Ipl burn mark. Will this leave a permanent scar? (photo)

Question

What can I do to help this ipl burn mark heal? I’m very worried it will leave a permanent scar.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say I am sorry this has happened to you. As anyone who consistently reads my answers would know, I am certainly no fan of any of the current light and energy-based therapies, as these have proven themselves to be far more device manufacturer and medspa backed marketing hype than hard science. As to dealing with the current problem, eight to twelve weeks following any injury (or surgery, etc.) is considered the ideal time to intervene to minimize scarring and discoloration. So, please keep this timeline in mind. For a flat mark that is simply red (i.e. postinflammatory erthema or PIE), microneedling plus the addition of topical prescription agents, such tranexamic acid, brimonidine or oxymetazoline, can be quite helpful for fading the redness before it evolves into a more difficult problem of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).  If your physician feels it appropriate, a topical antiinflammatory, such as betamethasone may also be added to this regimen. In this case, it appears that postinflammatory hyperpigmentation has already developed in certain locations. For this microneedling plus topical prescription strength bleaching agents may be applied to complement the tranexamic acid.. The microscopic channels created by microneedling enhance the penetration of the aforementioned agents to potentiate their beneficial effects. Make sure that you are consulting with a board certified physician. Best of luck.

William Groff, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. While it is difficult to make an assessment without seeing you in person, I encourage you to schedule a follow-up with your doctor or another board-certified dermatologist. If this is scarring, early intervention may help reduce its appearance. Once the area has fully healed, laser treatments can also be used to revise the scar further. Make sure you are working with a doctor who has ample experience in light-based devices to ensure future treatments are both safe and successful.

Ipl burn mark. Will this leave a permanent scar? (photo)

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Ipl burn mark. Will this leave a permanent scar? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about IPL

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