Why Can IPL Burns Happen?

IPL laser can be a great device to use for pigmentation when used appropriately.  Make sure you see a provider that uses the laser on a regular basis.  They will determine what laser settings to use based on your skin type.  

Thank you for your question. All lasers have the possibility of producing side effects, even burns and scarring when treated in the wrong candidates and in the wrong hands. IPL is a laser/light treatment that is generally very safe and works well with light skin types and on specific settings. Every treatment must be individualized to the patient, their skin type, their condition, etc.  I would recommend being treated under the supervision of a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for safest and best treatment option. I hope this helps.

I always tell my patients, all lasers can be dangerous.  However, they are only as dangerous as the provider performing the treatment.  In other words, aesthetic lasers are designed to treat various skin types safely, from light to dark (depending on the technology), fragile skin to thick skin, 18 to 80 years of age...  so there are many settings available - from conservative to aggressive.  The provider must have an indepth awareness (thru proper training and experience) of what can be accomplished, taking all of these factors into consideration.  It is far better to treat multiple times than to push the envelope and leave someone with scars or marks for life.  Do your research - ask for referrals.  Ask your doctor or clinician to help set your expectations.  Are you a good candidate for the treatment?  Is there pre-care and post care set up to prevent adverse effects?  Don't have a treatment from a facility simply because the treatment is "cheap".  These are extremely sophisticated technologies that employ an educated and  knowledgeable approach to treatment.

IPL treatments and devices are extremely safe when used appropriately.  Any device including a tongue depressor has some risk associated with its use.  Informed consent and patient education are important parts of a doctor patient relationship.  IPL can cause a burn if the settings are too high for a particular skin type, if there is an abundance of a target chromophore,   if the shots are "stacked", if the crystal chiller is not cool enough, or if there is arking from the edge. While most of these issue can be minimized, there is some small risk.  Fortunately even if you experience a burn, the vast majority of patients heal well without any scarring or long term effects.

IPL burns can happen for a variety of reasons, including the skin type of the individual, and most importantly if the person has a tan (high risk of burn). Also, ofcourse, the skills of the operator of any laser or light based device are critical, so ensure your treatments are performed at a medically-supervised office or clinic. Buyer beware (e.g. we regularly see burns from hair salons performing lasers), you get what you pay for out there.