I did my second IPL treatment for acne and it looks like the burn is so bad. I have an open wound after two days. (Photos)

Question

How do I deal with it? Can i still use hydrocortisone in an open wound? Or can I use an ointment in an open wound? If I can, what would be the suggested brand. The spa is closed on weekends so I can't seem for an advice from them.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

in 2 weeks to immedaitely start hydroquinone. its very important  you do immediate wound care and then protect your skin against hyperpigmentation permanently.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question marloweloy. I am sorry to hear about your situation.
IPL is a great treatment for facial rejuvenation. Burns can be treated with wound care. I recommend that my patients keep the area moist using the Avene Thermal spray water and applying a thin layer of an occlusive moisturizer such as Vaseline or Aquaphor several times per day. Hyperpigmentation, if prolonged, can be addressed with brightening agents such as hydroquinone. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry this happened to you. In my opinion, it is best to treat burns from IPL just like you would any other burns. The management of most facial burns entails using bacitracin ointment over the burn areas 2-3x day until new skin grows over. For burns off of the face bacitracin of silvadene can be used to assist in wound healing. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos and your concerns.  I'm very sorry, but from your photos, it appears that you sustained a burn from your IPL treatment.  It is very important that you try to follow-up with a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible to discuss wound care to try and prevent permanent scarring.  Best of luck.

I did my second IPL treatment for acne and it looks like the burn is so bad. I have an open wound after two days. (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Burn after IPL

Answer: Burn after IPL

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I did my second IPL treatment for acne and it looks like the burn is so bad. I have an open wound after two days. (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Burn after IPL

Answer: Burn after IPL

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.