Questions about IPL: scars, burns, moles and more

If you have marks on your skin, it’s natural to have questions about using IPL. Scars, moles, birthmarks and freckles all seem like they could cause IPL issues. If you’re wondering about using at-home IPL for dark spots you’re in the right place, as we answer common questions like ‘can you use IPL on moles?’ and ‘how long does it even take for the hair to disappear?’

1. Can you use IPL for dark skin?

Before we get onto questions about using at-home IPL for dark spots like moles, birthmarks and freckles, we first we need to discuss IPL for dark skin in general. IPL-based treatments are generally most effective on very white to dark brown skin tones, but aren’t suitable for very dark skin.

That’s because the pulses of light that reduce the re-growth of hair are absorbed by the hair's melanin (colour pigment) beneath the skin. If there is a high level of melanin in the skin then it attracts the light. Dark and very dark skin tones are more prone to absorb the light, and this can cause skin damage like burns, discolouring or blisters.

2. Can you use IPL on moles, birthmarks and freckles?

Like hair, moles get their colour from the pigment melanin, and there is an accumulation of melanin in birthmarks. As we’ve seen, the energy of the light in IPL is absorbed by melanin, so IPL would also heat the mole or birthmark itself. It could cause discomfort, burns or long-term changes. So, before you undertake IPL hair removal, moles and birthmarks need to be identified, to help you avoid them.

You shouldn’t use IPL directly on or close to birthmarks or moles. However, if there’s one in the general area, you might be able cover the mole or birthmark and flash around it. In any case, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist beforehand if you have birthmarks or moles.

When it comes to IPL hair removal, moles, birthmarks and freckles can be considered in a similar way. Although there isn’t as big an accumulation of melanin in freckles as in moles and birthmarks, you should still avoid treating a freckle directly.

3. Can you use IPL for acne scars and scars in general?

In principle, the use of IPL around and on scars is not a problem. In fact, dermatologists even use IPL for acne scars and to treat acne. The light impulses intentionally damage the sebaceous glands. Excessive sebum production is reduced, so that inflammation decreases. Acne scars are lightened by IPL and are therefore less noticeable on light skin.

This means that IPL can only be used on scars for hair removal if the scarred skin is light. In addition, you shouldn’t treat fresh scars. The skin is more sensitive in this area, which is more likely to cause pain and irritation. In summary, when using IPL, scars need to be old and skin light for effective and safe hair removal.

That being said, although IPL is generally harmless for scars, if you have any scars you should consult a dermatologist before using an IPL device at home.

4. When does hair fall out after IPL?

After an IPL application, it initially appears as if nothing is happening, as no hairs fall out immediately. However, there’s no need to worry. With IPL, only the hair root is heated to inhibit further growth. The hair itself remains in the skin. Due to the normal growth of the skin, the hair is slowly transported up and out.

So, exactly when does hair fall out after IPL? It can take up to 3 weeks for the treated hair to actually fall out. If you’d like to learn more, you can read expert information about how IPL works.