Does IPL increase photo-sensitivity post-treatment? (photos)

Question

I am 26 and received IPL on my shoulders to fade brown spots. Results were positive but not significant. Four months later I went on vacation. While diligent about applying SPF 60, I was sun exposed. I now have more brown spots than pre-IPL. Is this because IPL increased my photo-sensitivity? No increase in spots on my face where I've never had IPL. I have light skin but tan dark (see picture). Any suggestions for treatment? For my lifestyle, complete sun avoidance is unrealistic. Thanks.

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

IPL can increase photosensitivity immediately after treatment, but not four months later.  We always advise avoiding the sun and being diligent about applying broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing following treatment. Perhaps your sunscreen only provided UVB protection, as the SFP number only refers to UVB protection.  For best coverage, the sunscreen label should state both UVA and UVB coverage.  I doubt the IPL had much to do with your increase in brown spots, though. Brown spots can appear after sun exposure whether you’ve had an IPL treatment or not. Perhaps there is another reason, for example, certain medications can cause photosensitivity like tetracycline or sulfur antibiotics. While it may be unrealistic to avoid the sun entirely, being very diligent about reapplying sunscreen every few hours, making sure your sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays, making sure not to stay in the sun for too long, and wearing hats and protective clothing when you know you’ll be in the sun for a while will all help to reduce the occurrences of brown spots. With good protection, those spots may fade completely. If not, I suggest you visit your dermatologist for evaluation.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

yes IPL can make you more photosensitive.  I suggest you speak to your treating physician.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Andrei Metelitsa, MD, FRCPC, FAAD · Answer

Although IPL can certainly make you photo-sensivity, given that you are describing vacation 4 months later, the most likely explanation is your overall sun exposure. You don't need to completely avoid the sun - rather you have to be more pro-active and use sunblock that has broad UVB and UVA protection (make sure that you reapply it on a regular basis). Even patients who have beautiful response to laser when it comes to removal of their brown spots can develop recurrences or new brown spots upon sun exposure.

Does IPL increase photo-sensitivity post-treatment? (photos)

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Does IPL increase photo-sensitivity post-treatment? (photos)

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