Should I use IPL on 2nd degree pink/red burn marks? (Photos)

Question

I have suffered a 2nd degree burn approximately 8-9 weeks ago. There are still pink/red leftover marks at the site of injury which I have been treating with silicone gel. I was told that an IPL procedure may help improve the redness. Would this be useful (pics attached), or would it make sense to wait for natural fading or perhaps look into different treatments? Is there an optimal time when such a procedure can be done?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello,These types of scars may begin to fade with time.  However, if they are not showing progressive signs of fading, considering it has been over 2 months, you may want to consider a laser treatment over an IPL treatment.  These are two different light-based technologies.  In our experience, we prefer the pulsed dye lasers (VBeam, Vstar) to gently fade the red color left behind from the trauma on the skin.  The silicone gel has reached optimal results at this time.  Please be diligent with avoiding direct and prolonged sun exposure to this area and daily sunscreen is recommended.The below link demonstrates the fading of red scars using pulse dye lasers.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing combined with lasers (VBeam, ProYellow, Excel V) and microneedling/prp. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo. Partial thickness burns such as the one you have tend to heal very well on their own if you keep them out of the sun. Silicone scar gels or cream also provide an additional layer of moisture and have shown improvement with scars. I would be cautious of any energy based treatments such as IPL so early. You may end up removing too much pigment and have hypopigmented scars which will stand out. I generally prefer waiting at least 2-3 months prior to using IPL on scars.  Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD Plastic Surgery@drjohnsonlee

Should I use IPL on 2nd degree pink/red burn marks? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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.

Should I use IPL on 2nd degree pink/red burn marks? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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.