Whether you’re considering seeking IPL via a trained professional or with an at home device, this should serve as a good starting point to know where to look. IPL offers a less targeted approach that the likes of Laser, but it is fundamentally similar in it’s workings.
Both IPL and laser have limitations with certain hair and skin types, so talking with a specialist may be a good way to find which will be the most effective for a person.
You must wear eye protection while using an IPL device. Sunglasses are insufficient and using them puts you at significant risk of damaging your eyesight permanently. Only use protective glasses with the appropriate rating, from a reputable seller.
How Does IPL Work?
IPL emits pulses of light energy at it’s tip. Because darker materials will absorb light energy more readily than others, the melanin (dark pigment) in the hair follicle will soak up more heat than the surrounding skin in order to effectively cauterise it’s blood supply. This destroys the growth cells surrounding the root of the hair so they can’t grow back.
This process can only work where a hair’s growth cells are still making direct contact with the hair (so that heat can transfer from the hair into those growth cells), which is why this technology can only remove hairs while they’re in the growth phase of their cycle.
Only about 7% of body hair is in it’s growth phase at any given time, so repeated, regular treatments are a must.
IPL With Light Hair Or Dark Skin
Because the technology relies on a person’s hair absorbing energy from the light pulses to create heat, it has limitations with some hair and skin types.
For Fair Hair:
- Because fair hair reflects more light than it absorbs, these hairs may not absorb enough energy to be effectively destroyed.
For Dark Skin:
- Dark skin will absorb more light than the surrounding hairs, meaning that much of the light’s energy is lost. Effectively this will serve to warm up the skin and not destroy any hair.
If you’re planning on using an at home device, check the specifications first. Most products will have a table to show which skin tones or hair colours the device supports. There are some specialist devices which are capable of working on pale hairs, but generally speaking a person with fair hair will have much better success opting for an alternative hair removal method such as Electrolysis.
If you do have darker skin or lighter hair you may still find better results from other methods, even if an IPL product is listed as being supported. It’s not that IPL won’t work, but ultimately manufacturers are out there to sell you their products after all - a more effective treatment plan could save you money in the long run.
Types of IPL Devices
Professional IPL Devices
These are normally quite bulky pieces of equipment compared to the “at home” options. They work on the same principles as the smaller ones but are going to be significantly more powerful and adaptable.
- Setting: Administered by trained professionals in dermatology clinics or specialised centres.
- Wavelengths: Adjustable settings for varying skin tones and hair colours.
- Benefits: Tailored treatment plans with a more powerful device for optimal results.
Home IPL Devices
- Availability: Compact devices for personal use, available for purchase.
- Wavelengths: Generally designed for a broader range of skin tones and hair colours.
- Benefits: Convenient for at-home use, with progressively effective results.
Consistency in treatment sessions is key for successful IPL outcomes, regardless of the device type. You will not see huge results after one session.