No "coffeegrounds" after second IPL Photofacial, is it still working?

Question

I just had my second photofacial yesterday and feel a little disappointed because I see only 1, maybe 2 small coffeeground dark spots on my face (neither of which are in the hyper pigmented spots that I am most concerned about). Since I thought those darker spots meant it was working, and I did have some after the first treatment, does the lack of them this time mean that my spots won't get any lighter?!

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Interesting question you pose. We hear this with IPL/BBL, and also after chemical peels and other treatments. While some treatments may give you minor scabbing and peeling, the absence of these things does not mean there was no benefit. You're more likely to get scabbing/peeling/coffeegrounds when you first start, and less with each treatment as there are fewer or lighter spots left after each treatment. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

You do not have to have coffee grounds to have a good treatment. There are types of brown spots that will coffee ground, and others that will just lighten over time with effective treatments. IPL treats a number of different types of spots, so not all spots will have the same type of post-treatment result. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot 
be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

No "coffeegrounds" after second IPL Photofacial, is it still working?

Answers (2)

More IPL Questions

If I had hives from IPL does this mean I can never get IPL or any heat based treatment in the future?

What should I expect following Lumenis One IPL?

Can I still get IPL even if I am pregnant?

What laser is best for broken capillaries and brown spots on face IPL or Clear Brilliant laser?

Do I need to stop using retin a cream prior to IPL treament?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS