What About Portable IPL Devices?

Question

Hello I just ordered a portable IPL device that claims it can clear up blemishes in hours following three 2 & 1/2 minute heat/light treatments. Does anyone have any info on how effective these devices are?

William Ting, MD · Answer

We have 2 potential problems here. First, IPL is helpful to reduce rosy complexion and minimize pigmentation after a series of 3 to 5 treatments. Not only IPL may not help, some people with active acne can get a little worse with IPL. Secondly, portable home-based medical devices typically do not have enough fluence, or power to deliver the efficacy one would expect from a medical device administered at a physician's office. Do your best to take care of your skin under supervision of a board-certified dermatologist.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

A portable IPL device is likely to lack the appropriate energy required to be effective. Keep in mind that modern medical IPL devices cost ten of thousands brand new and are quite powerful. I would prefer to use a portable, cheap device in my practice but I know such devices are not comparable to what I currently have. Buyer beware!

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

You know the old saying...if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. You did not give the brand name of the machine you have purchased, so we cannot comment on it directly.
We will agree with Dr. Oppenheim that if this machine is offered to consumers it is greatly underpowered compared to Class IV medical lasers. The other important issue is that any home based device like these may provide some temporary relief for acne, but does not offer a longer term solution. While there is no cure for acne, there are devices and medications that can help improve your condition for an extended period of time and this machine would not fit into that category.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

IPL works great for rosacea and sun spots.  It can also have a small effect on fine wrinkles but I wouldn't use it for that.  Skin blemishes have to be better defined.

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD (retired) · Answer

I am not sure why you would buy one of these machines which are greatly underpowered by physician standards. Besides which, if you want to clear an acne lesion, Thermaclear or Zeno ( I prefer the former device but the latter works well also) are much more effective, easier to use and probably cheaper.

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