IPL burn blisters - hypopigmentation? (Photo)

Question

Hi there, I was burned by limelight IPL 8 days ago. My burn blisters are starting to heal but I am wondering if this looks like hypopigmentation or if it's too early to tell?

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question beachmumma. I understand your concern. IPL is a great
treatment for facial rejuvenation. If settings are too aggressive it can lead to blisters, burns, and hyper- or hypo-pigmentation. It is important to allow the wound to heal first. Appropriate wound care includes keeping the skin moist and using an occlusive moisturizer such as Vaseline or Aquaphor. After a few weeks once the redness subsides it will be easier to tell if there are color changes. More commonly hyperpigmentation occurs, which can be treated with topical products such as hydroquinone. Please consult
with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! Hypopigmentation occurs when the melanocytes (the cells which make melanin which gives us pigment) within the skin are destroyed. IPL usually is not able to destroy these cells because much of the energy is absorbed by the pigment and not the cells. True hypopigmentation occurs with deep CO2 of Erbium resurfacing where layers and layers of skin cells are destroyed. What you will likely see with IPL is that the areas which were burned have the best response to treatment and have the least about of pigment left afterwards. It seem like hypopigmentation because all of the pigment is gone, but the melanocytes are still there working. Typically these burns will get better with time and should not leave any long term scarring. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

IPL burn blisters - hypopigmentation? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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