Lumenis Stellar M22 IPL PhotoRejuvenation + ResurFX — MerLeaux Aesthetics Bay St. Louis
Skin Rejuvenation & Resurfacing
Lumenis Stellar M22 IPL — PhotoRejuvenation + ResurFX
The PhotoFabulous dual-treatment protocol — combining Intense Pulsed Light and fractional laser resurfacing for a complete skin transformation with minimal downtime.
Minimal
Downtime
30–45 Min
Per Session
3–5 Sessions
Recommended Series
Dual
IPL + ResurFX
What Is the Stellar M22 IPL PhotoFabulous Treatment?
The Lumenis Stellar M22 is the gold standard in multi-application light-based aesthetics — a single platform that delivers both IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) PhotoRejuvenation and ResurFX™ fractional non-ablative laser resurfacing. At MerLeaux Aesthetics & Wellness, we combine these two modalities into our signature "PhotoFabulous" protocol — a comprehensive skin renewal experience that addresses tone, texture, and overall radiance in one treatment plan.
IPL PhotoRejuvenation targets the visible signs of sun damage, redness, and uneven pigmentation at the surface level, while ResurFX works deeper — stimulating your skin's own collagen and elastin production to improve texture, soften fine lines, and restore a youthful firmness. Together, they deliver results that neither treatment could achieve alone.
Whether you're dealing with sun spots from years of Gulf Coast living, persistent redness, acne scarring, or simply want a brighter, more even complexion, the PhotoFabulous protocol is designed to meet you where you are — and take your skin further than you thought possible.
How It Works — Two Technologies, One Transformation
Step 1 — IPL PhotoRejuvenation
Intense Pulsed Light
Broad-spectrum light pulses are precisely calibrated to target melanin (pigment) and oxyhemoglobin (redness) in the skin. The light energy is absorbed by these chromophores, breaking up sun spots, age spots, and vascular irregularities — without damaging the surrounding tissue.
The Stellar M22's OPT™ (Optimal Pulse Technology) delivers each pulse with perfectly uniform energy distribution, making it safer and more effective than conventional IPL systems — especially for the diverse skin tones seen across the Gulf Coast community.
Step 2 — ResurFX™ Fractional Laser
Non-Ablative Fractional Resurfacing
ResurFX uses a 1565 nm non-ablative fractional laser to create thousands of microscopic treatment zones deep within the dermis. This controlled micro-injury triggers the skin's natural healing cascade — dramatically increasing collagen and elastin production without removing the outer skin layer.
The result is smoother texture, reduced pore size, softened acne scars, and improved skin firmness — all with significantly less downtime than ablative resurfacing procedures.
The PhotoFabulous Protocol
When performed together in the same session, IPL and ResurFX create a synergistic effect — the IPL clears surface discoloration and redness while ResurFX rebuilds the structural foundation of your skin. Patients consistently describe the combined result as a "reset" for their complexion: clearer, firmer, and more luminous than either treatment could achieve on its own.
Expert Care
Precision in Every Pulse
Every PhotoFabulous session at MerLeaux is performed by our trained aesthetic providers using the full capabilities of the Lumenis Stellar M22 platform. Treatment parameters are customized to your unique skin tone, concern, and goals — ensuring both safety and optimal results.
A thorough skin consultation precedes every treatment series, allowing us to map your concerns and design a protocol that delivers the most meaningful transformation for you.
Tone & Clarity
IPL PhotoRejuvenation
Targets sun spots, age spots, redness, and vascular irregularities using Lumenis OPT™ technology for uniform, safe, and effective results.
Texture & Firmness
ResurFX™ Fractional Laser
Non-ablative 1565 nm fractional resurfacing stimulates deep collagen production to smooth texture, soften scars, and restore youthful skin density.
The Complete Reset
PhotoFabulous Protocol
IPL + ResurFX combined in one session — clearing the surface while rebuilding the foundation for a comprehensive skin transformation.
The Benefits
What to Expect — Pre & Post Treatment
Before Your Treatment
- Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, moisturizer, or sunscreen on the treatment area.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including self-tanner) for 2–4 weeks before treatment.
- Discontinue retinol, retinoids, and exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) for 5–7 days prior.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) if medically appropriate — consult your provider.
- Inform your provider of any recent sun exposure, active skin infections, or changes in medications.
- Stay well-hydrated in the days leading up to your treatment.
After Your Treatment
- Expect mild redness and warmth for a few hours after treatment — this is normal and resolves quickly.
- Sun spots and pigmented lesions may temporarily darken ("coffee grounds" effect) before flaking off over 7–14 days — do not pick or scrub.
- Apply SPF 30+ daily without exception — sun protection is critical to protecting your results.
- Keep skin moisturized and avoid harsh active ingredients (retinol, AHAs) for 5–7 days after ResurFX sessions.
- Avoid direct sun exposure, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
- Makeup can typically be applied the day after treatment; consult your provider for specific guidance.
Treatment Protocol
Sessions
3–5 sessions for optimal results (initial series)
Spacing
Spaced 3–4 weeks apart
Most patients see meaningful improvement after just one session, with the full transformation emerging over a series of 3–5 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart. The IPL component typically requires 3 sessions for complete clearance of pigmentation and redness, while ResurFX results continue to improve for up to 6 months as new collagen matures.
Results Timeline
Immediately After
Mild redness and warmth are normal. Sun spots may appear slightly darker — this is the treatment working. Skin looks refreshed and has a healthy glow.
Days 3–10
Pigmented lesions begin to flake away naturally, revealing clearer skin beneath. Redness and vascular irregularities fade progressively.
Weeks 4–8
Skin tone becomes noticeably more even and luminous. Texture improvements from ResurFX become visible as new collagen begins to form.
Months 3–6
Peak results as collagen remodeling matures. Skin is firmer, smoother, and more radiant. Scars and fine lines are visibly softened.
Long-Term Maintenance
After completing your initial PhotoFabulous series, a single annual maintenance session is typically sufficient to preserve your results and address any new sun damage. Consistent daily SPF use is the single most important factor in maintaining your outcome long-term. Many patients choose to schedule their maintenance session in the fall or winter when sun exposure is lower.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
This treatment may not be right if you:
- Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have an active tan, recent sun exposure, or use self-tanner
- Have a history of keloid scarring
- Are taking photosensitizing medications (consult your provider)
- Have very dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick V–VI) — a consultation is required to assess suitability
Frequently Asked Questions
MerLeaux Aesthetics & Wellness
Book Your Stellar M22 IPL Consultation
Ready to experience the PhotoFabulous transformation? Schedule your complimentary consultation at MerLeaux Aesthetics & Wellness in Bay St. Louis and discover what the Lumenis Stellar M22 can do for your skin.