Severely burned by IPL on my back. I have both hyper- and hypo-pigmentation. What can be done to remove these scars? (photos)

Question

A month ago, I received IPL treatment on my back for acne scars. Instead, I came out with even worse scarring than I could ever imagine. I suffered from 1st and 2nd degree burns. For the first 2 weeks, I treated my burns with Vaseline and Neosporin, 2-3 times a day. After the scabs came off, I switched to Mederma and Bio Oil 2-3 times a day, but haven't really noticed any improvement. All summer, I've worn shirts that cover my back. What procedure can remove these scars?

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

Please seek out a Board Certified Dermatologist who specializes in ethnic skin. You will need to see a doctor with special skills who can give you the most useful options and a projected expectation of improvements. (I don't see that topical treatments will be able to make much difference.)

This must be devastating to you - and rightly so. Avoiding the sun is certainly a smart step as sunlight will only magnify the problem. I am so sorry to see this.

Genetic background and skin coloring make a huge difference in the type of treatments that can safely be used to improve scarring.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

WOW, I’m so sorry this happened to you, this should have never happened. I suggest seeing a plastic surgeon to see what can be done. Be careful to choose a reputable doctor. Best wishes to you.
Dr. T

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Severely burned by IPL on my back. I have both hyper- and hypo-pigmentation. What can be done to remove these scars? (photos)

Answers (2)

IPL PROVIDERS NEAR YOU