IPL on Arms at a setting of 22 1 month ago, and have yet to get coffee grind or flake, is this normal?

Question

I had IPL at a setting of 22 on my arms over 4 weeks ago, and they still have yet to coffee grind off or to flake off at all. I am wondering if this is normal or if there is anything I can do to speed up the process. The marks are darker but do not look anywhere close to flaking off.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Laser results can take several weeks to settle and sometimes take a series of treatments to get improvement. I usually recommend a combination of treatments with IPL for best results. I suggest adding microneedling/prp and skin care to improve skin quality and tone once healed. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question allsn30. I understand your concern.
IPL is a great treatment for facial rejuvenation. Sometimes a coffee ground appearance is apparent after a treatment. This is the case when the pigment is close to the surface. If the pigment is deeper in the skin, the skin absorbs it on its own and this change is not seen. It is most important to look for results based on photographs. We do this by taking before pictures and pictures again after a series of 6 monthly treatments. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Raminder Saluja, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is hard to know settings for your skin type or what type of IPL was utilized.  With that being said, IPL on the arms and legs (distal extremities), can often times take longer for the "coffee ground look" to shed.  Typically by 4 weeks there is shedding.  I would assist with a little exfoliation now that it is 1 month post and would touch base with your provider.  Most likely a second treatment may be needed but we typically wait until summertime is over prior to doing additional IPL on a distal extremity as tanned skin can influence the settings.   Hope that helps!

IPL on Arms at a setting of 22 1 month ago, and have yet to get coffee grind or flake, is this normal?

Answers (3)

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IPL on Arms at a setting of 22 1 month ago, and have yet to get coffee grind or flake, is this normal?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.