The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 days
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$200 - $600
The Specifics
What is birthmark removal by intense pulsed light (IPL)?
Birthmark removal by intense pulsed light (IPL) is a less invasive alternative to laser skin resurfacing. IPL therapy targets the second skin layer (the dermis) to break up melanin deposits in pigmented birthmarks, or to stop the blood supply to vascular birthmarks.
The light therapy is absorbed by cells which are then heated, and broken down for removal by the body. IPL can treat port wine stains, cafe au lait spots, salmon patches, mongolian spots, stork bites, age spots, freckles, and various nevi over a number of treatments with laser therapy. All types of birthmarks must be evaluated by a dermatologist prior to birthmark removal treatments.
What cosmetic concerns does a birthmark removal by IPL procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for a birthmark removal by IPL procedure?
The ideal candidate for a birthmark removal by IPL procedure has well hydrated, mildly-oily skin with undesirable vascular or pigmented birthmarks. Birthmark removal by IPL is not recommended for pregnant women, those on Accutane within the past six months, those prone to keloid scarring, and individuals with darker skin tones due to the risk of hypopigmentation.
What is the average recovery associated with a birthmark removal by IPL procedure?
There is little to no downtime following a birthmark removal by IPL procedure. Most candidates resume normal activities following the treatment with some limitations on strenuous physical activity. Redness and swelling resolve within a few days to a week. Patients are advised to limit sun exposure.
What are the potential side effects of a birthmark removal by IPL procedure?
Potential side effects following a birthmark removal by IPL treatment include a sunburn appearance, peeling, blistering, changes in skin pigmentation, redness, and bruising.
What can someone expect from the results of a birthmark removal by IPL procedure?
The results of a birthmark removal by IPL procedure evolve over a series of initial treatments, typically three to eight sessions occurring once a month. Maintenance treatments are generally needed every year, and limiting sun exposure will enhance the results.
What is the average cost of a birthmark removal by IPL procedure?
A birthmark removal by IPL procedure can cost anywhere from $200 to $600. The actual cost of a Birthmark Removal by IPL procedure is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.
Pros
Cons
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Light therapy can be used to diminish the appearance of both pigmented and vascular birthmarks. While not as aggressive as laser resurfacing, intense pulsed light therapy, or IPL, can make birthmarks less noticeable. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after birthmark removal by light therapy.
The Takeaway
Birthmark removal by intense pulsed light is a minimally invasive birthmark removal procedure to remove vascular and pigmented birthmarks. Unlike Laser Skin Resurfacing, IPL does not cause skin flaking and peeling.
