Intense Pulsed Light: A Methodical Approach to Understanding Clinical Endpoints

February 2021 | Volume 20 | Issue 2 | Case Reports | 203 | Copyright © February 2021


Published online January 10, 2021

Michael B. Lipp DO, Kunal Angra MD, Douglas C. Wu MD PhD, Mitchel P. Goldman MD

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology: A West Dermatology Company, San Diego, CA

higher fluence levels and fewer pulse counts. However, when the IPL is pushed to aggressive parameters, there is a risk of hypopigmentation and hair loss as seen in this case study. Skin type is another important consideration. The patient was a Fitzpatrick skin type III, which is more forgiving, and the outcomes may be an unacceptable outcome if treated on darker skin types. Treatment response and adverse effect profiles will vary greatly with skin type. We recommend that providers titrate their settings based on Fitzpatrick skin type and proceed cautiously in patients with skin types IV–V or history of recent tanning. Additionally, all IPL devices operate differently, and one IPL device may not have the same features (eg, MSP) as another.

The IPL is a highly versatile energy device that can produce excellent clinical outcomes by targeting multiple different chromophores (melanin, oxyhemoglobin/deoxyhemoglobin, and water), improving pigmentation, redness, tone and texture. In addition, treatments are safe and well-tolerated. The goal of this study is to help practitioners better conceptualize and fine tune IPL device settings in order to produce the most effective and safest clinical outcome.

DISCLOSURES

Dr. Goldman conducts clinical studies and received the Stellar M22 on loan from Lumenis Ltd.

REFERENCES

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AUTHOR CORRESPONDENCE

Michael B. Lipp m.b.lipp@gmail.com
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