IPL damaged my skin barrier. What can I do to heal and protect my skin?

Question

I had IPL 5 months ago. Since then my skin has been dehydrated and sensitive to everything except for epiceram. I need to find a sunscreen that my skin will tolerate. I tried Elta UV, Skinceutical UV Defense, and Vanicream for Sensitive skin. So far they all sting and make my skin bump up. Should I tough through the pain and use them anyway? Is it pain preventing the skin from healing? Also, is it common for skin to be this sensitive after IPL?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Skin barrier protection is important after IPL treatments and we advise patients to apply Elevase Moisture Booster with Ceramides to help restore the skin barrier after laser or IPL treatments. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I see this very often with poorly done IPL or IPL used on skin types or patients who shouldnt be treated with IPL.  Fractional laser such as clear and brilliant or RF such as sublative are very useful with appropriate skin care.  I suggest seeing a laser expert for an evaluation.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Kenneth W. Alanen, MD · Answer

"Skin sensitivity" is a commonly cited problem. It has many causes but an intrinsic defect in the skin barrier function is usually an important component. The "stinging" is likely due to preservatives / chemicals. I use topical silicone scar gel (Revoderm) for up to three weeks after IPL as it has no preservatives, irritants or allergens. Topical silicone is a time honoured approach for healing damaged skin (especially after surgery and burns) as it assists with barrier repair, helps to minimize itch and discomfort and possibly dermal collagen remodelling. That rationale applies to post-IPL as well as other laser procedures.....Zinc oxide sunscreens are preferable over chemical agents as the former are excellent, long lasting inert agents and the latter can cause redness in persons with "sensitive skin", particularly after procedure. * The statements above are not intended as a replacement for authentic medical advice; an in-person medical visit with a formally trained dermatologist is recommended.*Kenneth W. Alanen MD,Dermatology FRCPC Fellow, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, Mohs' Micrographic SurgeryDermatopathology ABD / ABP, Fellow ASDP

IPL damaged my skin barrier. What can I do to heal and protect my skin?

Answers (3)

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