Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Apr:23 Suppl 1:1-6. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16281.

Abstract

Background: IPL devices emit a wide range of wavelengths that can be absorbed by different chromophores in the skin. Selective destruction of a specific chromophore with minimal side effects is controlled by wavelength, pulse duration, and fluence.

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions using narrow-band Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) with Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT), which offers more efficient energy usage per pulse to increase safety, and improve clinical outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from 100 patients treated with narrow-band IPL for vascular and pigmented lesions. Efficacy was measured by the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Patient Satisfaction Scale (0-10). Safety was assessed by evaluating pain levels and adverse events.

Results: Mean GAIS scores were 8.02 ± 0.84 for vascular and 8.14 ± 0.9 for pigmented lesions with no significant difference between groups (p=0.49, α=0.05). Patient satisfaction correlated with GAIS scores (correlation coefficient 0.8). No pain was reported and two patients experienced temporary and transient side effects.

Conclusion: Overall, the advanced IPL treatments provided favorable outcomes for vascular and pigmented lesions.

Keywords: dermatology; intense pulsed light; nonsurgical; pigmented lesion; vascular lesion.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Intense Pulsed Light Therapy* / adverse effects
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin*
  • Treatment Outcome