IPL Hair Reduction

Over the past decade there has been a tremendous growth in the field of laser technology for hair removal. Perhaps the most common form of this technology is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). This laser is used to permanently reduce hair on any desired area of the body, including sensitive areas such as the face and bikini line. IPL technology can also be used to remove sun spots and other marks on the skin.

IPL and Hair Reduction

IPL treatments implement a wide range of light energy wavelengths that can target and stimulate different skin structures at the same time. With the help of a large spectrum multiple wavelength beam, IPL provides excellent hair follicle destruction, which is permanent in nature. It also treats skin pigmentation, stimulates collagen regeneration and minimises visible blood vessels.

How Does IPL Work?

The pigment (melanin) present in the hair follicles of your skin absorbs the light and is converted into heat. This in turn loosens the hair follicle and the cells are disabled which are responsible for the growth of new hair. Thus IPL can treat thousands of hair follicle at one shot.

Is IPL Treatment Safe?

This treatment is extremely safe in the hands of an expert. An IPL system can deliver light energy to the hair and skin gently, unlike previous laser systems. An inbuilt cooling system in the IPL handpiece protects and cools the skin during the treatment.

Is IPL Painful?

IPL treatments are not painful, but sometimes there will a burning sensation (similar to sunburn) after every treatment for at least a couple of hours. IPL treatment is almost painless compared to waxing, especially when it comes to treating delicate areas like bikini line, upper lip or any other facial hair. The sensation has been described as rubber bands flicking lightly against the skin.

Is IPL Treatment Permanent?

A 100 per cent permanent hair removal success rate is highly unlikely; however, a permanent reduction is definitely possible. The hair that grows back will be noticeably lighter and finer.

How Many IPL Treatments are Required?

IPL is very effective during the active phase of hair growth as the melanin present in the hair bulb allows IPL to destroy every hair follicle permanently. Hair growth has three stages that are constantly targeted in the course of the treatment. IPL hair removal treatments are usually spaced four to eight weeks apart. An average number of overall sessions is about eight to ten, depending on skin and hair type and the area targeted. Light coloured hair will probably require more sessions as this treatment is more effective on dark hair.