Intense Pulsed Light: From the Past to the Future

Background: For 20 years, intense pulsed light (IPL) technology has been used to treat various medical problems. IPL has since developed rapidly, becoming popular among patients worldwide. Recently, IPL has been used mainly for cosmetic purposes. Researchers are constantly seeking new applications of IPL to meet the increasing needs of patients. Objective: This review summarizes the development of IPL devices, discusses the current literature on the clinical application of IPL to increase our understanding of IPL, and provides guidance for broadening its clinical applications. Materials and methods: We performed a systematic search of electronic databases, including MEDLINE and PubMed and the authors experience on IPL to divide IPL development into three stages: germination, growth, and relative maturity. Results: Studies established the classical indications of IPL, including vascular lesions, pigmented lesions, hair growth, and photo rejuvenation. However, trials showed IPL has limited effects for complicated skin problems. Many studies explored rational combination therapies by IPL and laser or other cosmetic technologies. Conclusions: Based on previous research and the new generation of IPL devices, in the future, we predict wider and more effective clinical applications of IPL through the further improvement of IPL devices and their combined treatment.