Can IPL actually prevent skin cancer?

Question

I'm a redhead and used a tanning bed and my skin has never been worse. Can I use IPL to prevent skin cancer from forming in the future? It runs in my family. Thanks!

William Groff, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question. While an IPL photofacial can be an effective way to reverse sun damage, there are no studies to suggest it will lower your risk for skin cancer in the future. The best way to protect your skin is by using sunscreen daily without fail. Tanning beds increase your risk for skin cancer, particularly for someone with your coloring. I recommend meeting with a board-certified dermatologist to learn how to restore the health of your skin and protect it from damage in the future.

W. John Bull, MD · Answer

The best thing you can do to prevent skin cancer is to stop using the tanning bed and start using a physical  spf of at least 30. I haven't heard of any studies on IPL treatments preventing skin cancer. I would highly advise you to make yearly skin check appointments with a board certified dermatologist.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

There are some who believe that IPL or BBL (Broad Band Light by Sciton) can reduce the risk of skin cancer, but I do not know of any studies that have proven this. The theory is that the precursor to skin cancer can be an actinic keratosis. These are usually rather red in color and the IPL or BBL targets reds and browns. By injuring the actinic keratosis, the body comes in and "gets rid" of the damaged tissue. Extremely early basal cell carcinomas could theoretically be treated in a similar fashion. An IPL or BBL will NOT treat an easily visible basal cell carcinoma, and though I would always recommend that patients get two BBL's per year, I do not claim that this will reduce their risk of skin cancer. I would also strongly recommend that someone like you see a Dermatologist regularly.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Quintessa

Anshul Gambhir, MD · Answer

Thank you for your message! I am not familiar with any studies on IPL and the prevention of skin cancer. The best way to help prevent skin cancer is to avoid UV light, use SPF of at least 30, and cover your skin with clothing/head with a hat/wear sunglasses when you are in the sun. You should absolutely avoid tanning beds as well! Make sure you are seeing medical dermatology 1-2 times a year for skin checks and if any new mole develops or an existing mole changes, you get it checked out!

Mira Mahajan, MD · Answer

The best way to protect your skin from the sun and taking precautions against skin cancer is to wear an SPF 30 or more on a daily basis. I have never heard of IPL preventing skin cancers however, it can help improve the appearance of hyper pigmentation and redness caused by years of sun exposure. It is always recommended to consult with a dermatologist or a medical professional to go over all the best options for you specifically. Good luck!

Katherine Dee, MD · Answer

The risks from tanning beds are due to long term damage to the DNA of your skin cells. IPL does not change that risk. If you have used tanning beds in the past, you should be getting at least yearly skin checks with a dermatologist. If you want to do your best to reduce your risk, make sure your Vitamin D levels are in the 50-60 range (find a high quality supplement and take 4000-5000U/day). Stay out of the sun and wear sun block.

P. Alexander Ataii, MD- Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. The best known method of preventing skin cancer is applying an SPF with 50+ regularly. There are no proven studies of IPL being able to prevent cancer, tanning beds will only increase the potential risk of getting skin cancer. It would be best to set up a consultation with a trusted provider. Best of luck.

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