HOW DOES LUMECCA WORK?
Lumecca has quickly become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for clearer, more even-toned skin. It’s particularly effective for tackling issues like hyperpigmentation, sun damage and vascular lesions, giving skin a smoother, brighter appearance with minimal downtime.
But if you’re thinking “how does Lumecca work?”, and are wondering whether it’s right for you, this blog has the answers you’ll need to make your decision. Read on to learn more.
What Is Lumecca IPL?
Lumecca is an advanced form of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. Unlike traditional IPL devices, Lumecca IPL uses powerful bursts of light energy to target pigment and blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface.
This makes it one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for improving skin tone, reducing redness, and tackling stubborn pigmentation.
What Does Lumecca IPL Treat?
The Lumecca IPL procedure safely and effectively targets:
- Rosacea and general face redness
- Freckles
- Sun damage
- Vascular lesions, including facial telangiectasias and spider veins
- Age spots, red pigmentation, and brown pigmentation
How Does Lumecca IPL Work?
In simple terms, Lumecca IPL works by delivering controlled pulses of intense light into the skin. The light is absorbed by excess pigment and visible blood vessels, which are then broken down and naturally cleared away by the body.
This process targets issues like sun spots, age spots, rosacea, freckles, and small veins. As the skin heals, it starts to appear clearer, brighter, and more even in tone.
How Long Does Lumecca Take to Work?
Many people see visible skin improvements after just one Lumecca session. In the days following treatment, pigmentation may appear slightly darker at first - this is completely normal and a sign that the treatment is working.
Over the next 1–2 weeks, the darker spots naturally fade to reveal clearer and brighter skin. For the best results, most patients benefit from 1–3 sessions, but it entirely depends on individual skin concerns, which differ from person to person.
Benefits of Lumecca IPL
Some of the key benefits of Lumecca treatment include:
- Reduces sun damage, freckles and age spots
- Treats vascular lesions such as spider veins and rosacea
- Improves overall skin clarity and tone
- Promotes general skin rejuvenation by boosting collagen production
- Quick treatment sessions (often less than 30 minutes)
- Minimal downtime compared to other skin treatments
Treatment Areas for Lumecca
Lumecca isn’t just for the face. It can be used on multiple areas of the body, including:
- Face
- Neck
- Chest (décolletage)
- Hands
- Arms and legs
- Head
Who Is Lumecca IPL Suitable For?
Lumecca IPL is a safe and effective option for many individuals, particularly those with lighter to medium skin tones who wish to address visible sun damage, freckles, pigmentation, or vascular lesions. The results are usually more visible when there’s a stronger contrast between your skin and the concern being treated.
Who is Lumecca Not Suitable For?
Lumecca IPL is not recommended for darker skin tones because the light targets melanin, which increases the risk of burns or pigmentation changes. A safer alternative for darker skin is chemical peels.
Lumecca IPL is also unsuitable for people who are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Affected by an impaired immune system
- Living with a history of skin cancer or keloid scarring
- Sensitive to light (photosensitivity) or have epilepsy
- Managing chronic illnesses such as kidney or liver disease
- Have taken Isotretinoin (Accutane®) within the last six months
- Experiencing active skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or open wounds
- Planning treatment over areas with tattoos
What to Expect: Before, During and After Treatment
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect before, during and after Lumecca treatment:
Before Treatment
To prepare yourself for Lumecca treatment, you should avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tan products for at least two weeks. Stop using retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or other exfoliating products 3–5 days before your appointment.
On the day, arrive with clean, makeup-free skin and inform your provider of any medications you’re taking, especially photosensitising drugs.
During Treatment
During a Lumecca treatment, your practitioner will wear protective eyewear and will apply a cooling gel to your skin.
A handheld device is then placed over the skin and delivers pulses of light that target pigment and visible blood vessels. You may feel a warm and snapping sensation, but most people find it quick and comfortable.
After treatment
After your Lumecca treatment, the treated areas may appear slightly red and warm, similar to mild sunburn. Pigmented spots will often appear darker at first before naturally flaking away to reveal clear and fresh skin.
Aftercare and Recovery
Recovery after Lumecca IPL is usually minimal, and most people can return to daily activities straight away. To protect your skin and support healing, you should:
- Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a broad-spectrum SPF daily
- Keep your skin moisturised and hydrated
- Avoid heat and sweat from hot showers, saunas or exercise for 24–48 hours
- Do not pick or scratch treated areas
Potential Side Effects
Mild side effects can occur after Lumecca ILP treatment, but these typically settle within a few days. Side effects may include:
- Temporary redness or swelling
- Darkening of pigmented spots before they fade
- Mild skin sensitivity, especially to UV exposure
If symptoms persist or worsen, make sure to contact your practitioner for personalised guidance.
Expected Results
Most patients notice an improvement in skin tone after their very first Lumecca session, with pigmentation continuing to fade after each additional treatment.
The full effect usually develops within 1–2 weeks following treatment, and results can last long term if proper aftercare is followed, including consistent sun protection.
Potential Complications and Considerations
Lumecca is a safe, FDA-approved and clinically proven treatment. But there are some potential risks to be aware of. These may include:
- Temporary redness and swelling (common)
- Darkening of pigmentation before it fades (common)
- Blistering or changes in skin texture (rare)
Common side effects are usually mild and don’t interfere with your daily life, as they’re a normal part of the healing process after Lumecca treatment. More serious risks are rare and can be minimised by choosing a qualified professional who understands your skin type and medical history.
How Much Does Lumecca Cost?
At Hannah McCoy Clinic, a single 1-hour session of Lumecca Laser IPL costs £250.
The total cost depends on:
- The number of sessions required (most people need 1–3 for best results)
- The treatment area (face, hands, head or multiple areas)
During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin, discuss your goals, and create a unique treatment plan with transparent pricing, so you know exactly what to expect before starting.
For plans over £350, ask us about our flexible payment solutions.
Why Choose Hannah McCoy Clinic for Lumecca IPL?
At Hannah McCoy Clinic, our focus is on safe, effective, and bespoke treatments, including Lumecca IPL, to help you achieve your skin goals. With professional expertise and a friendly, welcoming environment, we’ll help you achieve the more radiant skin you’re looking for (without cutting corners on safety or quality).
All of our practitioners are medically trained to deliver expert care, and we’re equally passionate about raising industry standards by offering specialist aesthetic training courses. So, if you’re looking for a leading Lumecca provider, you’re in safe hands at Hannah McCoy Cinic.
Improve Your Pigmentation at Hannah McCoy Clinic
So, how does Lumecca work? In short, it uses advanced IPL technology to target pigmentation and vascular concerns, leaving your skin clearer and brighter with minimal downtime.
If you’re ready to see what Lumecca could do for your skin, get in touch with us today to book your consultation at one of our four clinic locations at Hannah McCoy Clinic.
Interested in other aesthetic treatments to plump and brighten your skin? We also offer: