IPL laser hair removal for hyperpigmentation?

Question

Does IPL laser hair removal kill two birds w one stone? Removing hair and does it help with existing ingrown hair dark spots?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Amp.  Good question.  Generally speaking, we let patients know that brown spots from ingrown hairs dramatically decrease after 3-4 visits because the coarse dark hair that causes the ingrown problems is the first hair to be removed with laser hair removal.  In cases where patients do not want to wait for the permanent hair removal, we step in with hydroquinone bleaching products.As an aside, if your skin gets brown spots from ingrown hair, then IPL may not be the best technology for permanent hair removal.  IPL is abroad spectrum of light and much less effective than Diode, Alexandrite or Yag lasers for permanent hair removal.  And with medium to dark skin types, IPL carries a much higher risk for side effects from hair removal treatments.  Best of luck.

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.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Dark spots need a combination approach. Lasers help pigmentation in addition to a combination of Cosmelan,  Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

IPL is better for hyperpigmentation than it is for hair removal. I prefer to use radiofrequency hair removal to specifically target the follicle, then I do a quick IPL pass to remove any additional hairs. IPL alone will work a slight amount but not as well as true laser or RF hair removal. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG: @drjohnsonlee

IPL laser hair removal for hyperpigmentation?

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