Are sunglasses suitable for IPL protection?

IPL patients typically require protective goggles (metal or plastic shields) or adhesive shields to protect the eye, especially when dealing with the face.  Sunglasses are not designed to protect you from aesthetic lasers and light.  All providers and non patients in the room should wear goggles that have a specific OD rating for the laser and or light to be utilized.  Best Dr. Anil Shah

While IPL utilizes broad band light sources and not a coherent wavelength as with lasers, it is still incredibly bright and can cause issues with the eyes.  When the face is done, we typically have patients wear either IPL adhesive shields (honeywell) or we have them wear metal external goggles and we have IPL goggles that filter out the light utilized.  The broadband light spans from the visible light range to the low infrared region so protection to the ocular area is recommended. 

Laser and IPL treatment require the operator (and the person being treated) to wear protective eyewear that is rated for the wavelengths emitted by the device.  The glasses should have a specific "OD" rating imprinted on the side.