The intense pulsed light emitted during an IPL session is non-ionizing light, meaning it does not have the capacity to damage DNA in skin cells in the same way ionizing radiation does, such as X-rays or the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which have been clearly linked to an increased risk of skin cancer.
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Doctors’ Answers
As with any treatment, it is important to go to a qualified professional to minimize the risk of side effects or complications.
Several professors and organizations share an opinion on pulsed light epilators.
Professor Gérard Lorette
“We haven’t found any study indicating that these devices can make a skin tumor malignant or transform it. The theoretical risk is minimal.”
Professor Gérard Lorette’s comment on pulsed light devices suggests that he does not see a significant cancer risk associated with their use.
Nevertheless, he acknowledges there is always some theoretical level of risk, albeit minimal, due to exposure to light energy.
L’Anses
ANSES (the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety) expresses a concern that IPL could alter the appearance of precancerous skin lesions, making early detection more difficult and potentially delaying the diagnosis of serious conditions like melanoma.
This is important because early diagnosis is often crucial for successful skin cancer treatment.
It also emphasizes that the wavelengths used in IPL treatments are not in the UV carcinogenic spectrum, meaning they are not the type of ultraviolet light known to cause skin cancer.
According to ANSES, there is no direct evidence that IPL causes skin cancer.
Article to read: What are the contraindications for pulsed light hair removal?
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How to avoid “altering the color of precancerous lesions”?
Precancerous lesions are skin changes that are not cancerous but could become cancerous over time. It is essential to monitor them for any changes in size, shape, color, or texture that might indicate progression to skin cancer. If the color of a lesion is altered by exposure to pulsed light, it could be more difficult for a doctor to detect these changes. That is why it is important not to alter the color of precancerous lesions.
Cover moles and other marks
Before undertaking any form of hair removal, especially with pulsed light, it is crucial to cover moles, freckles, and any other suspicious skin lesion. These areas can be sensitive to exposure to intense light, and their color could be altered, making it difficult to spot any potentially suspicious change.
For this, we recommend using a white pencil or a bandage to cover the areas in question.
Consult a specialist
It is recommended to consult a dermatologist or another healthcare professional before starting pulsed light hair removal sessions, particularly if you have moles or skin lesions. They can evaluate these areas to ensure they are not precancerous or malignant and provide specific guidance on how to protect them during IPL sessions.
Conclusion
Too little research has been conducted on the subject of pulsed light and the potential dangers it may pose to the skin.
It is therefore always recommended to consult a dermatologist before undergoing intense pulsed light treatments, especially if you have moles or suspicious skin lesions. Moles and skin lesions should always be avoided during IPL treatments.
FAQ
IPL uses a range of light wavelengths to target hair follicles and inhibit hair growth.
While IPL does produce types of light found in the electromagnetic spectrum, it does not produce ionizing radiation, which is the kind associated with cancer risks.
Feel free to consult a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns about IPL hair removal and cancer risk.
