IPL Hair Removal

A relative newcomer to the hair removal scene is IPL, or intense pulsed light. Like laser hair removal, IPL uses a specific light beam to target hair follicles, causing permanent damage to the follicle so that hair cannot grow back. While this is similar to the method used in laser hair removal, the light used for the process is safer for a wider variety of skin types than some of the laser lights used for the same purpose.

Some of the advantages to IPL hair removal treatments include:

• The light beam may be safe for a wider spectrum of skin tones and hair colours than some other types of lasers
• The FDA has approved IPL for permanent hair reduction
• IPL hair removal may be more cost effective than laser treatments, because there is less time involved
• There is less risk of skin damage from an IPL treatment than laser hair removal
• IPL lends itself well to larger areas of hair removal
• IPL is reported as less painful than laser hair removal by many patients

There are also a few drawbacks to IPL hair removal, including:

• The treatment has not been used as long for hair removal, so long term effects of IPL have not been documented
• There may not be as many practitioners experienced in IPL as in laser hair removal procedures
• Multiple sessions of IPL will be required to achieve desired results
• Some patients still report a level of discomfort during IPL procedures
• Skin damage can occur, particularly if the practitioner is not experienced or trained properly in the procedure

Which hair removal procedure is the right choice for you? It depends on the laser clinic you choose, your skin tone and the colour of your hair. You will also need to choose based on the number of sessions you want to schedule and the level of pain you are comfortable with. Learn more today about the pros and cons of IPL hair removal and laser hair removal by scheduling with a hair removal specialist near you!