IPL vs. VBeam vs. Picosure?

Question

Hello, I'm in my early 60's with some dark spots on my forehead and chest. What's the best treatment - IPL, VBeam or Picosure? thanks so much

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I never cease to be amazed at the power of marketing hype and social media misinformation to sway the general public. Instead of questioning what simple, effective and proven methods exist for treating unwanted dark spots, the question is which of the expensive, "bells and whistles"  light or laser device would be best. The unfortunate reality is that the hard science to support the use of light and energy-based devices lags woefully behind the heavy marketing and social media influencer hype. On the other hand, for isolated dark spots, relatively quick and inexpensive treatments that have stood the test of decades for safety and efficacy are available treat this kind of issue, including varying concentrations of TCA, among several others. If consumers go out with a mindset toward being treated with some supposedly "next big thing" gizmo they have heard about, they will likely find a medspa or other venue more than ready and happy to give it to them at a hefty price. You would be wise to consult with an experienced board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck.

IPL vs. VBeam vs. Picosure?

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IPL vs. VBeam vs. Picosure?

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Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.