Use of intense pulsed light and a retinyl-based cream as a potential treatment for cellulite: a pilot study.
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.


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 >or= 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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Fink
Joshua S
JS
jdhiland@aol.com
Mermelstein
Harold
H
Thomas
Andrew
A
Trow
Robert
R
D000273:Adipose Tissue; D000328:Adult; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004224:Diterpenes; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D000084562:Retinyl Esters; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014801:Vitamin A / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000975:Antioxidants; D004224:Diterpenes; D000084562:Retinyl Esters; D014801:Vitamin A; C014794:retinol palmitate