If IPL laser is not used directly on permanent makeup, will it still turn black? (photos)

Question

I have a white round scar that I got covered with 'permanent makeup'. I would like to use IPL laser to bring down the redness around the scar. Is it safe to use the laser around the scar, not directly on top? I'm afraid of the scar turning black from the iron oxide in the tattoo. Thank you!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Light energy can travel to remote parts of surrounding skin. Permanent makeup may absorb the light energy and get injured if precautions are not taken. The conservative approach...go to a specialist.Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your
question.It is not recommended to have treatments of IPL preformed over permanent tattooed surfaces. You may run the risk of oxidizing the ink in the tattoo or even worse you could burn and potentially scar again. You can have IPL done on your face, just be sure to completely avoid the area that has been tattooed. To be sure what is best for you, see two
or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to
make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have
treatment.

I hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

IPL should not be used on the makeup but can be used around it.  However, pulsed dye laser or Excel V are the "gold standard" treatments for red and is a better option for you.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jennifer Greer, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, IPL can be used on someone who has permanent makeup as long as that area is avoided. So if you have eyeliner tattooing and want to have IPL on your face, that would be safe. But if your goal is to treat redness directly surrounding the area of permanent makeup, that may be too close, and you do risk the permanent makeup oxidizing.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for posting a high definition picture as it helps with guidance.It is not recommended that IPL be performed over permanent makeup and the area should be shielded during such treatments. We come across this a lot in our practice a permanent makeup is becoming more popular and more widely available. I would explore other technologies to treat the 'red' areas around this site with long pulsed lasers.

If IPL laser is not used directly on permanent makeup, will it still turn black? (photos)

Answers (5)

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