- What is Intense Pulsed Light?
- How does it differ from laser hair removal?
- Am I a candidate?
- What hair can I remove?
- How many sessions will it take?
- Are there any risks?
- How should I prepare?
- What should I expect?
- How can I find a clinic in my area?
What is Intense Pulsed Light?
Intense Pulsed Light, also known as IPL, is used for both skin rejuvenation and hair removal. Though initially approved by the FDA in 1997, it was primarily used to treat various skin conditions, during which both doctors and patients observed hair loss as a result.Cheaper and faster than Laser Hair Removal, IPL has become a very popular option for hair removal. While its effectiveness in comparison to laser hair removal is debated amongst scientists, practitioners and equipment manufacturers, resulting hair reduction is generally accepted to be roughly equivalent.
The process uses a focused, broad-spectrum light and applies it to the surface of the skin, using the light to travel through the skin and attacking the root of the hair. It is here where the highest concentration of melanin is located. As the light is converted to heat energy, the root and most of the hair shaft are instantly vaporized. The intense heat radiated by the hair also destroys the hair-producing papilla or the entire hair follicle.
IPL is generally effective for skin types I-V (1-5) on the Fitzpatrick Scale.
How does it differ from laser hair removal?
Unlike laser hair removal, which uses a single light wavelength (making it capable of targeting individual hairs), IPL uses a full spectrum of light wavelengths. While this makes it capable of treating larger patches of hair in a fraction of the time (such as that of the back or legs), some professionals claim that this full spectrum of light wavelengths offers less precision and control, which could make skin more susceptible to burns and irritation if performed improperly. It's always important to have highly trained professional performing your treatment.One of the biggest reasons why IPL is so popular in the hair removal industry is due to its low cost in comparison to traditional laser hair removal.
In regard to which method is better, it depends on who you ask. Some claim IPL is the faster hair removal solution due to its capability of treating larger patches of hair all at once. Others claim that laser hair removal is by far more efficient and that IPL hair removal is often more time consuming in the long run (the reason being that while each individual IPL treatment is quicker, it tends to take more of these treatments to see desired results).
Both methods can cause discomfort, though some claim IPL to be slightly less painful.
Am I a candidate?
As with laser hair removal, IPL can be performed on almost any skin color and hair type; however, hair color is the most important factor in determining success. Dark hair is treated most effectively, while treatments performed on red, blonde, and gray hair are generally not as effective.What hair can I remove?
As with laser hair removal, treatment is commonly done on lip, chin, ear lobe, shoulders, back, underarm, abdomen, buttocks, pubic area, bikini lines, thighs, face, neck, chest, arms, legs, hands, and toes.How many sessions will it take?
Generally, a set of 6-12 treatments at 4-6 week intervals—depending on the type of hair and skin color—are required for long-term reduction of hair. The number of sessions depends on various parameters, including the area of the body treated, skin color, coarseness of hair, etc. Coarse dark hair on light skin is easiest to treat, while hair on darker skin is harder to treat. Finer hair is only sometimes affected, while select areas may require considerably more treatments to achieve desired results.Are there any risks?
Following the procedure, patients often notice some redness, swelling and sorenss; however, this usually subsides after a day or two.Though rare, pigment changes may darken the affected skin (similar to a suntan), though this will usually resolve itself with time (weeks to months). Alternatively, too much IPL absorption can leave pale patches on the skin, though these too will usually resolve themselves with time.
Other rare side effects include blistering, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Darker skin is particularly vulnerable, as is recently tanned skin.
How should I prepare?
Prior to treatment, schedule a consultation. This visit will be used to determine your skin type and the kind of hair you have to make sure IPL is right for you. You will be given an explanation about the risks vs. benefits, expectations, pricing, etc. This is also when you should ask any questions you may have about the procedure.You will also be given instructions/advice about how to prepare for your IPL treatment: avoid tanning for at least a month (if you have a dark tan, your treatment may be delayed until it fades), stop waxing, plucking, and using depilatory creams for at least 3-4 weeks, etc. Shaving is fine up until 2-3 days before treatment as a certain amount of hair growth is required for the IPL technician to assess your hair type and density and properly target the area being treated.
Pricing can also vary greatly, so it's a good idea to visit multiple clinics before making a decision.
What should I expect?
Prior to laser hair removal, you will be given special goggles to shield your eyes from the light generated by the IPL device. The practitioner will then apply flashes of light to the surface of your skin to attack the root of the hair.The pain experienced is generally minimal and less than that of laser hair removal; however, many patients still find it to be slightly uncomfortable. Most describe the pain as a small stinging sensation similar to a small rubber band snapping your skin. Discomfort tends to vary with each person depending on pain threshold and the type of machine used.
A gel may also be applied to the treated area to improve results. If you are having this treatment in a sensitive area, you may require an anesthetic cream.
Please note that depending on the area being treated, you may be asked to change out of your clothing. Appropriate replacements, such as a gown or disposable underwear, will be provided.