Laser hair removal has always been a popular choice for long term hair removal as it is less painful than waxing and the effects are much more long lasting than shaving. However, more salons are now using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) as an alternative to laser hair removal as it has all of the same benefits but is generally considered to be safer for the client.
IPL hair removal works by using a device that emits light. This light travels through the skin to the hair follicle as it is attracted to the melanin in the hair. The light generates heat within the follicle which is powerful enough to destroy the follicle through thermal damage which means the hair will not grow back. The darker the hair is, the more damage that will be caused to the follicle because there is more heat generated.
People of all skin types can use IPL including very fair skin and darker skin. However, it may not be effective on people who have blonde, red or grey hair as the light is attracted to the pigments found in dark hair. IPL works best on people with fair skin and dark hair.
Most people will need at least six treatment sessions to achieve permanent hair reduction but this will depend on the individual’s skin type and hair color. Some areas of the body will respond to treatment quicker than others. IPL is safe or use on almost all areas of the body and face, except for around the eyes. Each treatment should be carried out at least two weeks apart. The length of time each treatment will take depends on the size of the face or body that is being treated.
IPL is not completely painless but most people find that the treatment does not cause them a great deal of discomfort. A small degree of pain is felt due to the heat that is generated in order to destroy the hair follicle. However, most instruments have a cooling device that is built in which helps to minimize this pain in most people. Devices that are used to administer IPL often allow the beautician to choose between a number of settings and so if a client does find the treatment too painful then they may be able to switch to a lower setting.
After a person has received several IPL treatments the hair should not grow back. If the hair does begin to grow back this may be because of hormonal changes in the individual. There are also a small number of people that find that they do not respond to IPL treatments. However, instances of hair re-growth are very rare and most people will find that this does not affect them.
In recent years IPL has become a popular alternative to laser hair removal treatment. IPL works by emitting light to the hair follicle which generates heat that damages the follicle, preventing hair from growing back. Most people can benefit from using IPL but it works best on people with light skin and dark hair. A number of treatments are needed for IPL to be truly effective. Although the procedure is not completely pain free, it does not cause significant discomfort to the majority of people.
