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Use of intense pulsed light and a retinyl‐based cream as a potential treatment for cellulite: a pilot study
Author(s) -
Fink Joshua S,
Mermelstein Harold,
Thomas Andrew,
Trow Robert
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
journal of cosmetic dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.626
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1473-2165
pISSN - 1473-2130
DOI - 10.1111/j.1473-2165.2006.00258.x
Subject(s) - medicine , cellulite , dermatology , intense pulsed light , buttocks , surgery , cellulitis
Summary Background There are few therapeutic treatments established for cellulite. Objective We studied the response of intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment with or without a compounded prescription retinyl‐based cream on a small group of patients who had visible cellulite present on the buttocks and thigh regions. Patients and methods Twenty patients were selected to complete a 12‐week course of IPL treatment either with or without a retinyl‐based cream. Assessment was based on visual evaluation, photographs, skin ultrasounds, and patient satisfaction. Results Fifteen (75%) completed the study, and nine (60%) had a self‐improvement rating of ≥ 50%. Seven (78%) of nine patients used IPL/cream. Of the remaining six (40%) completing the study, four (27%) had self‐improvement ratings of 25–50% and two (13%; IPL only) were considered treatment failures with a rating of 10–25%. Both IPL/cream and IPL‐only groups exhibited an improvement in the smoothness of the affected area even following weight gain. Skin ultrasounds confirmed an increase in the deposition of collagen. During an 8‐month phone follow‐up, 8 (67%) of 12 responding reported the same or improved results. Conclusion IPL treatment with or without a retinyl‐based cream can improve the appearance of peau d’orange cellulite, though the cream may augment cosmetic improvement. This approach is well tolerated, has minimal side effects, and is accompanied by a high degree of patient satisfaction.