1 week post IPL on lower legs that left hyperpigmentation. Will it scar permanently? What can I do to treat it? (photos)

Question

I had IPL treatment on my lower legs about a week ago and my skin had a terrible reaction, it did’nt hurt or sting even no blisters just a terrible reaction from the laser, first it was red bumps everywhere and was itchy and a week after im left with brown pigmentation on my legs everywhere, is this going to scar forever? What should i do to treat it. Please Help

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. These types of scars need a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, microneedling/prp, subcision, salt facials and fillers. It may take a series of treatments and may need some treatments to maintain. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting pictures.  It looks and sounds like you might have Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).  PicoSure Flat or FOCUS lens treatments should be able to take care of it easily with almost no risk.
FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing the underlying scar tissue.  This is one of our go to treatments for patients older than 40 and worried about the signs of aging.  This laser is safe for all skin types.  Start with sunscreen every day!  Once you have treated your hyperpigmentation to your satisfaction, you will probably need a follow treatment every 6 to 12 months depending your level of re-pigmentation.  Best of luck.

1 week post IPL on lower legs that left hyperpigmentation. Will it scar permanently? What can I do to treat it? (photos)

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1 week post IPL on lower legs that left hyperpigmentation. Will it scar permanently? What can I do to treat it? (photos)

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.