
As such, results require commitment and dedication. So that it was I did, I stayed dedicated to the journey, and here is my overall result and opinion.
My skin has NEVER LOOKED BETTER!
My acne is under control, my skin tone is more even, my post inflammatory hyper pigmentation from acne is gone and my skin overall looks more youthful and radiant!
I first started noticing the benefits of IPL around 1 month of twice a week sessions. I played around with the settings to find the mode and level of intensity that was best for me. Personally, my skin could tolerate the highest settings around the 3 week mark.
The first result I noticed was a reduction in acne breakouts. After that, I noticed my post inflammatory hyper pigmentation from my acne was fading away quickly and after that, I began to notice that my skin overall just looked better in general.
Get The Glass IPL Photofacial here
The Negative
To be honest, I’ve never had any issues with using the Glass IPL Photofacial device. I have been using it for almost an entire year and have had no negative effects. But let me tell you 5 things that everyone should keep in mind before starting to use IPL for their skincare routine.
- Any result takes time. This is a lifestyle, not a quick fix. Be dedicated and committed.
- Your dark spots will get darker at first, which is normal. This is because IPL targets pigment, heats it up and your body metabolizes it by pushing the dead burnt pigment cells to the surface. I found physical exfoliation and rotating IPL and retinol/acid sessions can help to speed this process.
- You cannot use acids or retinoids at the exact same time as IPL. These types of creams cause the skin to be more sensitive to light. I find if I follow the recommendations and wait 5 days after my retinol/acid session to use IPL, my skin is not affected.
- IPL cannot be used alongside medications that cause light sensitivity. If you are taking any medication, ensure they do not cause light sensitivity before using IPL.
- IPL Cannot be used on dark skin tones. This is because IPL targets pigment. If you’re a darker skin tone, this technology can be dangerous.
What it comes down to
I am genuinely shocked I never knew I could use IPL as a skincare treatment at home. I am so happy that I found The Glass IPL Photofacial and am now helping to share its greatness with all of you reading this review.
This device has been the best answer to my adult dry acne prone skin and is something everyone with acne should try.
Where to buy
You can get The Glass IPL Photofacial officially at here glowatelier.com
Use coupon code ITSHONEYBII for $$$ off your order.