Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) systems function by using specific cutoff filters to control the spectrum of light entering the skin. Programs labeled 520nm, 560nm, and 580nm are designed to block shorter, harmful wavelengths while transmitting light that is highly absorbed by melanin, generating a concentrated photothermal effect to shatter superficial pigment clusters.
The Core Mechanism Wavelengths in the 500nm range represent a "high-affinity, shallow-depth" treatment zone. They are aggressively absorbed by melanin and oxyhemoglobin, making them highly effective for destroying surface-level pigmentation (like freckles) but requiring careful handling to avoid overheating the surrounding skin.
The Function of Cutoff Filters
Understanding the "Cutoff" Number
When you select a "560nm" program, you are not selecting a single wavelength of light. You are applying a filter that blocks all light below 560nm.
Spectrum Transmission
The filter allows the spectrum above the cutoff (e.g., 560nm to 1200nm) to pass through to the tissue. This eliminates high-energy ultraviolet or blue light, which improves safety, while preserving the wavelengths required for treatment.
Targeting Melanin and Oxyhemoglobin
High Absorption Rates
The primary reference notes that wavelengths in the 520nm to 580nm range have a very high absorption rate by two key targets: melanin (pigment) and oxyhemoglobin (blood).
The Photothermal Effect
Because melanin absorbs this light energy so efficiently, the light is rapidly converted into heat. This creates a strong photothermal effect specifically within the pigmented lesion.
Pigment Fragmentation
The intense heat causes the pigment clusters to shatter or fragment. This biological destruction is the first step in clearing the lesion.
Treating Superficial Lesions
Ideal for Surface Pigment
These shorter wavelengths do not penetrate deeply into the dermis. Therefore, they are specifically optimized for superficial pigmentary lesions, such as freckles and solar lentigines (sun spots).
The Elimination Process
Once the pigment is fragmented, the body's natural processes take over. As noted in the supplementary data, the debris is either sloughed off the skin's surface (often appearing as tiny dark crusts) or removed internally by the lymphatic system over 7 to 14 days.
Understanding the Trade-offs
The Risk of Thermal Damage
The high absorption rate of these wavelengths is a double-edged sword. While it ensures efficacy against pigment, it creates a risk of uniform heating that can burn the skin if not managed correctly.
Pulse Width Importance
To mitigate this risk, operators must balance the wavelength selection with appropriate pulse widths. This ensures the target is destroyed without transferring excessive heat to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Skin Type Limitations
Because these wavelengths are so aggressively absorbed by melanin, they pose a higher risk for darker skin types. The system may inadvertently heat the melanin in the skin's background rather than just the lesion.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Selecting the correct filter is a balance between the depth of the lesion and the protection of the epidermis.
- If your primary focus is light skin with dark freckles: The 520nm or 560nm filters are ideal as they offer the highest absorption for superficial "shattering" of pigment.
- If your primary focus is safety on slightly darker skin tones: Shifting to a 580nm or higher cutoff reduces melanin absorption slightly, offering a wider safety margin against burns.
Success relies on utilizing the high absorption of the 500nm range to shatter pigment while strictly managing pulse duration to prevent thermal injury.
Summary Table:
| Filter Wavelength | Primary Target | Skin Penetration | Ideal Clinical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 520nm / 560nm | High Melanin/Oxyhemoglobin | Superficial (Shallow) | Freckles, sun spots, and light skin pigmentation |
| 580nm | Melanin / Deeper Vessels | Moderate | Darker skin tones or deeper vascular/pigment lesions |
| Mechanism | Photothermal Effect | N/A | Fragmentation of pigment clusters for natural elimination |
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References
- Deniz Aksu Arıca, Sevgi Bahadır. The first-year experience of a university hospital laser unit. DOI: 10.4274/turkderm.galenos.2018.21284
This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .
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