Can limited sun exposure cause significant skin damage after IPL Hair Removal? (Photo0

Question

I had IPL hair removal on my arms, hands, legs, bekini. I never sunbathe but do wear short sleeve tops in summer without SPF. Since the IPL (7 treatments, 6 wks apart) I noticed red lines on my wrists after flexing them. Now, i have been left with very wrinkled wrists when i flex them, that were not like that before. The skin appears drier and aged. I wonder if it was from the sun exposure on my arms in the car driving to work 8.30am and back at 5.15pm (40 mins each way) that caused this?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your
question.It is recommended to avoid direct sunlight before and after IPL treats and to also use a sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays. It is not likely that the IPL has caused the wrist wrinkles. 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.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Avoidance of direct sun exposure is important after IPL. We have our patients use sunscreen and Elevase Moisture Booster with ceramides after treatment. Best,Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

IPL doesn't cause wrinkled wrists or cause the sun to predispose you to this.  I would try some skin thickening lotion like Skinceuticals body concentrate lotion or the like and consider other treatmetns to improve the wrinkling such as fillers, fractional lasers or microneedling.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Kenneth W. Alanen, MD · Answer

IPL would not be expected to cause this issue. The wrinkles noted are a result of chronic, low grade sun exposure as well as aging. Zinc oxide based sunscreens help perpetuate the benefits of IPL and also minimize the tendency for the wrinkles to worsen. Be aware the this process is mediated by ultraviolet-A wavelengths (not UV-B). UV-A goes through glass as well as clouds; hence, always be wearing a zinc oxide sunscreen. The sunscreen ingredients are every bit as important as the SPF number.....* 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

Can limited sun exposure cause significant skin damage after IPL Hair Removal? (Photo0

Answers (4)