IPL vs Laser Hair Removal: Important Facts to Know Before the Treatment

Unwanted hair growth has been an aesthetic concern for several people. They long to have flawless skin so they can confidently wear their sleeveless tank tops, mini skirts, comfy shorts, sexy bikinis, or little black dresses without the embarrassment of having unsightly hair on some parts of their bodies. While some resort to shaving, waxing, plucking, or threading, others are searching for a more permanent solution to hair removal.

 

Two main treatment choices are best left to the skin experts when it comes to hair removal: IPL hair removal and laser hair removal. It matters to seek the professional help of certified-board dermatologistsfor these medical treatments. As pertinent questions such as their differences and effectiveness have also been often asked, here are some important facts about IPL and laser hair removal that could guide you when making an informed decision on which is the best solution for you.

 

Overview of IPL Hair Removal and Laser Hair Removal

IPL (Intensed Pulsed Light) and Laser hair removal treatments use light rays to target melanin for hair removal. The light energy damages the hair root and lessens hair growth while leaving the surrounding areas unharmed. While they use light rays for hair removal, there are also differences in these procedures,

IPL utilizes powerful broad-spectrum light rays for hair removal. IPL was previously used for medical and cosmetic purposes but it was noticed that it also minimized hair on the treatment area. Experiments were conducted to check the efficiency of IPL for hair removal. It was first approved for use in the mid-90s.  

Laser hair removal utilizes a direct beam of light to aim at the melanin in the hair follicle. This damages the hair follicle to prevent future hair growth in the treated area. This method was approved in the 90s after several studies were performed on how a laser could be utilized to partly damage the stem cells in the hair follicles.


Essential Facts About IPL and Laser Hair Removal

A consultation must be conducted before the procedure. 

A consultation are conducted is needed before the treatment. This is primarily done to get the right settings that will effectively remove the hair.

Skin tone affects the result of IPL and Laser Hair Removal

IPL works best for people who have light to medium skin tones. It may work on darker skin tones but there is a higher possibility of skin discoloration or burning. Due to the broad beam of light used in IPL, olive or darker skin tone is in danger of being burned during treatment.

Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is safer for people who have darker skin. Since it is more targeted to the hair follicle, laser reduces damage to the surrounding skin. Using a targeted device for darker skin tones is better since there is a smaller chance for the skin to get burned and damaged.

 

Hair removal experience varies from one person to another.

Each person’s hair removal experience varies. While some may feel discomfort during the treatment, others may not feel any pain at all. Some describe the method as being flicked with a rubber band or fingernail while others liken it to getting a tattoo.

Many IPL machines now have a built-in cooling system that cools the skin as the machine works. This lessens the discomfort felt by the patient during the treatment. Both IPL and laser hair removal machines can be adjusted to a lesser intensity level to reduce pain but it can affect the effectiveness of the results. 

The duration of sessions for each hair removal treatment varies.

Laser hair removal more effectively removes hair so you need less sessions vs IPL

Laser hair removal achieves better results than IPL.  

Laser hair removal treatments are more concentrated than IPL. Their results last longer and there are fewer follow-up treatments required. Another factor that contributes to its effectiveness is its ability to treat more specific concerns than IPL. 

ALSO READ: 7 Types Of Underarm Hair Removal Methods To Help You Achieve Flawless Skin

Unwanted hair growth may be an aesthetic concern for some people but there are now hair removal treatments such as IPL and laser hair removal to reduce hair re-growth. Both methods are effective but it also depends on your skin type, pain tolerance, and schedule as it may require time and several sessions before you get your desired results. It also helps to consult a dermatologist who can extensively explain to you each method and assess your areas of concern to determine the right treatment for you. 

Skin MD has a team of board-certified dermatologistswho will personally attend to your particular needs, taking exquisite care in every consultation, treatment, and evaluation for you to achieve youthful skin, clear away wrinkles, and improve your confidence. Skin MD offers permanent hair reduction servicesso you can permanently remove unwanted hair as well as reduce excessive sweating. Stop your worries and say goodbye to unwanted hair in your underarm, upper lip, face, legs, back and chest, and bikini area. With flawless skin, you can gain the confidence to wear the things that you like.

 

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