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Intense Pulsed Light or IPL is a non-invasive treatment method that uses broad-spectrum light to address various skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and aging. The technology functions by emitting various wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin and target specific chromophores, such as melanin in hair follicles or hemoglobin in blood vessels. This process causes the targeted chromophores to heat up and break down. Unlike lasers, an IPL device emits multiple wavelengths of pulsating light.
What we know:
There are observable changes in the overall microbial diversity on the skin post-IPL treatment, with some bacterial populations decreasing and others increasing (Liu et al., 2021).
A study found that IPL treatment significantly reduced the population of Cutibacterium acnes, and thereby inhibiting sebum secretion (Liu et al., 2021).
It was also seen that the relative abundance of Staphylococcus epidermidis increased (Liu et al., 2021).
Blue light specifically targets bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), IPL’s broader spectrum affects a wider range of chromophores, potentially leading to broader microbial changes (Serrage et al., 2024).
The changes in microbial populations due to IPL are often temporary, and after returns to its baseline state over time (Serrage et al., 2024).
Industry impact & potential:
By influencing the skin microbiome, IPL may provide therapeutic benefits for conditions linked to microbial imbalance, such as acne and rosacea. IPL could be incorporated into treatment regimens not only for cosmetic enhancements but also for the management of chronic skin conditions, thus broadening its clinical applications.
Our solution:
At Sequential, we conduct skin microbiome testing for your personalised skincare products. We have a database of 20,000 microbiome samples. We also have expert researchers and dermatologists that can advice you on an ingredient or product.
Reference:
Liu, Jiexiong & Liu, Lu & Zhou, Lin & Chen, Lingna & Chen, Xia & Xiong, Xia & Deng,
Yongqiong. (2021). The Effect of Intense Pulsed Light on the Skin Microbiota and Epidermal Barrier in Patients with Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 53. 10.1002/lsm.23426.
Serrage HJ, O' Neill CA, Uzunbajakava NE. Illuminating microflora: shedding light on the
potential of blue light to modulate the cutaneous microbiome. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2024 Apr 10;14:1307374. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1307374. PMID: 38660491; PMCID: PMC11039841.
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