BBL IPL settings: Does it make a difference?

It usually takes a series of treatments to remove pigmentation and often takes a combination approach with IPL combined with Fraxel, as well as TCA peels. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for a treatment plan and best outcomes. 

Go see Elizabeth Tanzi in Chevy Chase or Tina Alster in DC. They are both very experienced dermatologists and can give you an honest appraisal

Thanks for the great question. There are a lot of different things going on here. For one, if a smaller adapter was used on your test spot, then they would have increased the energy to get through the adapter. Putting on the adapter decreases the amount of light which is able to get to the skin, so the settings need to be increased. When using IPL there is a fine line between treating people and burning them. I typically tell patients that it will take 3-5 treatments to get rid of all of the pigment. It is very rare to be able to give someone a single treatment and have all of the sun damage be gone. I'm sorry you've had such a bad experience with your current spa. Maybe try seeing a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who also does BBL in your area. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber