Is an IPL facial effective if you don't get the raised brown spots that eventually fall off?

Question

My first IPL produced numerous brown scabs where my sun spots were and when they fell off, I was left with great skin. The last two treatments I had (different provider) did not produce any darkening and they told me the setting was as high as they can go safely and the sun spots will still start to fade. Is this true?

Janet Allenby, DO · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Because you had such a strong reaction to the first treatment you may have not needed as much of a correction for the following treatments. The spots can fade and still get better. You may want to ask them what machine they have and compare it with what your other doctor used so that you can understand why they need to use a lower setting. Good luck!

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question sspotten. I understand your concern.
IPL is a great treatment for facial rejuvenation. When pigment is close to the surface a coffee ground appearance may be seen after the treatment. If pigment is deeper, this is not necessarily seen. Superficial pigment is easier to treat and often resolves after one or two treatments. Deeper pigment takes longer. Adding a fractional laser step may help. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

While the most effective treatment will cause brown spots to become dark and crusty and flake off, they can still lighten without crusting. At this point, IPL is probably not the best treatment to remove your dark spots. The spots the machine is not picking up are likely much deeper and will need a different type of laser to remove. Without seeing photos I could not make any real recommendations, however I would advise speaking to your provider to see what other options they have available.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Repeat IPL treatments tend to be less effective as the remaining pigments are the the most resistant to IPL treatment. It is true that some skin types are at higher risk of pigmentation changes if the energy is too high, particularly in those with darker skin or skin that tans easily. For these patients, it may be better to supplement the IPL with a tretinoin and hydroquinone regimen as well to target those last remaining spots. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD Plastic Surgery

Is an IPL facial effective if you don't get the raised brown spots that eventually fall off?

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Is an IPL facial effective if you don't get the raised brown spots that eventually fall off?

Answers (4)

Answer: IPL

Answer: 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.