While IPL hair removal devices are generally considered safe, it is essential to adhere to certain precautions to ensure their effective and safe use. Excessive flashing, exceeding the recommended number of sessions, or neglecting necessary preparations can lead to adverse effects rather than benefits.
Are you apprehensive about the potential side effects associated with IPL devices? Do you feel anxious about conducting your own hair removal sessions without risking damage to your skin or eyes? Or perhaps you’re contemplating abandoning at-home laser hair removal in favor of professional treatments?
Let me assure you that IPL is actually one of the most effective and user-friendly techniques for achieving long-lasting hair removal, and it’s not nearly as daunting as you might think. Provided you follow a few key guidelines for the use of IPL devices, there’s no need for excessive caution.
Here, we will outline essential information for safely using an IPL device at home.
How Frequently Should I Use My IPL Hair Removal Device at Home?
Each IPL device comes with specific instructions detailing the optimal usage method as well as recommended frequency. Some devices should be used biweekly, while others may be suggested for weekly use; certain models can even be safely applied more than twice a week.
Initial Treatment Sessions
The initial sessions, referred to as start-up treatments, are conducted until approximately 90% of your hair is effectively and persistently removed. With the Ulike device, users can safely utilize the device twice a week over three weeks to achieve optimal results without complications.
Ongoing Maintenance Sessions
To eliminate the remaining 10% of unwanted hair, a few maintenance sessions are necessary. For users of the Ulike device, one session every one to two months is sufficient. After completing these sessions, you can use the IPL hair removal device as needed.
Also Read: How Frequently Should I Use My IPL Hair Removal Device at Home?
How Long Does It Take for IPL Hair Removal Devices to Yield Results?
The duration required for each IPL device to produce results varies. On average, users can expect a significant reduction in hair regrowth within one to three months. With the Ulike Air3 IPL device, you could see noticeable results within just 3-4 weeks (*indicating a decrease in hair count sourced from third-party laboratory testing reports; individual outcomes may differ). In contrast, other devices, like the Philips IPL model, may take up to 12 weeks to achieve similar results.
Regardless of the individual device’s performance, IPL hair removal can last for up to six months. After this period, re-treatment will be necessary, but the convenience of IPL devices makes these follow-up sessions very manageable.
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Can I Use an IPL Device Daily at Home?
Before addressing this question, consider why you might feel the need to use an IPL device every day. If your answer is to achieve faster and superior results, let me clarify: this is a misconception. IPL technology targets hair follicles and roots; thus, if a follicle is devoid of hair, the IPL rays will have no effect.
Following each IPL session, hair is effectively destroyed, and it requires one to two days to regrow adequately. Consequently, the hair must be long enough to absorb the light effectively. Additionally, you should only apply the device once or twice to any given skin area.
Attempting to conduct IPL hair removal every day will actually hinder your treatment progress rather than accelerate it and could result in various side effects.
What Are the Consequences of Daily IPL Use?
In addition to delayed results, here are some potential side effects of overusing IPL hair removal devices:
Skin Irritation
IPL devices convert light to heat upon contact with the skin and hair, and frequent use can lead to skin irritation, resulting in redness or itching.
Skin Burning
Individuals with heightened skin sensitivity may experience burns and skin peeling with daily use of IPL hair removal devices.
If you currently have burns, you can find treatment options here.
Skin Sensitivity
If you believe your skin can withstand seven IPL sessions a week, consider testing this theory and observe how sensitive your skin may become. IPL devices can significantly enhance the skin's sensitivity to pain, touch, and burns.
Wasting of Flashes
Overusing IPL hair removal devices not only poses physical risks but can also lead to financial waste. IPL devices have a finite number of flashes, and excessive use diminishes their lifespan.
Best Practices for Using IPL Hair Removal Devices
Now that you understand the importance of adhering to your IPL hair removal treatment schedule, let's explore best practices to make your hair removal safer and more effective. Additionally, if you’re specifically interested in using an IPL device, you can refer to the comprehensive guide on utilizing devices like the Ulike Air 3.
Exfoliate Your Skin
Even with regular cleansing, our skin can accumulate impurities, dirt, and dead skin cells. Therefore, it is advisable to exfoliate your skin one to two days prior to your hair removal session to ensure thorough cleansing.
Exfoliation also helps eliminate loose or treated hair, enhancing the absorption of light into the hair follicles.
Shave Unwanted Hair
IPL rays are attracted to hair pigment. Longer hair can obstruct the device’s light from reaching the roots. Therefore, it is recommended to shave the hair either one day prior to or immediately before your hair removal session.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly Before Sessions
Tanned skin tends to absorb more light, and the heat can further damage already sunburnt skin. If you plan to utilize an IPL device, be sure to apply sunscreen regularly to maintain your skin’s natural tone.
This requires consistent reapplication of sunscreen on a daily basis. Here are some suggestions for the best sunscreens in 2024.
Use a Soothing Moisturizer After Each Session
Post-IPL sessions, the skin can become sensitive and prone to dehydration. Therefore, it is crucial to apply an ample amount of moisturizing lotion after each treatment to nourish the skin.
Wear Protective Glasses
While IPL hair removal devices are generally safe for the eyes, the bright flashes and UV rays can still cause damage. It’s advisable to wear protective black glasses to shield your eyes from any unforeseen hazards.
What to Avoid When Using IPL Hair Removal Devices
Several factors can hinder the effectiveness of IPL devices, some of which are listed below:
