Is IPL Safe if You Have a Sun Tan?

Question

I had 2 IPL treatment and now have a sun tan and I am scheduled for a my 3rd treatment. Should I postpone it?

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

If you proceed with your third IPL treatment with while tanned, you are likely to have more problems than with your first two treatments.  The reaction from IPL is pigment dependent and you will have a more severe reaction if you proceed at this time. Definitely wait a few weeks

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If your skin is tanned, you would have an increased likelihood of complications like hyperpigmentation or burn after your IPL treatment. There is no downside to waiting 2 weeks.
I hope this is helpful for you.

Paul L. Leong, MD, FACS · Answer

Having a tan can put you at a greater risk for burns from the laser.  The laser seeks out the melanin in the root of the hair or the pigment in the age spot and when the skin is tan the melanin come to the surface, which give you the tan or darker appearance.  Its best to wait till your skin has no more tan lines and that you are careful with the sun while doing treatment with the IPL laser.  Also, remember to use sunscreen daily to protect your skin. 

	I hope this helps.

Pamela Carr, MD · Answer

The purpose of IPL treatment is to improve brown spot and blood vessels. The target for this light treatment is color. If you are tan the device may target the tan skin and not the desired target. A burn could result. Please remember a tan damages the skin.  Protect with sun screen and practice sun avoidance.

Allison J. Stocker, MD · Answer

Save yourself potential complications and wait a few weeks before proceeding with your IPL treatment. Of course, if you are investing in IPL treatments to improve your skin, you will maximize results by always protecting your skin from the sun.

Is IPL Safe if You Have a Sun Tan?

Answers (6)

Answer: Avoid IPL on tanned skin

Answer: Avoid IPL on tanned skin

Answer: Avoid IPL after recent sun exposure

Answer: Avoid IPL after recent sun exposure

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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.

Is IPL Safe if You Have a Sun Tan?

Answers (6)

Answer: Avoid IPL on tanned skin

Answer: Avoid IPL on tanned skin

Answer: Avoid IPL after recent sun exposure

Answer: Avoid IPL after recent sun exposure

Browse related questions

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.