IPL is an effective treatment that focuses specifically on skin tone and color. IPL should not be confused with lasers. Although lasers also use intense light and heat to treat undesirable skin issues, they are composed of a single wavelength of light instead of a broad spectrum. This means that they are more targeted, which is why they are utilized for focused treatments like hair removal. To see real results from IPL, about three to six sessions may be required. You can space your treatments a few weeks apart. After you get the treatment done, age spots, birth marks and freckles will get much darker and basically scab over, and then peel off within a week of the treatment. Because you can be more aggressive with the treatment, fairer skin types tend to respond best. As it can cause hyperpigmentation and scarring, darker skin types need to be very careful with light therapy. Very dark skin cannot be treated at all. Some people report that the treatment feels like a rubber band is snapping against your skin, and the treated area may feel a burning sensation for a bit immediately following the session. If you have been considering using a peel to deal with spots and signs of aging on your skin, this could be a more affordable and low-maintenance alternative. You will get similar results from a peel, but peels require more downtime. With peels, much of the skin on your face will exfoliate, whereas with IPL it is easier to cover up the effects with makeup. Most people can expect about one week of downtime. The spots on your skin will appear darker and your face may look muddled or dirty.