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IPL Burns Still Tender After Three Weeks

Three weeks ago I had IPL for my face and neck. I had it to treat some discolorations around my mouth, 10 spots to be precise. But the procedure burned and scabbed my mouth into a dark brown. It was terrible. It still looks bruised now, and the spots are still red around my mouth. It appears as if I have a red moustache, and I have to use makeup to conceal it and sunscreen as well, even if I don't live in a sunny climate. Will the redness ever go away? It seems like I'm going to have white spots.

Asked 41 months ago by palladino in grandrapids, mn
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+1

IPL and burns

It is very common and in fact desired if the spots turn brown and gradually flake off, but this usually happens within one  weeks time.  It should not be raw but can stay red for some time. It would be important if it is healed to use sun block.
Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

IPL burn marks

Based on your description, it sounds like you are healing fairly well. We have a recovery gel that we use after some laser treatments that acts like a cross between neosporin and vaseline. If the area feels raw, continue to keep it moisturized with neosporin or an equivalent to ensure proper healing. We would worry more if you were describing a deep scab in the area. Deep scabbing after laser treatments can cause hypopigmented marks (white or lighter areas) around the are of the burn.... more
Harold J. Kaplan, MD
Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Gentle Waves, Redness Relief

My advice would be to see a dermatologist for the resolution of this problem. Frankly, with the proliferation of poorly regulated "medi-spas" we are seeing more and more patients with issues like yours. This is not to say your problem happened there, but that is the fact of the matter. A dermatologist can best evaluate the damage and take measures to correct it. Depending on the stage of the problem, we use such treatments as Gentle Waves, Biafine, Calming Cream,... more
Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
Virginia Beach Dermatologist
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