IPL is not ideal for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Don Mehrabi, MD answers: IPL effective treatment for PIH?

I am suffering from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following Fraxel Repair nine months ago. I have been using 4% hydroquinone for 5 months with no improvement. I recently went and saw a laser dermatologist who suggested light IPL treatments. Is this worth a shot? Or will it worsen my condition?


Don Mehrabi, MD
3 months ago
By Don Mehrabi, MD - Beverly Hills Dermatologist

 Thank you for your question.

Unfortunately, IPL is not a standard treatment for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. I would advise a higher percentage of hydroquinone, or even Tri-luma, plus time. Because of your mediterranean background, time will be your best treatment. Sometimes it may take up to 1-1.5 years for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation to resolve in darker-skinned persons.

Hope this helps!

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