For what type of lesions is the IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device typically used?

The IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device is commonly used for treating both pigmented and vascular lesions due to its ability to emit a range of wavelengths. This characteristic allows the device to target various chromophores—color-bearing structures in the skin. For pigmented lesions, such as age spots and sun damage, the light is absorbed by excess melanin, breaking down the pigmentation. Simultaneously, for vascular lesions like broken capillaries and rosacea, the light targets hemoglobin in blood vessels, leading to their reduction. This dual efficacy is what makes IPL a versatile tool in dermatological treatments, suitable for addressing both types of concerns effectively.

While it can be beneficial for acne scars, this is typically not its primary use, and the treatment is more complex and may involve additional modalities. As a result, the range of conditions that IPL can address is most accurately described as including both pigmented and vascular lesions rather than encompassing all skin lesions.