Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam 2026 - Free Esthetician Practice Questions and Study Guide

Light skin can indeed be a contraindication for IPL (Intense Pulse Light) treatments primarily due to the way IPL technology operates. This treatment uses specific wavelengths of light that target melanin in the skin. In individuals with lighter skin tones, there is less melanin present, which can affect the efficiency and safety of the treatment.

When using IPL, there is a risk that the device might either not produce the desired results due to insufficient melanin for the light to target or, conversely, cause adverse effects. For instance, the light could potentially lead to over-treatment, resulting in skin damage, such as blistering or hyperpigmentation, especially if the technician is not skilled in adjusting the settings according to skin type.

Therefore, providers often take into account the Fitzpatrick skin typing system, which categorizes skin types based on their reaction to sun exposure and potential to tan or burn. Choosing to be cautious with IPL on lighter skin types ensures client safety and effectiveness of the treatment.