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Can IPL Treatment Interfere with Skin Cancer Detection?

asked 11 months ago by Rusty Shackleford in Texas
Latest answer by Steven Bernstein, MD
Question viewed 200 times
Tags: detection, skin cancer

I know IPL treatment does not CAUSE skin cancer, but can it make skin cancer difficult to detect? I have dense freckles over most of my body, and am considering IPL. However, I sunburned frequently as a child and the last thing I want is for my treatment to mask any visible warning signs of skin cancer. I had my entire body looked over by an oncologist, but obviously the risk is still there. Any advice would be sincerely appreciated.

3 answers to Can IPL Treatment Interfere with Skin Cancer Detection?

+2

See a doctor, IPL should not have a negative effect

Based on your information, I always recommend that you see a dermatologist for regular check-ups including cancer screening. However, keratosis, precancerous growths including discoloration from over sun exposure will not be lightened by IPL. You may want to discuss with your doctor an ALA (amino laevulin acid) ointment for these kinds of marks. Whenever you are ready to undergo any esthetic procedure, it is best to have a consultation with a board certified cosmetic doctor or... more
Steven Bernstein, MD

Montreal Dermatologist
+2

IPL can potentially interfere with skin cancer detection

This is particularly true if the skin cancer has pigment. Since IPL treatments decrease pigmentation it may interfere with detection/recognition of skin cancer. I generally recommend avoiding using IPL on moles (nevi). Please have a thorough evaluation by a dermatologist for a mole mapping.
Emily Altman, MD

Short Hills Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Ipl interference with skin cancer detection

I could not agree more with my colleague. It is very important to avoid nevi with any laser therapy. The problem is, what lesions are nevi? A dermatologist who performs these procedures is best in order to document where and what type of growths you have and to biopsy suspicious lesions when necessary. Best, Dr. Malouf
Peter Malouf, DO

Dallas Dermatologist

mytotalskincare.com

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