I Was Told Not to Use Moisturizer After IPL, Why?

Question

I read that you should use moisturizer after IPL, but when I had it done, my doctor told me NOT to use any to help speed up the "clearing" of the coffee grounds. Sure enough they all flaked off within 7 days, AND I had a lot. I also keep reading that it takes people 2-3 weeks to clear the coffee grounds when using moisturizer. So I'm confused as to what's up with the differing advice. ???

Hannah Vargas, MD · Answer

Here are some reasons why you might feel like you are getting conflicting advice.

	 When we are treating Hyperpigmentation we often use hydroquinone (a topical product that blocks your skin from putting down more of the pigment).  We often are treating this in conjunction with a retinol that helps exfoliate the skin.  During this time some providers don't necessarily recommend moisturizer.

	Some doctors have specific protocols after laser treatments.  For example, if an IPL is combined with a resurfacing laser treatment a thicker petroleum is often recommended for a couple of days before converting over to moisturizer.

	Sunscreen, on the other hand, is generally always recommended.

	It really depends on the context of the advice.  Discuss these recommendations further with your physician.  Good luck!

Lorrie Klein, MD · Answer

I have never heard that moisturizer affects healing after IPL and there is no reason that it should.  Our patients use moisturizer and sunscreen (in fact we apply it for them after the treatment as well) and their "coffee grind" looking dark spots fade in approximately 1 week as yours did without moisturizer.

Amiya Prasad, MD · Answer

Avoiding a moisturizer after Intense Pulsed Light treatments may be based on the concern that superficial areas which get deeply pigmented and peel off can become healed over if moisturizer is used after IPL. At my practice in New York, I recommend using a good skin cleanser and then a lightweight moisturizer after our clients have IPL treatments.

Grant Stevens, MD · Answer

Moisturizers and Sunscreen use is key after IPL treatments.  In fact, it is not out of the ordinary I encourage my patients to add a Kojic Acid or Hydroquinone to their daily regimen for maintenance and optimal results.

	 

	Dr. Grant Stevens

Sheri G. Feldman, MD · Answer

You should absolutely use a moisturizer and sunscreen after IPL treatments.    They have no adverse effects on the resolution of the "coffee grind" like pigmentation.    The sunscreen gives the added benefit of helping to prevent those nasty brown spots from reoccurring.     Please continue your sunscreen forever!

I Was Told Not to Use Moisturizer After IPL, Why?

Answers (5)