Is it safe to undergo IPL laser treatments while using tretinoid on the face? (Photo)

Hi JL.  Retin A is designed to remove the outer layers of dead skin (stratum corneum).  From the perspective of skin health, Retin A is great because it makes your skin appear softer, healthier and fresher.  It gives the skin a workout because the epidermis reproduces more quickly when using Retin A.With that said, removing this protective outer layer of dead skin cells makes you much more vulnerable to sunlight and the light that's found in IPL treatments.  For this reason, we recommend that our patients take at least 7 days off Retin A before undergoing any laser treatments.  You can have the treatments, but the risk of side effects is higher while using Retin A and most practitioners will ask that you stay off it for some period of time before laser treatments.  

Maybe but only IN PERSON evaluations allows a definitive response in this case. Best to be seen by boareded doctors.. 

IPL is a fantastic treatment to have in conjunction with
using your topical retinoid at home. In fact, typically your skin will get a
better result from the IPL if you are treating your skin topically at home. Of
course it’s important to have a consultation with your provider to make sure
you are an appropriate candidate for IPL, because not everyone is. Typically
your provider will have you stop use of your retinoid a couple days before
treatment, and not resume use until the skin is completely healed after
treatment.

I suggest that patients stop using Retin-A, retinoids, etc. for a minimum of 3 days before getting an IPL treatment. You can start again the next day, but it's best to be off it for a few days because it can make you more susceptible to burning from the IPL. If you don't stop it or you forget, make sure you tell your technician because they will need to lower the settings. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot
be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."