IPL treatments have not been shown to produce a legitimate risk of cancer. Wavelengths lower than 500 nm, which are within the carcinogenic spectrum of UV light, are not used in IPL treatments. Long-term effects of laser therapy, including the possibility of increased risk of cancer, have not been studied. Some researchers have observed changes in atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) after laser hair removal, so caution is advised for people with a personal or family history of skin cancer or atypical moles.
IPL devices have been around for 22 to 23 years and are safe and do not cause cancer. X-rays and gamma rays are very dangerous and famous for their high ionizing radiation, which can damage the DNA in cells and may lead to cancer in the future. However, hair removal methods such as IPL and laser hair removal use radiation that is not ionizing; the light does not penetrate the skin and cannot cause any mutation or damage to the DNA. Skin cancers will not spread or be affected by IPL lasers.
IPL can be used to improve damaged skin, such as hyperpigmentation caused by too much melanin developing small deposits on the skin. Age spots, liver spots, sunspots, freckles, and other forms of hyperpigmentation can be found on the arms, face, and hands - common areas for hair removal. Side effects of IPL can last 14 days and then disappear. People with darker skin are more at risk for side effects. There is no evidence that IPL can damage the reproductive system; the light is not strong enough to penetrate deep into the skin.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has determined that laser and IPL therapies are without long-term risks. Repeated exposures to high-intensity IPL light did not result in increased carcinogenicity or tumor formation. Light-based treatments can help a faster diagnosis of melanoma due to informed consultations with trained personnel during treatments in clinics or beauty salons. Doctors recommend that clients presenting for laser or IPL treatment have undergone a skin cancer check in the previous six to 12 months for their safety and peace of mind. Adverse effects of IPL treatments are well documented; these include blistering, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring if extensive.
Wavelengths between 400 and 500 nm have been used in IPL devices most commonly for the treatment of acne and psoriasis. In conclusion, there is no evidence that light energy from hair removal lasers can cause cancer. However, there are some risks involved such as redness, scarring, and discoloration in the treated area. People with darker skin are more at risk for side effects. Doctors recommend that clients presenting for laser or IPL treatment have undergone a skin cancer check in the previous six to 12 months for their safety and peace of mind.
