Is IPL suitable for Asian skin?

Question

I have some sun spots, brown age spots, and freckles on face and want to remove them. Read some recommendations that IPL is good and safe. I decided to take IPL treatments and so far have 3 IPL treatments, but don't see any improvement. Am I not suitable for IPL treatment? Should I try fractional laser treatment? or any suggestion. I am Asian skin and located in Boston. Your answers are very appreciated. Thanks a lot.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

BBL or IPL  use in  Asian skin can be tricky. One of the reason you may not have seen optimal results may be that  the  laser settings were reduced given your skin type. Therefore, best to do a face to face consult with a laser expert and also and  consider chemical peels such as a light to medium grade TCA peel, medical grade products and deep microdermabrasion as alternatives

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Matching your experience, I, too, unfortunately, have not been impressed overall with the results of light-based therapies, including IPL,  fractional lasers, as well as other forms of energy-based devices for treating age spots (solar lentigines) and freckles (ephelides). Many of these "next greatest thing" device technologies are backed by manufacturer-sponsored small trials and a lot more advertising and marketing hype than hard science.On the other hand, a series of superficial chemical peels or treatment with light radiofrequency surgery (coupled with at home topical prescription medications) have proven to be tried and true methods for decades for dealing with these problems. Depending upon the particular needs, I have performed each of these methods alone or in combination to achieve gratifying results. Not everything new or Star Wars-sounding is really valuable and cost-effective.Consultation with a board certified aesthetic core physician with experience and expertise with all methods for treating these problems is strongly advised.

Joseph A. Eviatar, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, IPL can be very helpful for Asian Skin if it is performed by an expert and uses very careful settings.

Margaret Weiss, MD · Answer

IPL is suitable for Asian skin if performed by an expert dermatologist who has extensive knowledge and experience with laser treatments. It is also important for the patient to adopt the appropriate skin care regimen in order for the most ideal results.

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Pigmentation is difficult to treat especially in Asian skin; you
have to be careful because if something too aggressive is done it can cause
more pigment.

IPL
treatments can cause hyperpigmentation to your skin type. It is possible that
your treatments are “light” to avoid hyperpigmentation and that may be why you
are not seeing any improvement. However, I do not recommend that you continue
to receive IPL treatments. I would also not recommend a Fractional Laser
treatment as that may also cause hyperpigmentation on your skin type.

I would recommend a Cosmelan or Cosmelan MD treatment.Treatment consists of a mask that is
worn on the skin for 6-12 hours, this mask includes 15 lightening agents like
Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid,
Phytic Acid and Salicylic Acid, the MD version also
includes Retin-A and Hydroquinone.

After
the initial mask there is a maintenance cream that is applied to the face
starting 3-5 days after the mask. The maintenance cream is used 1-2 times a day
for 1 month and then every night and can eventually be dropped down to 2-3
times a week.

For
best protection from new pigmentation; try to stay out of the sun between 10-3
and wear a hat if you do. A topical anti-oxidant (like vitamin C) and sunblock
of SPF 50 should be worn daily and a lightening/bleaching cream should be used
nightly. This treatment would be safer for your skin type and will address all
of your concerns.

It
is best to consult with a Board Certified Dermatologist to see what treatment
is best for your skin type.

Erica Linnell, MD · Answer

Asian skin typically responds very well to IPL to treat freckles and other brown spots on the face.  As you know, Asian skin is also very sensitive and can scar very easily as well.  Because of this, the person doing your IPL may be using very conservative settings.  If you haven't seen any difference at all I would recommend that you ask your MD about either another procedure or different settings for the IPL.  Additionally, if your pigment is deeper (freckles and sun spots tend to be superficial while melasma is deeper pigment), the IPL can actually darken the areas.  I would recommend that you find a board certified dermatologist with experience treating Asian skin in your area.Best of luck!

Is IPL suitable for Asian skin?

Answers (6)

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