IPL skin rejuvenation - should it be combined with other treatments?

Question

I am considering photorejuvenation with IPL and also would like to know if it should be combined with other treatment. Like frax laser or pico. I have dull skin and small wrinkles. Also have some sugging in the skin and would like to build some collagen and volume over time. I researched and seems IPL is mainly used for pigmentation, should I then consider another type of laser that is more effective for my concerns like uneven texture and wrinkles? I had a consultation but got more confused

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Hello there, thank you for your question.It can definitely be confusing to know which treatment will treat myriad concerns.- Light treatments (IPL/BBL) are best for hyperpigmentation- Resurfacing treatments (co2, Fraxel, etc) are best for fine lines/uneven texture (they can help with more superficial hyperpigmentation but not deep pigmentation, it can also help increase collagen superficially)- Microneedling with Radio Frequency treatments (Morpheus 8, among others) are best for repairing collagen, building new collagen, remodeling fatty tissue, smoothing wrinkles, etc.I would recommend researching some of these procedures and then consulting with experienced provider(s) to come up with the best solutions that will fit your needs and budget. Best of luck!

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say that before you go the route of the expensive alphabet soup of so-called light and energy-based devices, like IPL and fraxel lasers, etc., perhaps you should think of consulting with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist about the use of HA skinboosters for improving skin hydration, tautness and tone and the use of robust HA lifting fillers for a nonsurgical filler facelift and HA volumizing fillers for improving sagging and jowls. Take note that the hard science to support the use of "bells and whistles" gizmo devices lags woefully behind the heavy marketing hype and social media buzz that surrounds them. So "buyer beware" would be something to keep in mind before wasting your money and time. Hope this helps to keep you a Happy Dane. Best of luck.

Laura Beaty, MD · Answer

Absolutely, we often recommend combining multiple treatments to get better results as many treatments focus on different issues. For collagen, you'll want to consider a radiofrequency or ultrasound treatment to the face, ablative lasers such as erbium are great for small crinkles and sun damage and then IPL decreases remaining sun spots and diminishes redness. Also, many treatments require a series for best results so find a place that offers package pricing.

Tanveer Sheikh, MD · Answer

IPL is often used as the first treatment to get rid of age spots and sun spots. Fraxel laser or CO2 ablative laser are very good for skin rejuvenation. And, for sagging skin, RF Microneedling is the best treatment. We often use multiple machines in combination for the optimum results.

IPL skin rejuvenation - should it be combined with other treatments?

Answers (5)

Answer: Combination treatments give the best results

Answer: Combination treatments give the best results

Answer: Best skin rejuvenation treatments

Answer: Best skin rejuvenation treatments

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IPL skin rejuvenation - should it be combined with other treatments?

Answers (5)

Answer: Combination treatments give the best results

Answer: Combination treatments give the best results

Answer: Best skin rejuvenation treatments

Answer: Best skin rejuvenation treatments

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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.