What Is the IPL or Laser Hair Removal Treatment Process?
IPL and laser hair removal treatments begin with cleansing the targeted area to rid it of any lotions, oils or makeup. The device is calibrated based on factors such as skin color and hair thickness.
The handpiece is then placed against the skin while it emits light. It is moved methodically through the treatment zone, ensuring complete and even coverage. Once the session concludes, a soothing topical product or cold compress might be applied.
The duration of each hair removal session can vary. While a smaller area like the upper lip might be addressed in mere minutes, more expansive regions such as the back or legs could require up to an hour.
Are IPL and Laser Hair Removal Painful?
The sensation is often described as a series of light snaps against the skin, akin to the feeling of a rubber band being gently flicked. Individual pain thresholds vary, and some areas of the body may be more sensitive than others, but most patients find the treatment tolerable.
One of the standout features of our IPL and laser systems is their integrated contact cooling technology. These advanced features cool the skin’s surface to make the treatment significantly more comfortable and protect the skin from thermal injury.
What Is the Downtime and Recovery After IPL and Hair Removal?
There is virtually no downtime with IPL hair removal or laser hair removal. Most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after the session, with minimal side effects that do not impede regular routines.
The treated area may exhibit some redness and/or swelling after the session. The appearance is similar to that of a mild sunburn and usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days.
Your skin can be more sensitive after a hair removal session. Protect it from sun exposure, heat exposure and any skincare products that can be irritating. Use a gentle moisturizer to nourish your skin and alleviate any feelings of tightness or dryness that might occur post-treatment.
What Results Can Be Achieved With IPL or Laser Hair Removal?
The effects of IPL or laser hair removal become evident relatively quickly. After the initial session, you may notice a reduction in hair regrowth within two to three weeks. With each subsequent session, the reduction becomes more pronounced, and some patients experience up to an 80-90% reduction in new hair growth. Hairs that do regrow are often finer and lighter in color.
The results achieved with IPL or laser are long-lasting. No method can guarantee complete and permanent hair removal, however, the convenience and duration of the results make these technologies a near-permanent solution to unwanted hair. Results can be maintained with occasional touch-up sessions scheduled as needed, once a year or even less frequently.
How Many Treatment Sessions May Be Needed?
Hair grows in a cycle with multiple stages. IPL and laser hair removal are most effective when targeting hair in its active growth phase. Given that not all hairs are in this phase simultaneously, multiple sessions ensure that a majority of hair follicles are treated effectively over time.
On average, most patients require six to eight sessions to achieve optimal hair reduction. This range is a general guideline, and the exact number can vary based on individual factors such as hair color, skin tone and hair density in the targeted area, as well as whether IPL or laser technology is used.
Sessions are typically scheduled four to six weeks apart. Spacing sessions appropriately allows the treatment to target hair in the right growth phase, maximizing the reduction achieved in each appointment.
