A: Intense pulse light is not a safe treatment for most patients of African American, and many of Native American, or Hispanic decent. The treatment could cause more damage than improvement possibly with hypo-pigmentation which is the loss of the skin color in areas that are treated. Most of the time I like to use Tazorac and SilkPeel Dermal Infusion for dark skin patients because it evens the skin tone without lightening your natural color. Another safe option would be light chemical peels with Salicylic acid once a month in the fall/winter months. To maintain the result and prevent further pigmentation you should wear a daily sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Always avoid laser clinics where you do not see a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Q: Can IPL be used on all skin types?
A: IPL is primarily used for photorejuvenation for sun damaged skin in patients with skin types I. II and III. IPL improves that combination of red and brown blotchiness that is the hallmark of too much sun in your youth. Dilated capillaries, pores and fine lines are also improved after a series of 3-6 sessions. We usually space these sessions every 3 weeks and combine it with a skin care program designed to prevent future damage. People with darker skin types IV-VI, usually will not get the full benefits from IPL since their skin ages differently from people with lighter skin tones. In addition, Intense Pulsed Light is riskier for darker skin types. I would say in general that IPL best serves those with lighter skin tone. Darker skin patients benefit from other devices like SilkPeel, Clear and Brilliant, and light chemical peels.
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