IPL or PDL is better for me?

Question

I had keloid scar in 2006 under my chin. I had 3 steroid injections after that to flatten the scar. Right now, my scar is flat, thin looks normal but it is still a bit red due to blood vessels. I have a very fair skin. My question is should I use IPL or PDL? My goal is reducing the redness of the scar. Thank you for answering my question.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

IPL is not the gold standard for keloid treatment as there is risk of ancillary damage. I would use the PDL laser on the keloid in addition to IIT, topical therapy with Plato's Scar Serum, and topical massage. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Both can work, but the best in my opinion is the Vbeam perfecta by Candela. I hope this helps!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest going to a laser expert who also specializes in scarring.  This can relatively easily be improved, but not cured.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Pinky.  A pulsed dye laser (PDL) is much more effective (when used properly) to get rid of red scars than an IPL is.  An IPL is not a laser and does not have the same power as you find in a PDL.  With that said, the tool does not make the treatment, the practitioner does.  Find a practitioner that uses the pulsed dye lasers commonly for scar treatments.To see examples of before and after photos for the removal of red scars with pulsed dye lasers in our Orange, CA office, click on the link below.

IPL or PDL is better for me?

Answers (4)