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Is Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Safe for Dark Complexions?

asked 1 year ago by Kitchener7554
Latest answer by Yoash R. Enzer, MD
Question viewed 333 times
Tags: age 45-54, complexion, dark skin, safety

I have medium brown skin (carribean descent) with rosacea and acne vulgaris. Age 49. Most redness and swelling on nose around nostril area. Swollen red painful bumps. Acne vulgaris clusters of them on cheek and around space over top of mouth area, a few small pimples on forehead. What would work best. Vipeel, or pulsed dye laser. I have been told no IPL due to my dark complexion. Thanks.

4 answers to Is Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment Safe for Dark Complexions?

+2

Pulsed dye laser in darker skinned patients

Any laser is more risky for skin color changes with darker skin, especially if there has been a recent sun exposure history.  That being said, the Candela Vbeam pulsed dye laser has been used safely and effectively in patients with darker skin.  I do warn the patient it will be less effective for any given treatment session, and thus more sessions are necessary.  This is due to the fact that the power is turned down to protect the skin, and the dark pigment competes more with... more
Yoash R. Enzer, MD

Providence Oculoplastic Surgeon
+2

Try other options for skin redness

You may need a topical antibiotic, Solodyn orally, or a low-potency steroid to reduce redness. The Pulse Dye laser can be used safely on Fitz 3-4, but at lower settings. A Test spot is always a good idea before committing to treating darker skinned patients. Dr. G.
Edward J. Gross, MD

Orlando Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Pulsed dye laser for acne and rosacea, darker skin

I routinely use the pulsed dye laser in darker skin types. It is true that you have to be more cautious with your energy settings in dark skin but it is possible to treat and treat safely.  The pulsed dye laser is one of the safest lasers on the market if used properly.  I would suggest that you only go to an experienced laser operator for your treatments.  Rosacea  and red "bumps" often respond quite well to pulsed dye laser treatment, even in darker skin types... more
Jason R. Lupton, MD

San Diego Dermatologist
+2

Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4 and vascular lasers (pulsed dye laser)

Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type is critical for proper laser safety.  Fitzpatrick Skin Types are rated from 1 to 6 and indicate how your skin responds to sun exposure.  Fitzpatrick Skin Type 1 is very white skin, usually freckled, with red or very blond hair, and always burns (never tans) with sun exposure.  Type 2 will usually burn and rarely tan.  Type 3 can burn but also tans easily.  Type 4 is closer to Hispanic or Pacific Rim nationalities and can burn but usually... more
John Burns, MD

Dallas Plastic Surgeon

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