Stellar M22™ IPL is the multi-platform system from the inventors of IPL. Available at alestetics® Zurich for treating pigmentation spots, rosacea, acne and PIH — featuring precise sub-pulsing technology for safe, comfortable results.
Over 150 clinical studies. Over 30,000 systems worldwide. Developed by Lumenis — the company with over 60 years of pioneering experience in aesthetic medicine and the inventor of the original IPL system. The treatment of choice during the colder months.
Who is it for?
Does this sound familiar?
Stellar M22™ covers two very different topics. Read the points that apply to you — the rest are not relevant to you.
- You have pigmentation or sun damage and want a more even, clearer complexion.
- You have rosacea or redness on your face that doesn't go away on its own.
- You have active acne or want to even out your complexion after the summer.
- Your skin looks sallow and uneven — a sign of photoageing — but you don’t want to resort to invasive treatments just yet.
- You have stretch marks on your stomach, thighs, bottom or arms — following pregnancy, growth or weight changes.
- You have acne scars or uneven skin texture that you want to treat in specific areas.
What is Stellar M22™?
Two technologies, one device
Stellar M22™ is a treatment platform from Lumenis — the company that invented IPL. Two technologies operate side by side on a single device: IPL for skin tone (pigmentation, redness, rosacea) and fractional ResurFX™-Lasers for skin texture (stretch marks, scars, skin texture).
We choose the treatment based on your skin type, not according to a set formula. Sometimes it’s just light therapy, sometimes just laser treatment — and in suitable cases, both in a single session.
Manufacturer: Lumenis →
Indications
What we treat with it
Two modules, two applications. IPL stays on the surface, whilst ResurFX™ penetrates deep into the skin.
IPL — Skin tone
- Sun damage and an uneven complexion — for a more even complexion
- Rosacea and redness — fine, superficial dilated blood vessels on the face are visibly reduced over the course of the treatment
- Active acne — light treatment for inflamed areas
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following acne
- Fine lines and photoageing — Photorejuvenation
- Pigmentation on the décolletage and hands
ResurFX™ — Skin texture
- Stretch marks on the stomach, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, knees, chest and back — the main indication
- Acne scars, scattered
- Uneven skin texture
Experience shows that fresh, reddish stretch marks respond better to treatment than old, white ones.
Technology & Differentiation
How the two modules work
IPL — intense pulsed light
Using interchangeable filters (XPL™, OPT®, MSP™) in the 515–1200 nm range, the light acts selectively on melanin and oxyhaemoglobin — that is, on the pigment and on the fine blood vessels responsible for redness and rosacea. No radio frequency, no HIFU. Continuous cooling protects the skin’s surface.
ResurFX™ — fractional laser (1565 nm)
Non-ablative, with CoolScan™ cooling. The laser creates tiny microzones in the skin that stimulate tissue regeneration. The skin between the microzones remains intact — hence the relatively short downtime.
What sets us apart
Lumenis invented IPL — we use the original, not a copy. And because both modules run on a single device, pigmentation and skin texture can be treated in a single session. Lumenis refers to the combination of IPL and Vivace® RF microneedling as SmoothGlo™ →.
Clinical trials of ResurFX™ have shown a visible improvement in the appearance and colour of stretch marks in the majority of patients treated. Your results will depend on your age and the type of stretch marks you have.
Combinations
Rarely alone. This is how we install Stellar M22™.
The result comes from the combination of these factors. IPL targets the tone, whilst other treatments address the texture and regeneration — in the correct order.
Same meeting
- Vivace® RF Microneedling — IPL first, then Vivace®. Skin tone and texture in a single session (SmoothGlo™ principle).
- ResurFX™ — IPL for pigmentation, ResurFX™ for skin texture.
- NCTF® · PolyPhil™ · Dermadrop TDA® — Active ingredients that work in the light, when the skin is ready to absorb them.
Before that
- Volnewmer® RF · BTL Exilis® Face — Energy comes before light (golden rule: RF first).
After that / at a distance
- BioRePeel® · PRX-T33® — at least a week apart.
- HydraFacial™ — a two-week interval.
Procedure
This is how your treatment will work
Preparation & Plan
We’ll take a close look at your skin — using the AURA 3D skin analysis if you’d like. We’ll then determine which treatment module is best for you, check for any contraindications and identify the treatment areas. Freshly tanned skin is not suitable for IPL.
Treatment
You’ll be given safety goggles, and the area will be cooled. IPL uses short bursts of light — a warm flick, nothing more. ResurFX™ passes over the area in a single pass, taking 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the area.
Results & Maintenance
Treated pigmented areas initially darken before flaking off; any redness subsides over the course of the treatment. For rosacea, two to three IPL sessions per year help maintain the results. SPF 50 is essential during this phase.
Prices
What you can expect
Stellar M22™ IPL
Stellar M22™ ResurFX™
What works best for you depends on your skin type and condition. You can find a full overview at Prices page →
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Stellar M22™ IPL and ResurFX™?
For which skin types is Stellar M22™ IPL suitable?
Does the treatment hurt?
How many sessions will I need?
What happens to the pigmentation marks after treatment?
Can I combine IPL and ResurFX™ in a single session?
Under what circumstances is treatment not possible?
How long will the downtime last?
How effective is ResurFX™ for stretch marks?
Next step
Whether it’s skin tone or skin texture — we’ll find the right solution.
Come along for a free skin analysis. Together, we’ll see whether IPL, ResurFX™ or both are right for your skin — no pressure, just a clear plan.
This treatment is for you if …
Stellar M22™ IPL is the treatment of choice if you want to improve skin discolouration such as pigmentation spots or redness. It is safe for Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV; for darker skin types (V–VI), we will advise you on an individual basis.
You have pigmentation spots or sun damage — age spots, freckles, summer pigmentation — and want a more even complexion.
You have redness, couperose or rosacea with visible broken capillaries and want your complexion to look calmer and more even.
You have active acne or post-acne hyperpigmentation (PIH) and are looking for a treatment that tackles both at the same time.
You want to reduce photo-ageing and fine lines — IPL stimulates skin renewal from within.
You are planning a structured course of treatment under the Stellar M22™ Commitment Plan over several months.
You want medically proven technology backed by over 150 clinical studies and with over 30,000 systems installed worldwide.
What Stellar M22™ IPL does for your skin.
Eight areas of application in which the Stellar M22™ IPL plays a central role at alestetics® — from pigmentation spots and PIH to rosacea, acne treatment and photorejuvenation.
Pigment spots and sun damage
IPL specifically breaks down excess melanin — the complexion appears more even over the course of the treatment.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Pigment changes caused by acne inflammation are reduced using precise light energy.
Rosacea and couperose
IPL targets the haemoglobin in dilated blood vessels — redness and visible spider veins are reduced over the course of the treatment.
Active acne
IPL reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation and acts on the sebaceous glands — 75% clinical improvement observed in the study after one month.
Photo-ageing and fine lines
Data from a multi-centre study show that 90% reduces wrinkles after 6 months of combined IPL and ResurFX therapy.
Visible spider veins and telangiectasia
87% in patients shows 75–100% clearance of vascular lesions on the face following a clinical trial.
Photo-rejuvenation and skin toning
IPL stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibres, resulting in a visible improvement in skin quality.
SmoothGlo combination strategy
Inspired by the SmoothGlo protocol, we combine IPL with Vivace® RF — two mechanisms of action for maximum skin quality results.
What Stellar M22™ is.
Stellar M22™ is the multi-application platform from Lumenis — the company that invented the original IPL system over 60 years ago. With Over 150 clinical trials and Over 30,000 systems installed Stellar M22™ is one of the most clinically well-documented devices in the field of aesthetics worldwide.
At alestetics®, we use two modules of the platform: the IPL module (Intense Pulsed Light, technically XPL — Expert Pulse Light) and the ResurFX module (fractional non-ablative 1565 nm laser). The IPL module operates with 8 expert filters and 3 light guides — combined with the patented Sub-pulsing technology (MSP™), which emits light energy in several short micro-pulses rather than a single long pulse. The result: safe, comfortable treatments suitable for all skin types. The Glide Mode enables treatments with up to 4 Hz refresh rate — precise coverage of larger areas.
We use Stellar M22™ as Strategic skin quality treatment for our pre-ageing clients — as a standalone treatment or combined with Vivace® RF microneedling in the SmoothGlo-inspired protocol. Each session is recorded on Skin type, season and destination tailored — settings, intensity and focus areas are individually adjusted. We carry out the treatment only in autumn and winter when the skin is not actively exposed to UV light. In the Stellar M22™ Commitment Plan (CHF 1,200 / 3 sessions / 3 months) we consistently achieve results for PIH, uneven skin tone and acne.
Verified product information: Stellar M22™ by Lumenis — official manufacturer’s website
Three reasons why Stellar M22™ works for us.
IPL stands or falls on the quality of the device, the rigour of the protocol and the strategy within which it is embedded. Three things make all the difference at alestetics®.
Stellar M22™ comes from the inventor of the original IPL.
Lumenis has been 60+ years the pioneer of aesthetic medicine and the inventor of the original IPL system. Stellar M22™ is the latest evolution of this technology, featuring Over 150 clinical trials and Over 30,000 systems installed worldwide. At alestetics®, we have deliberately chosen this device because clinical evidence and regulatory safety are non-negotiable.
Sub-pulsing for safe, comfortable treatments.
The patented MSP™ Sub-Pulsing Technology emits the light energy in several short micro-pulses rather than a single long pulse. This enables gentle treatments suitable for all skin types — more precise, more comfortable and with clinically proven safety. The 8 filters and 3 light guides allow us to tailor the settings precisely to the specific indication and season.
SmoothGlo protocol with Vivace® RF.
Inspired by SmoothGlo Protocol we combine Stellar M22™ IPL with Vivace® RF Microneedling — two mechanisms of action in a coordinated strategy: IPL for uneven skin tone, Vivace® for texture and firmness. The perfect combination when your skin needs both.
Stellar M22™ IPL using the SmoothGlo protocol.
Stellar M22™ IPL is a standalone skin-quality treatment — it can be strategically combined with Vivace® RF (inspired by the SmoothGlo protocol) and with booster treatments such as NCTF®, Dermadrop and PolyPhil™ in the same session.
Combinations
-
MIT Vivace® RF Microneedling (Inspired by SmoothGlo)
The best combination for pre-ageing. IPL for uneven skin tone, Vivace® for skin texture and firmness. Two treatment mechanisms in a single, tailored session.
-
AFTER IPL — NCTF® 135 HA
IPL first, followed by NCTF® as an active ingredient layer to consolidate the results and improve skin quality, all in the same session.
-
AFTER IPL — Dermadrop TDA®
A transdermal layer of active ingredients to soothe the skin and nourish the skin matrix immediately after IPL treatment.
-
AFTER IPL — PolyPhil™ polynucleotides
Polynucleotides as a regenerative layer following IPL — soothe and rebuild the skin matrix.
At every meeting
-
Custom-made mask
After every Stellar M22™ session — soothes and aids recovery.
-
Dermalux™ LED + Head Massage
LED phototherapy immediately after the treatment soothes the skin. The head massage rounds off the experience.
-
SPF 50
At the end of each session — daily sun protection is absolutely essential after IPL.
Not the same session
-
SkinPen® Microneedling (2 weeks apart)
Avoid light energy treatments following mechanical microneedling — the skin barrier must be intact.
-
Volnewmer® RF (recommended separately)
In exceptional cases where time is tight, this can be done in the same session — however, we recommend separate sessions to ensure the best skin response and to focus on the specific active ingredient.
-
BioRePeel® / PRX-T33® (2 weeks apart)
Avoid exposing exfoliated skin to light energy — the skin barrier must be intact.
A clear complexion with Stellar M22™ — Autumn and Winter Commitment Plan.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis + plan
Stellar M22™ + NCTF® in a single session
Stellar M22™ + Vivace® (SmoothGlo)
Stellar M22™ + NCTF® in a single session
1–2 sessions per year in autumn and winter
With the Stellar M22™ Commitment Plan (CHF 1,200), you receive 3 sessions at optimal intervals. Add-ons can be booked separately for each appointment: Neck + CHF 150, décolleté + CHF 250, neck + décolleté + CHF 300, hands + CHF 150.
Here’s how your Stellar M22™ session works.
Skin analysis and personalised treatment plan.
A brief discussion about your skin type according to the Fitzpatrick scale, your skin concerns (pigmentation, rosacea, acne, PIH) and the current season. We select the filters and settings based on your individual assessment. For first-time clients, we recommend the free AURA 3D skin analysis beforehand. Important: No active tanning for 2–4 weeks before the session — no sun, no self-tanner.
IPL sub-pulsing — precise, gentle, comfortable.
The skin is cleansed. The IPL handpiece is guided over the treatment areas — using the one selected for your condition and skin type Filters and settings. You feel the light pulses as a gentle A tingling sensation or a feeling of warmth — comfortable to undergo thanks to sub-pulsing and integrated skin cooling. Followed by a personalised Mask, Dermalux™ LED phototherapy, relaxing Head massage and SPF 50.
Pigment spots get darker before they fade.
You are leaving the clinic without significant downtime. Typical symptoms include slight redness or minimal swelling, which usually subside within disappear within 1–2 days. With pigment treatments, the treated pigmented patches will fade over the next 3–7 days darker before they flake off and disappear — that’s part of how it works, so there’s no need to worry. SPF 50 every day is a must, especially after IPL. Make-up can be applied on the same day, but it is not recommended. Sauna, steam room: avoid intense heat for 24–48 hours. The initial improvements are visible straight away; the full results become apparent over the course of the treatment.
What clients want to know before their first Stellar M22™ session.
Frequently asked questions about Stellar M22™ IPL at alestetics® — price, season, safety and combinations.
How much does Stellar M22™ cost at alestetics®? +
A Stellar M22™ IPL treatment for the A facial costs CHF 500 (60 mins) — including a personalised mask, Dermalux™ LED phototherapy and a head massage.
Add-ons can be booked separately for each appointment:
- Neck + CHF 150
- cleavage + CHF 250
- Neck and décolletage + CHF 300
- Hands + CHF 150
In the Stellar M22™ Commitment Plan you will receive 3 sessions for CHF 1,200 — designed to fit in with a typical 3-month bulking programme.
How many sessions will I need? +
The standard protocol at alestetics® is 3–6 sessions at intervals of 3–4 weeks — the exact number depends on your skincare goal.
In the Stellar M22™ Commitment Plan You will receive 3 sessions at optimal intervals for CHF 1,200. If your condition is more severe (e.g. multiple pigmentation spots or severe rosacea), we will tailor the treatment plan to include 4–6 sessions.
We draw up a detailed treatment plan following the free AURA 3D skin analysis.
Can I do Stellar M22™ in the summer? +
No. We stock the Stellar M22™ IPL only in autumn and winter The reason: IPL is a light-based treatment that targets melanin and haemoglobin. A tan or skin exposed to UV rays alters the response to treatment and increases the risk of pigment changes.
Before each session, the following applies: No sun or self-tanning products for 2–4 weeks. After the meeting, SPF 50 must be used every day, so that the result remains stable and no new pigmentation spots appear.
That’s not caution — it’s strategy. A safer season yields better results.
Do pigment spots get darker after treatment — is that normal? +
Yes, that is normal and part of how it works. IPL heats the melanin in the skin — the treated pigmented spots are 3–7 days darker and can look like tiny specks of coffee grounds.
These points then overlap from, without having to scrub or exfoliate it. After 1–2 weeks, the skin underneath will look more even.
Important: do not scratch, do not peel, do not rush — natural shedding ensures the best results.
Is Stellar M22™ suitable for all skin tones? +
Stellar M22™ IPL is suitable for Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV — that is, fair to medium olive skin. In darker skin types V–VI We assess suitability on a case-by-case basis during the consultation — IPL can cause pigmentary reactions in people with very dark skin.
That is why we carry out a thorough Determining skin type using the Fitzpatrick scale and carry out a seasonal analysis. This is the only way we can choose the right filters and settings.
What is the difference between IPL and laser? +
IPL and laser are both light-based treatments, but they work in different ways:
- IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) works with broad-spectrum light at different wavelengths. Filters can be used to tailor the light to specific conditions — pigmentation, blood vessels, acne. Ideal for Treatments for skin quality over large areas.
- Laser operates at a single, precise wavelength. It has a more targeted effect — for example, the ResurFX laser in the Stellar M22™ is fractional non-ablative for structural skin renewal.
At alestetics®, we use both modules of the Stellar M22™ platform — the IPL module as the main treatment and the ResurFX module for specific structural conditions.
What is the SmoothGlo-inspired protocol with Vivace®? +
The SmoothGlo Protocol is an international treatment approach that IPL with RF microneedling combined in a single strategy — two mechanisms of action that reinforce one another.
At alestetics®, we apply this principle Stellar M22™ IPL with Vivace® RF Microneedling:
- IPL Treats skin discolouration — pigmentation, redness and acne-causing bacteria.
- Vivace® RF Addresses skin texture and firmness — pores, fine lines, skin tightening.
The result: a more even skin tone and firmer skin texture as part of a coordinated treatment strategy.
What clinical data is available for Stellar M22™? +
Stellar M22™ is equipped with Over 150 clinical trials one of the best-documented aesthetic devices on the market. Three verified studies:
- Acne (Chen et al., 2019): 75% of the patients showed excellent or good results one month after IPL treatment for inflammatory acne.
- Photo-ageing (Knight & Kautz, 2018): 90%: patients showed an improvement in wrinkles after 6 months for combined IPL + ResurFX therapy on Fitzpatrick skin types II–IV.
- ResurFX in photo-damage (Friedmann et al., 2016): A statistically significant reduction in the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle and Elastosis Score after 3 ResurFX treatments, with high patient satisfaction.
This clinical evidence is why we at alestetics® have made a conscious decision to use the Stellar M22™.
When is Stellar M22™ not an option? +
Stellar M22™ IPL is not suitable for:
- Melasma — this is a separate indication and requires a different approach (no IPL)
- Active tanning or use of self-tanning products (every 4–6 weeks)
- Pregnancy-related pigmentation
- Light-sensitive medicines (e.g. certain antibiotics)
- Isotretinoin treatment (6-month interval)
- Active herpes infection or skin infections in the treatment area
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Very dark skin (Fitzpatrick V–VI) — individual assessment during the consultation
- Female patients under the age of 18
For melasma, we recommend other treatments from our range — please ask us about them during your AURA 3D skin analysis.
Book your Stellar M22™ session at Zurich Main Station.
60 minutes. Multi-platform treatment from Lumenis — the inventors of IPL. Over 150 clinical studies, sub-pulsing for safe and comfortable results. Available only in autumn and winter. If you’d like a consultation first, the AURA 3D skin analysis is completely free of charge.
Customer testimonials
What our customers say
Verified booking reviews
5,0
590 verified Fresha reviews
Every review is based on a verified booking made via Fresha – authentic, tamper-proof and free from fake profiles.
View all Fresha reviewsLoyalty in customers’ own words
„Perfect, as always." – time and again. For years.
Filter reviews
What our customers say
„Aleksandra was very professional, warm and friendly. She gave me excellent advice on what I needed, even though I’d booked a completely different treatment. All the risks and considerations were clearly explained, and I never felt like I was being pressured into anything. A great consultation… I’ve found my new go-to place for treatments.'
„A huge thank you to Alex for her advice. Her expertise and her calm, professional manner won me over straight away. She takes her time, tailors her advice to individual needs and gives fantastic tips for a home skincare routine. It’s exactly the kind of consultation you’d hope for – knowledgeable, warm and genuine."
„I really appreciate that there’s no pressure to buy extra services or products – just genuine, high-quality care. After nearly a year of visiting Alestetics, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Alex has been professional, kind and attentive throughout my visits. I highly recommend them!"
„I love coming here; it always feels like I’m going to a spa. They don’t try to sell me anything and are very open about what the treatments can (and cannot) do for me. They take health and wellbeing very seriously and always make sure I know how to look after myself outside the clinic as well."
„Alex is amazing! She listens to what the customer needs and explains the process. She is very knowledgeable and also makes recommendations. For me, her fluency in English is extremely helpful when we communicate."
„I had a Vivace treatment combined with PRX-T33. The appointment went smoothly; the staff were very professional and efficient. The clinic is close to HB and centrally located. Alexandra was very nice and friendly. I’ll definitely be coming back!"
„I had RF microneedling and EXILIS treatments on my stomach at Alestetics and am extremely pleased with the results. In fact, the results are much more noticeable than I had expected. Katia is highly professional, very attentive and incredibly warm. I highly recommend her!"
„I spent a long time looking for the right salon for me and I’m absolutely delighted that I chose alestetics®. The salon is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean and hygienic. Thanks to the team’s caring, friendly and professional manner, I felt very comfortable and safe throughout the entire treatment."
„I’ve been to Alestetics several times now. Before the treatment, they carried out an Aura skin analysis, during which they explained my skin condition to me in great detail — it was incredibly professional and transparent. Katia, Antonia and Alex are incredibly caring, knowledgeable and professional. You never feel like 'just another customer'."
„Today I had my first laser treatment (4 areas) with Katia and I felt completely at ease. She was particularly sensitive to my needs, as I can be a bit sensitive to pain at times. Her friendly manner made the treatment a really pleasant experience!"
„Katia is simply brilliant at her job! I’ve now had my third laser treatment. As I’m quite sensitive to pain, I really appreciate the fact that Katia always distracts me with a friendly chat. I feel very well looked after."
„I had a wonderful experience at the aesthetics clinic with Katia. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made sure I felt confident throughout. I would highly recommend Katia for high-quality and truly personalised treatment."
„Review of the BTL Exilis treatment. I’m an active man and work out regularly, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get rid of that stubborn belly fat. I noticed a difference after just the first treatment. After several sessions, the difference was clearly visible."
„All the treatments here are sensational. This wellness haven truly lives up to its reputation. It’s centrally located — right next to Zurich main station — and the atmosphere at the spa is serene and calm. Every visit to Alestetics is my monthly treat and feels like a mini-break."
„I’ve had several Endospheres treatments at alestetics. Alex and Katia are very professional, but also very friendly and caring. They’ve always taken my needs and wishes into account (avoiding the tummy after pregnancy). I can’t recommend them highly enough!"
„I had five EXILIS treatments with Katia at alestetics®. The service was excellent – Katia is very professional and warm, and explains everything in detail. You feel at ease with her straight away. I’d definitely recommend her!"
„I feel understood, and they're absolutely lovely and professional!!"
„I had an excellent experience with the Icoone treatment. Antonia was simply fantastic – very professional, warm and incredibly friendly. She took plenty of time and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire treatment."
„I visit Alestetics regularly for Hydrafacial and microneedling treatments. The team are really friendly and flexible. The location is perfect, and the studio is clean and comfortable. After three treatments, my skin feels much clearer and my pores are slightly smaller."
„I feel completely at ease with Alex and her team! From the welcome to the treatments, the hygiene and the atmosphere: everything is simply always perfect. I originally came across Alestetics because of their laser treatments, but now I also go there for my facials."
„The treatments at Alestetics have worked wonders on my sensitive skin. With Katia, you’re in absolutely professional hands!"
„I'm absolutely delighted to have found this clinic in Zurich where, after just four sessions, I've seen amazing results! The girl who looks after me, Katia, is so lovely; she put me at ease right from the start and is incredibly professional!"
„My favourite salon in Zh! Top-notch service, lovely welcome tea, friendly staff, helpful consultations, and I left feeling happy and glowing, looking gorgeous after my treatments. Thanks Katia, Alexandra, and the Alestetics team – one love!"
„At first, I was really impressed by the Endospheres therapy. But the Icoone treatment has surpassed everything: it massages the skin gently and painlessly from head to toe. I started the treatments less for firmer skin and more for my health. The team are like best friends to me."
„Very friendly and professional staff, who take the time to carry out a skin analysis and offer valuable advice! I highly recommend it. It was a pleasure to have the AURA 3D skin analysis and to discuss my daily skincare routine."