What can I do to help scar caused by IPL? (photos)

These scars can be improved with a combination of Cosmelan, lasers, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Thank you for your question. I suggest you follow up with your provider. CO2 laser or microneedling may be helpful.

First, let me say how sorry I am that you have had this problem. Dedicated readers of my columns over the past half-dozen years are aware that I am no fan of light-based (such as IPLs & fraxels) and other energy-based therapies as the science is weak for their true value, the risks of problems such as yours real and not infrequent, and the heavy marketing by the device manufacturers their biggest support. At this point, you would do well to seek consultation with a board certified aesthetic dermatologist who can help you to treat this complication. He/she might recommend the use of topical steroids to suppress the inflammation and thereby reduce further hyperpigmentation and the use of prescription strength topical retinoids (retinol is quite weak and requires conversion in the skin to an active retinoid) along with the topical hydroquinone preparation you are using. Moreover, between eight to twelve weeks after the injury (which, by my calculation is about another two to four weeks from now for you), he/she may wish to combine the home use of the above with in-office treatments, such as medical microneedling coupled with skin bleaching agents and topical tranexamic acid. Bottom line for readers, exercise a good dose of healthy skepticism when considering unproven light and other energy-based therapies that are so heavily hawked out there, and bottom line for you, make sure that you see a qualified physician soon to minimize long-term or persistent aesthetic aggravation. Best of luck.

So sorry that this happened. The hardest thing with PIH is to resist the impulse to fix it fast. Additional IPL or lasers at this point can actually cause more inflammation and worsen the condition and I would even avoid any microderm or skinpen - it is unlikely to help and may make things worse.Strict sun avoidance and at least 3 months of 10% hydroquinone is the best plan - it's hard to wait that long, but if you do, that's your best chance of a good outcome at the end and if you still have hyperpigmentation at that point, then you can consider things like pico or microneedling with PRP.

Thank you for your question and posting pictures.  Sorry this happened to you.  It sounds like you have Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).  We have also been very successful using the PicoSure laser with the FOCUS and / or Flat Lenses eliminating hyperpigmentation with a series of treatments.  FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing fine lines and wrinkles.  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.  I hope this helps.