Laser And IPL Hair Reduction

Hair reduction and removal is in great demand at present, with the majority of people being keen to find a more lasting solution to the problem of unwanted hair. Shaving, waxing and depilatory creams only remove hair on a short term basis, so men and women alike are instead turning to laser and IPL (intense pulsed light) hair reduction.

IPL is now preferred because it is widely considered to be safer than laser, with a lower risk of burning and lasting skin depigmentation. This uses powerful bursts of white light, which is absorbed by the hair follicles, which heat up as a result. The heat destroys the hair follicle, meaning that it cannot regrow. This technique, regardless of whether laser or IPL is used, will only destroy active hair follicles, which is only about 20 percent of those that are present. This means that several treatments will be required, as more hair follicles activate over time. Sessions should be approximately four to six weeks apart.

Although the risks of using IPL are lower than lasers, care should still be taken. You should have a full consultation before your treatment takes place, to ensure that your skin and hair types are appropriate. Pale skin and dark hair give the best results. This also helps to reduce the risk of skin depigmentation. The treatment itself should not be painful, but you will need to take precautions such as using sunscreen afterwards, to reduce the risk of burning when you are exposed to the sunlight. Your skin will be more sensitive for a while after each treatment.

*Individual results may vary