Is IPL a good solution for getting rid of acne? (Photo)

Question

i have a lot of acne on my face. What ever the creme i use,makes my face too dry or too oily and as a result,i get more acne. Recently ive heared about IPL laser ... But i dont know if it is suitable for me and i will get good results or not...

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for the skin and scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I find that clear + brilliant, microneedling, peels and skin care are much better for acne than IPL. I avoid IPL in dark skinned patients.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Peter Petropoulos, MD · Answer

Acne is often stubborn, but a good examination and detailed history are important. IPL if using the proper 3 step protocol can be very effective at treating acne in a drug free way.  Look for a provider in your area familiar with Sciton's BBL Forever Clear protocol for acne.  Best of luck.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

IPL (intense pulsed light) is great for improving dark pigmented spots due to sun exposure in fair individuals and those who tend to sunburn. It does not specifically target sebaceous glands which cause oily skin, bacteria which cause inflammation, or stimulate collagen to fill in acne scars. You may be better served with chemical peels, topical skin care and oral therapy to target the specific causes of acne. For the best treatment options, it is important to visit an expert for an in-person examination. Best of luck!

Is IPL a good solution for getting rid of acne? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Acne and IPL

Answer: Acne and IPL

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Is IPL a good solution for getting rid of acne? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Acne and IPL

Answer: Acne and IPL

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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.