IPL while on 20mg isotretinoin, safe for treating acne?

Question

My dermatologist suggests that I undergo IPL for my acne marks while on 20mg Isotretinoin. I've been reading that this isn't safe. Should I go ahead with the treatment anyway?

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Generally speaking most physicians do not combine laser with Accutane since Accutane makes your skin more sensitive to many things such as waxing, laser, etc. The IPL may speed up the redness going away faster, although if you're patient, sometimes the Accutane can do that for you as well at no extra cost. You may want to finish your Accutane and wait and see if the redness fades sufficiently, and if not, then do IPL. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC · Answer

The Isotretinoin use should effectively treat your active acne provided the duration and dose is appropriate. The role of the IPL treatments is to improve your red acne scarring.

H. Michael Roark, MD (retired) · Answer

IPL and
laser treatments are not recommend for patients taking Accutane. This is stated
on all laser manufacturer protocols and recommendations and on the medical
information for Accutane. If you intend on following your dermatologists
recommendation, make absolute sure that you do a small test spot for safety before
going forward with a full face treatment.

IPL while on 20mg isotretinoin, safe for treating acne?

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IPL while on 20mg isotretinoin, safe for treating acne?

Answers (3)

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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.