Possible eye damage after using at home IPL hair removal device (Lux Skin Co)?

Question

While using an IPL hair removal device on my boyfriend’s back, my finger accidentally slipped and hit the button when the window was not pressed against the skin. We both saw a bright flash light, and l‘m worried that we may have damaged our retinas or something! Last night, I felt heat after seeing the light and it was like the backs of my eyes were sunburnt. I started sweating after seeing the flash, and I was very sensitive to light. This morning, my eyes are blurry. What do I do?

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I would see an Ophthalmologist to evaluate your eyes, including your retina. It is possible but unlikely that a permanent issue can occur with a home device. I don't see how there would be approval for a device if it were that dangerous. Office IPLs, BBLs can cause visual loss or other eye injuries. This is usually related to the device being too close to an eye that isn't protected well. The very bright light can sometimes be temporarily "blinding" but that is similar to the phenomenon you get when you look directly into the sun. It overwhelms the receptors and it takes a while for them to recover. I'm not sure that anything can be done to improve your outcome if there is noted damage on the retina from IPL or laser however.

Possible eye damage after using at home IPL hair removal device (Lux Skin Co)?

Answers (1)