IPL treatments in Montreal

Viora V30 intense pulsed light to fade spots and redness, clear the skin and reduce unwanted hair for the long term.

Intense pulsed light treatment
IPL treatment with the Viora V30 platform

IPL with Viora V30

With Viora, light-based aesthetic treatments reach a new level. Its technology takes your needs into account, whatever your skin type.

We fine-tune every treatment setting so that your sessions are as safe, comfortable and effective as possible.

How does IPL work?

The device sends out flashes of filtered light. The light is absorbed by melanin (spots, hair) or haemoglobin (small vessels), turns into heat and targets the area being treated without harming the surrounding skin. It is not a laser: the light covers several wavelengths.

What IPL can treat

Freckles and sun spots on a shoulder

Sun spots

Brown spots left by the sun darken, then fade within a few weeks.

Skin with hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation

A more even skin tone by targeting excess melanin.

Skin with acne blemishes

Acne

Helps clear the skin and reduce redness from blemishes.

Face with an even complexion

Redness and small vessels

Reduces diffuse redness and small visible vessels on the face.

Smiling woman with radiant skin

Rejuvenation

Brings radiance back to dull skin and boosts its renewal.

IPL treatment on the face

Hair removal

Lasting reduction of unwanted hair on the face and body.

How it works

  1. Consultation

    We assess your skin, hair or spots, your history and any medication. A small test area may be done.

  2. Preparation

    The skin is cleansed and, for hair removal, shaved. You wear protective glasses.

  3. The treatment

    A gel is applied, then the light is delivered in flashes. It feels like a light elastic snap.

  4. Follow-up sessions

    Results build from one session to the next. We adjust the settings as you progress.

Hair removal
Usually 6 to 8 sessions, every 4 to 8 weeks
Spots & redness
Usually 3 to 5 sessions, every 3 to 4 weeks
Length
15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area
Afterwards
Back to your day the same day

Guidelines only: the number of sessions depends on your skin, the area and the result you want.

Before your session

  • Avoid sun, tanning and self-tanner for 2 to 4 weeks before.
  • For hair removal: shave the area the day before, but don’t wax or tweeze in the previous 4 weeks.
  • Tell us about any photosensitising medication (some antibiotics, retinoids).
  • Come with clean skin, no makeup or cream on the area.

After your session

  • Redness like a mild sunburn may last a few hours.
  • Spots often darken, then flake off and fade within 1 to 2 weeks.
  • Apply SPF 30 or higher every day.
  • Avoid heat (sauna, intense exercise, hot baths) for 24 to 48 hours.

Good to know

IPL works on pigment, so it doesn’t work well on white, grey or very blond hair. For those, electrolysis is a better option. Tanned or darker skin needs adapted settings, and treatment is postponed during pregnancy.

IPL, electrolysis or waxing: which hair removal?

Each method has its place. Here is how they compare.

IPLElectrolysisWaxing
ResultLasting reductionPermanentTemporary (3 to 6 weeks)
Hair colourDark hairAll, including white and blondAll
Best forLarge areas: legs, underarms, bikiniSmall areas: upper lip, chin, browsAny area
SessionsUsually 6 to 8Several, depending on the areaRepeat as needed
BeforeNo sun; shave the day beforeVisible hairHair about 0.5 cm long

See electrolysis and waxing →

Frequently asked questions

Does IPL hurt?

Most people describe it as an elastic snap with some warmth. Cool gel and adapted settings keep the session comfortable.

Is IPL hair removal permanent?

IPL gives a lasting reduction in hair. A few maintenance sessions may help over time, depending on hormones and the area. Only electrolysis is recognised as a permanent hair removal method.

How long between sessions?

For hair removal, 4 to 8 weeks depending on the area, to follow the hair growth cycle. For spots and redness, about 3 to 4 weeks.

Is IPL suitable for every skin type?

It works best on fair to medium skin. Tanned or darker skin needs careful settings, and sometimes another method such as electrolysis. We check this at the consultation.

When is the best time for IPL?

Fall and winter are ideal, since it’s easier to avoid the sun before and after your sessions.

Is IPL a laser?

No. A laser emits a single wavelength; IPL emits filtered light covering several wavelengths, which lets it treat several skin concerns.

Ready to take care of your skin?

Send a request online or give us a call to book a consultation at our Ahuntsic clinic.