Is one IPL machine better than the other? (Photo)

Question

I'm looking for a place to get ipl or bbL photofacial treatments and don't know if I should be looking for a specific type of machine? What kind would that be? I'm olive toned and have pigmentation issues as well as wrinkles and sun spots. Also if a spa is reputable, would a Groupon be OK to use for this?

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest you follow up with your provider. Always see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist. Best of luck.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos. As far as choosing the right laser, the technology involved in IPL's and BBL's are nearly the same. Here at our office we use Lumecca, which has 3x more energy than the typical laser. It is never recommended that you use Groupon for medical procedures. If the spa is reputable, it shouldn't have to use Groupon.Best of LuckAnil Shah MD

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Each Doctor will have their preferred laser. For best results, I recommend getting IPL from a board-certified Doctor.  I always combine IPL with microneedling/prp to improve outcomes. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Christopher Crosby, MD, PhD · Answer

IPL is short for Intense Pulsed Light.  There are many different brand name IPL machines made by different companies. In the right hands, they can all produce the same results. Stepping back a bit you should not typically look for a particular machine for treatment. It is best to go to an experienced Dermatologist that has access to multiple devices. You can then discuss your treatment goals, downtime, etc and select the best device for you.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting a picture.  Every doctor will have their favorite laser and / or device.  The most important consideration is experience with your skin type and condition.  The same laser/device in 2 offices will fire differently depending on maintenance, calibration and how well they clean the lens.  Based on your picture and skin type, I'm not sure we would recommend an IPL treatment.  We would probably suggest a safer PicoSure FOCUS laser treatment instead.
Research doctors in your area with the best reviews and multiple treatment options.  If they only have one tool, they try to use it on everyone.  Anyone offering Groupon is probably not going to be in business long term.  One half of the discount Groupon price typically goes to Groupon.  The provider has to try to cover their costs with what is left.  In our experience, anyone offering Groupon is usually just starting with no experience or about to go out of business.  You often get what you pay for... Best of luck.

Manish Khanna, MD, FRCP(C) · Answer

Hello Aimee Broussard,Thanks for your question. It is a very common question that patients have as there are so many devices on the market. Broad band Light by Sciton is the most sophisticated system in the category of IPL or photorejuvenation. It is highly customizable to each patient's needs and skin concerns. Having said that, however, the BBL system doesn't produce the same results in everyone's hands. The parameters, filters, number of passes and so on have the most impact on the success of your treatment. You seem to be a good BBL candidate from your photo. I high recommend looking for a BBL by Sciton and then doing research as to the physician's reputation and track record. Best of Luck, Manish Khanna MD, FRCPC

Katherine Dee, MD · Answer

Great question-- BBL is the name one manufacturer has used for IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). In my opinion, it matters more whether the operator of the device knows what they are doing than what machine they have. IPL machines all use the same type of technology. Yes-- it definitely matters that the place you go to maintains it and replaces the flash lamps when necessary. I would find a place you trust and go with them.
Second: about Groupon. I would not trust any medical office that is using Groupon. The only way to make money through Groupon is to cut corners somewhere. The true cost of buying the machine and maintaining it, paying an expert to operate it, paying for operations of any clinic or spa-- these things are why treatments are expensive. Beware -- IPL is the source of the worst images here on realself-- it can burn people if used improperly. Choose your provider carefully.

Is one IPL machine better than the other? (Photo)

Answers (7)

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