The amount of pain or discomfort experienced with IPL hair removal will of course vary with the individual, depending on personal pain thresholds, skin type, and how sensitive the area being treated is. Generally, the feeling is described as a discomfort rather than a pain. This discomfort has been commonly described as a stinging sensation, compared to that of hot oil or an elastic band hitting the skin, followed by a sensation of heat. It is not unusual for an anaesthetic cream to be used to numb any pain if it is a sensitive area that is being treated. The use of coolants and cooling gels can also help relieve the discomfort caused by the heat of the light. Because of the heat targeting pigment in the skin, people with darker skin tones are likely to experience more discomfort than those with paler ones, as they tend to heat up more. Measures are usually taken to ensure that the discomfort is not too great during the procedure, and afterwards it is common for the treated area to feel a little sore or feel as though it is sunburnt. However, this feeling should subside after a day or two. If the pain is too intense or persists for longer than a couple of days, make sure you contact your practitioner immediately.
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