I have PIH and use AHA/Differin w/ improvement on a regular basis. I tried 4% hydroquinone w/ minimal success (x3 months) and suggested an IPL. Should I stop using Differin/other exfoliants prior to my session and for how long? Also, I understand HQ “preps” the skin and can be good before an IPL. To my knowledge, HQ should be used in cycles (3 months on and 3 months off) to prevent paradoxal hyperpigmentation. I have not used HQ for x2 months, should I start using it again prior to my session?
Answers (2)
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November 6, 2015
Answer: IPL and post inflammatory hyperpigmenation
Jason Emer, MDDermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
Being patient can be hard to do after IPL treatment! I recommend to wait until day 7 and then it is ok to use exfoliating clarisonics and even a microdermabrasion treatment to help freshen up the treated skin and slough off the treated skin. Continue with moisturizing as well!
You can treat with both of these at the same treatment session, actually. In my practice, we offer Triniti laser packages, which include a series of IPL, RF, and diode treatments done at the same time. Each works differently on the skin.
