How Are IPL and LED Treatments Different?
Khushi | Nov 12, 2025, 16:16 IST
This article explains the main differences between IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and LED (Light Emitting Diode) Therapy, two popular non-invasive treatments used to improve skin tone and texture. It highlights how IPL targets deeper skin layers to treat pigmentation, sun damage, and redness, while LED therapy gently works on surface concerns like acne, inflammation, and fine lines.
Light based skincare treatments have gained popularity among youth. The common options for these treatments include IPL and LED light therapy. Understanding how do these treatments differ, how they complement each other can help in achieving healthier and radiant skin.
What Is IPL Treatment?
IPL
It is a type of non-invasive cosmetic treatment which uses broad spectrum light that targets various skin concerns. While in lasers it uses single wavelength, IPL uses multiple wavelength treating several issues at once.
This type of procedure is used for reucing various skin issues like pigmentation, sun damage, redness, acne scars, and unwanted hair.
This procedure makes the skin look clearer, smoother and more even toned.
What Is LED Light Therapy
LED
In this procedure, it gently treats the skin and targets very specific skin concerns. Different light emit from this, serving different purpose like red light helps in boosting collagen and reduce wrinkles, while blue lights helps in targeting acne causing bacteria and calms inflammation.
LED light has minimal wavelength, so it does not use heat or intense pulses, making it safe for all skin types and suitable for sensitive skin. Doing this therapy regularly helps in improving skin texture, reduce breakouts, and promoting healthy and radiant skin.
Main differences between IPL and LED Treatments
| Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) | LED Light Therapy |
| It uses broad spectrum light with high intensity | Uses low wavelength as compared to IPL |
| Generates less heat during the treatment | Absolutely no heat is produced and is completely gentle |
| This procedure is best for skin issues like pigmentation, sun spots, broken capillaries and unwanted hair | While this is best for acne, inflammation, dullness and early signs of aging. |
Can Both Be Used At The Same Time
Treatment
Yes, both the treatments can be used together but not in the same session. Combining both the treatments in same plan can provide better results.
Using IPL light first to treat pigmentation or sun damage and LED therapy after in separate sessions promote healing, reduce redness and enhance collagen production.
Both procedures if done professionally helps in achieving clearer, smoother and more youthful looking skin while maintaining skin health and balance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the downside of IPL treatment?While IPL is generally safe and well-tolerated, it's important to understand the potential risks. Some patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort during or after the treatment. These side effects usually subside within a few hours to a day.
- What do dermatologists say about IPL?How effective is IPL? The results of IPL treatments vary from person to person, but studies have shown that they can effectively treat sun damage, age spots, and other skin conditions. We usually recommend a course of three sessions spaced one month apart with a maintenance session every six months to one year.
- Can IPL give you melasma?For some individuals, IPL's thermal energy can potentially trigger inflammation or worsen melasma, particularly in deeper skin tones or if the device isn't carefully calibrated.
