Is Excel V+ The Same As IPL?

A common question among our patients is "What is the difference between the Lumenis M22 IPL and the Cutera Excel V Plus Laser?". Often followed by - Which Treatment Should I Use for Which Concern? Today we're going to discuss the differences between these two laser skin treatments.

Both the M22 IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and the Cutera Excel V Plus laser are advanced technologies used in dermatology to address a variety of skin concerns. While they both treat issues like redness, pigmentation, and vascular lesions, they are designed to target different types of concerns and work in complementary ways.

M22 IPL

The M22 IPL is a versatile device that uses broad-spectrum light to target pigmentation and redness in the skin. It is particularly effective for concerns that are more superficial. The light energy is absorbed by the pigment or blood vessels, which are then naturally eliminated by the body.

M22 IPL Is Best for:

  • Sun damage (freckles, age spots, and sunspots)

  • Uneven skin tone

  • Rosacea-related redness

  • Broken capillaries

  • General skin rejuvenation

Ideal candidates: People with lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types I–III) tend to see the best results.

IPL Before and After

Cutera Excel V Plus Laser

The Excel V Plus is a more targeted laser device that uses specific wavelengths (532 nm and 1064 nm) to treat vascular and pigmented lesions. This laser is highly precise, making it ideal for deeper or more stubborn issues, as well as treating conditions that require more power or specificity than IPL can provide.

Excel V+ Is Best for:

  • Facial veins and telangiectasia

  • Port wine stains

  • Cherry angiomas

  • Deeper pigmentation issues like melasma

  • Scars and stretch marks

  • Bruising after cosmetic procedures

  • Spider veins on the legs

Ideal candidates: This laser is safe for a broader range of skin types, including darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI). 

Excel V+ Before and After

Which Treatment Should I Go For?

The choice between the M22 IPL and the Cutera Excel V Plus laser depends on your specific skin concern, the depth of the issue, and your skin type.

  • For redness, rosacea, and broken capillaries: Start with IPL if the concern is mild to moderate. For more severe redness or visible facial veins, the Excel V Plus laser may be a better choice.

  • For pigmentation and sun damage: IPL is the go-to treatment for surface-level pigmentation, but the Excel V Plus is ideal for deeper, stubborn pigmentation or melasma.

  • For vascular lesions or veins: The Excel V Plus laser offers superior results, especially for conditions like spider veins, cherry angiomas, or port wine stains.

  • For overall skin rejuvenation: IPL is perfect for brightening and evening out skin tone, while the Excel V Plus can complement it for more targeted treatments.

Consult with Our Experts

At our clinic, we often combine both technologies to customise treatments based on your unique skin needs. Book a consultation with our dermatology team to determine the best treatment plan for you!