Can I get IPL facial treatment if I have flat moles?

Question

1.) Can this treatment be performed on my face if I have flat moles on my face? Can the moles be removed from the treatment? (I have very fair skin along with some sun spots.) 2.) Is it common for patients to have this treatment done on their shoulders? Mine are very spotted from sun tanning. 3.) Is it common for patients to numb before procedure? Thank you in advance for your answer/help!

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

This treatment can be performed on the face with flat moles, most providers will mark out the moles prior to treatment and work around the area. It is not recommended to go over any moles with any devices that could potentially change their appearance. IPL may be performed on the shoulders, hands, chest, legs, etc. Depending on the amount of sun damage present on the shoulders there are other treatment options available such as an Erbium laser to lighten dark spots. In regards to numbing prior to procedure it is up to the provider/technician in charge of the treatment. Our clinic offers laughing gas or Nitrous oxide as a way to help patients deal with the discomfort associated with treatment.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis.  We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

lasers and light do not affect moles. it would be best to start peels and skincare prior to treatments. Best, Dr. Emer.

Timothy Abrahamson, MD · Answer

yes, IPL such as the Palomar Icon Max G can be done in areas with moles.

As with any cosmetic therapy, the key is to make sure the treatment area is clear of any changing or uncertain lesions.   If one feels moles or other changing lesions in the treatment area, confirmation of the benign nature of lesions critical before treatment.

This is why the involvement of a physician if not a dermatologist is important in overseeing cosmetic procedures.   Always make sure your lesions, growths, or moles are benign before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.

Can I get IPL facial treatment if I have flat moles?

Answers (4)

Answer: IPL / BBL with moles

Answer: IPL / BBL with moles

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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.

Can I get IPL facial treatment if I have flat moles?

Answers (4)

Answer: IPL / BBL with moles

Answer: IPL / BBL with moles

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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.