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Will Skin Still Tan Afer IPL?

asked 2 years ago by LF in Florida
Latest answer by Sue Ellen Cox, MD
Question viewed 924 times
Tags: cheeks, redness, tanning

I have a mild case of cheek redness and I am considering getting IPL on that area. I live in Florida and I go to the beach at least once a month. Will the treated area still tan after the IPL?

3 answers to Will Skin Still Tan Afer IPL?

+2

IPL and Suntan is a bad combination!

The IPL (intense pulsed light) or BBL (broadband light, a more advanced IPL treatment modality by Sciton) is a wonderful method for reducing that flushed redness/broken capillary appearance. This may develop on the basis of heredity, or on the basis of a skin condition called Rosacea, and as a result of chronic sun exposure. I think it is important to have been protected from all sun exposure for at least three or four weeks before you have an IPL treatment, so it concerns me that you... more
Sandy Martin, MD

Fort Myers Dermatologist
+1

Protect your skin after IPL

Yes, you can tan after IPL -- but more importantly, sun damage and sun pigmentation will continue to occur, and intense sun can reverse the IPL treatment effect. Regular use of sunscreen and sun-protective behaviors are always recommended, before and after IPL treatments.
Sue Ellen Cox, MD

Raleigh-Durham Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Tanning after IPL?

If you are using IPL to rejuvenate your skin and improve redness, it is best to use sunscreens and try not to tan.  However, it is still possible to tan a month later, its just counterproductive. 
Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS

Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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