Are light-based skin treatments safe for a person with systemic lupus?

Question

Are light-based skin treatments, such as broadband light (BBL), intense pulse light (IPL), and LED lights (red, blue, or amber) safe for a person with systemic lupus, given that ultraviolet light can trigger flareups of this condition?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

You have asked a tough and interesting question.  Thank you.Exposure to UVA and UVB light can trigger flare-ups and rashes in individuals with SLE.  However, most IPL machines, including the Sciton BBL which we have, do not expose the skin to UV light.IPL emits visible and near infrared IR light, not ultraviolet or UV light.  So, in this sense, it should be safe.

To be sure, I recommend getting a letter of medical clearance from your rheumatologist and seeing two or more licensed
and board-certified providers for a complete evaluation.If you choose to proceed, it may be wise to get a test spot treatment first before proceeding with the treatment of an entire area.

I hope this helps.

Are light-based skin treatments safe for a person with systemic lupus?

Answers (1)

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