IPL Acne Treatment
Target active acne and inflammation for clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Procedure:
IPL Acne Treatment
Treatment Areas:
Face and select areas of the body
Starting Cost:
$125/session (Face)
Synopsis of Procedure:
A non-invasive light-based treatment that targets acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps improve active breakouts for clearer, calmer-looking skin.
Treatment Time:
15–30 minutes
Technology:
Venus Versa™ AC Dual
Downtime:
Minimal to none
Recommended Sessions:
A personalized series may be recommended
Maintenance Recommended:
As recommended based on your skin and breakouts
What to Expect During
How it Works
What to Expect After
Cost
Benefits
FAQs
What Is IPL Acne Treatment?
IPL Acne Treatment is a non-invasive light-based treatment designed to improve active acne and acne-related inflammation.
The Venus Versa™ AC Dual applicator delivers two types of light at the same time. Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, while red light helps reduce inflammation and support faster healing. The AC Dual applicator is licensed by Health Canada for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
This treatment may be used on the face or other acne-prone areas of the body, depending on your individual needs.
Is IPL Acne Treatment Right for Me?
IPL Acne Treatment may be suitable for patients who experience:
- Active acne breakouts
- Inflamed or red blemishes
- Mild to moderate acne
- Recurring acne on the face or body
- Acne that has not responded well to skincare alone
- A preference for a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime
A consultation is recommended to assess your skin, acne type, medications, and treatment history. IPL may not be appropriate for every skin tone or every type of acne.
Benefits of IPL Acne Treatment
Targets acne-causing bacteria
Helps calm redness and inflammation
Supports the healing of active breakouts
May reduce the frequency of future breakouts
Non-Invasive Treatment
Comfortable Sessions
Minimal Downtime
How Does AC Dual Acne Treatment Work?
The AC Dual applicator uses two complementary wavelengths of light:
Blue Light
Blue light targets compounds produced by acne-causing bacteria. This helps reduce the bacteria associated with active acne breakouts.
Red Light
Red light reaches deeper into the skin to help calm inflammation, reduce visible redness, and support the healing process.
By addressing both acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, the treatment helps improve existing breakouts while supporting clearer-looking skin.
What to Expect During Your IPL Acne Treatment
What to Expect After IPL Acne Treatment
You may notice mild redness, warmth, or sensitivity after treatment, but this usually settles quickly. Most patients can return to their normal activities right away.
Some blemishes may look more noticeable at first. Avoid picking the skin and follow your provider’s aftercare instructions.
Breakouts and inflammation may gradually improve over a series of treatments. Results vary based on your acne, skin, hormones, and treatment plan.
Ready for Clearer, Calmer-Looking Skin?
Discover whether IPL Acne Treatment is right for your skin.
Before & After
Explore real patient transformations and before-and-after results from non-surgical procedures at Clinic 360.
IPL Acne Treatment Cost
The cost of IPL Acne Treatment depends on the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions recommended.
Starting from $125 per session
8 Sessions: $850/ Full Series
16 Sessions: $1200/ Full Series
Package options may be available for patients who would benefit from a complete treatment series. A consultation will help determine the most appropriate plan for your skin.
IPL Acne Treatment FAQs
Does IPL Acne Treatment help with active acne?
Yes. The AC Dual treatment is designed to target acne-causing bacteria while helping reduce the redness and inflammation associated with active breakouts. It is generally best suited for active inflammatory acne rather than acne scars alone.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most patients tolerate the treatment well. You may feel a mild snapping, flicking, or warming sensation during each pulse. The Venus Versa™ system also uses real-time cooling technology to help protect the skin and improve comfort.
How many sessions will I need?
A series of approximately six treatments may be recommended for the best results. Your provider will create a treatment plan based on your skin concerns and goals.
How much downtime is there?
There is little to no downtime. Mild redness or warmth may occur after treatment, but most patients can return to work and regular activities right away.
When will I see results?
Results develop gradually. Some patients notice that inflammation begins to settle after the first few sessions, but a full treatment series is usually recommended for more noticeable improvement.
Can IPL treat acne scars?
AC Dual primarily targets active acne and acne-related inflammation. It does not directly resurface deeper acne scars. Patients with acne scarring may benefit from a separate treatment, such as NanoFractional Skin Resurfacing or Microneedling, once active acne is under control.
Can the treatment be performed on body acne?
Yes. Depending on your skin and treatment needs, IPL Acne Treatment may be used on acne-prone areas such as the chest or back.
Can I wear makeup after treatment?
You may be advised to wait until any redness or sensitivity has settled before applying makeup. Use clean applicators and non-comedogenic products to avoid irritating the treated skin.
What should I avoid before treatment?
Your practitioner may ask you to avoid tanning, excessive sun exposure, certain exfoliating products, and products containing retinoids before treatment. Tell your provider about all medications and skincare products you currently use.
Do I still need to use acne skincare products?
IPL may be used as part of a broader acne-management plan. Your provider may recommend continuing or adjusting your skincare routine depending on your skin’s needs. Do not stop prescribed acne medication without speaking to the prescribing healthcare professional.
Are the results permanent?
IPL Acne Treatment can help manage active acne, but it cannot prevent every future breakout. Hormones, stress, skincare habits, medications, and other factors may continue to affect acne. Maintenance treatments and an appropriate home-care routine may help support longer-lasting results.