How to stop orange peel texture and fine lines from IPL? (Photos)

Question

I got an IPL done at my local derms office at the end of April. I have been developing fine lines and an orange peel texture ever since. It seems to be getting worse. I went to the office twice for advise. 1st time I was told that my skin was doing beautiful and 2nd time I was told to apply Vaseline. I had 2 previous IPLs at a Plastic surgeons clinic with beautiful results. Is there anything that I can do to stop/slow the damage. My skin is severely dehydrated and doesn't keep it's moisture.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I am not much of a fan of energy-based devices, including IPL, as anyone who has been following my answers over the years will attest to.  Overall, they largely appear to be supported far more by device manufacturer backed marketing hype than hard science. That being said, in the pix provided, I see what is a very common type of crinkly, crepy skin affecting the lower portion of the face (to the sides and slight above the angles of the mouth), which becomes all the more prominent with smiling. The use of special fillers, known as "Skin Boosters," is a very quick and easy way to improve them. Either injected very superfically as microdroplets in a grid pattern or "fanned" through the areas, skin boosters, not only help to increase skin hydration, but in so doing serve to smooth the overlying skin. What's more, the presence of the filler exerts a biostimulatory effect to promote new, native collagen and elastic fiber production, further enhancing the overall benefit. In Israel, where I have a satellite practice and where a far greater number of regulatory agency approved fillers are available, I typically use Restylane "Skinboosters"  for this purpose. In my Upper East Side Manhattan office, I often use Restylane Silk or Belotero Balance. The results of this treatment are typically immediate and gratifying. Be sure to seek consultation with a board certified aesthetic physician who directly performs the procedures him/herself. And make sure to ask to see before and after photos before agreeing to proceed. Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with a Doctor for a formal evaluation and after care. I recommend silicone gel with growth factors, light therapy and skin care to give improvement. Laser results can take several weeks to settle and sometimes take a series of treatments to get improvement. I usually recommend a combination of treatments with IPL for best results. I suggest adding microneedling/prp to improve skin quality and tone. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

How to stop orange peel texture and fine lines from IPL? (Photos)

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How to stop orange peel texture and fine lines from IPL? (Photos)

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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.