If your friend did not have her procedure done by a dermatologist I would recommend seeing one. As I have commented previously on this site, with the proliferation of so-called medi-spas, we are beginning to see more and more of these situations. (Recently, one of my patients told me... more
Are marks left after IPL permanent?
One of my friends had her arms treated with IPL, and she had marks all over the area after the treatment. The marks were itching for 4 days and were purple in color. After one week, they still look bumpy and horrible. She has very sensitive skin.
Is it possible that the marks will be permanent, or will they heal normally? Are there creams or other procedures that would help her recover faster? Thank you!
Comments
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156 posts
16 Nov 2008
IPLs and Lasers both can lead to temporary discoloration and/or permanent scarring. The reaction you are describing sounds concerning and should be evaluated by the medical director of the facility that your friend was treated at. The good news is that our bodies have an amazing way of healing itself and fading the pigmentation that results from trauma whether it be from IPLs, burns, injuries, surgical scars, etc. Unfortunately, this process may take up to six months. What stays beyond that benchmark is usually considered permanent. There are excellent topical products that facilitate fading as well as class IV medical lasers. Regardless of whatever is decided, one must be diligent in wearing sunscreen and protecting these areas from sun exposure until completely resolved. When finding a practitioner, do your research and make certain that your physician or nurse is properly trained and experienced with the technology and your skin type. Lori Haney, RN, CMLSO
81 posts
17 Nov 2008
Unfortunately the answer is a resounding yes. Some of the worst burns I have seen are from inappropriately used IPL devices. Fortunately, it sounds more like your friend has a mild first degree burn rather than something that will cause permanent damage. First degree burns look dark red or purple after about a day or so and can take several weeks or even months before the discoloration goes away. Second degree burns involve blistering (a separation of the epidermis from the dermis) and can also take several weeks to months to completely resolve. Usually nothing more than occlusive ointment (Aquaphor or Bacitracin) is needed. I would advise your friend to be diligent about using a zinc oxide and titanium dioxides based sunscreen. Also, tell her to try and avoid a lot of sun exposure so she does not get post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin over the treated area) that would compound the problem. She also needs to follow-up with her provider to make sure they understand that they need either more cooling during the treatment or to turn down the energy being delivered.