Intense pulsed light for the treatment of pigmented and vascular disorders and lesions: A review

Abstract Background Intense pulsed light (IPL) technology has evolved since its first introduction to the market in the 1990s. The underlying mechanism, similar to that of lasers, involves selective thermal damage to specific targets. IPL uses flashlamps and bandpass filters to emit pulsed light of adjustable wavelengths, fluences, and pulse durations. These features contribute to its versatility in treating a wide range of dermatological conditions. Aims The purpose of this review is to highlight the history, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications of IPL in treating pigmented and vascular lesions, and to present a comparison of commonly‐used IPL devices available to the market. Materials and Methods A literature search was conducted using electronic databases (Medline, Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, EBSCO) and textbooks, in addition to the authors’ clinical experience on IPL therapy, and findings are presented here. Results Studies have demonstrated IPL to be an efficacious and safe modality for treating a variety of pigmented and vascular disorders and lesions, including postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, ephelides and solar lentigines, telangiectasias, port‐wine stains, poikiloderma of Civatte, rosacea, hemangiomas, venous malformations, and is comparable to other standard therapeutic options. Literature is supportive yet limited due to small sample sizes and short follow‐up periods. Discussion The adaptability and affordability of IPL often deem it a favorable primary or adjunctive option for treating benign pigmented and vascular skin lesions. IPL technology has evolved over time and modern devices are similar in both efficacy and side effect profile.