IPL or Fraxel for reducing pigment? Do you recommend hydroquinone in combination with the IPL?

Question

I have been dealing with hyperpigmentation of these dark spots on my face for years. I have started IPL treatment, mostly looking to lighten and reduce the appearance of these sunspots. I am wondering if IPL can help reduce the dark pigment and if I should combine the use of retinoids or hydroquinone. Is there a way to get rid of them completely?

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) following acne is a common, but often difficult problem to treat. Relatively expensive laser and other light-based energy treatments are the new kids on the block and are much hyped these days. But, the jury is still out on their real value, and, in fact, they have been known to worsen skin blotches, particularly in persons with skin of color. On the other hand, relatively inexpensive superficial chemical peels have a proven, time-tested record of safety and efficacy (even in skin of color) spanning several decades. Common superficial peeling agents include high concentration glycolic and salicylic acid; Jessner's Solution; and low concentrations of TCA. At-home use of retinoids and hydroquinone under a dermatologist's supervision can be extremely helpful for expediting the fading of these kinds of blotches. You would be wise to make certain that you consult with a board certified aesthetic dermatologist, rather than a local medspa hawking its latest light or laser purchase. Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation/discoloration that needs cosmelan or enlighten peels at home which we can do virtually and send to your home along with aerify peels regularly, vivatia foam, restorsea 10x, faith essence serum, and cosmelan 2 cream. 
 
Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan or enlighten,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  BBL or IPL can help along with Halo.  Bimonthly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion/silkpeel is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

IPL or Fraxel for reducing pigment? Do you recommend hydroquinone in combination with the IPL?

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IPL or Fraxel for reducing pigment? Do you recommend hydroquinone in combination with the IPL?

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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.