IPL hair removal vs laser hair removal; what actually is the difference? So you’re sick of shaving and waxing, and would like to look into a more permanent solution. The two main treatment options are IPL hair removal and laser hair removal. Is there a difference between the two? Most importantly, which solution is best for you? There is a minefield of information online, all with contrasting (and sometimes biased) opinions on which is best. You might not have even known that there was a difference between IPL hair removal and laser hair removal. Let us give you the facts. Below we explain what the differences between IPL and laser are so you can make an informed decision about which treatment is right for you.
Laser and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) both use light rays to target melanin for hair removal. Although often discussed as the same treatment, they are in fact quite different. There is no clinical data to confirm whether IPL or laser is more effective in hair removal, contrary to what you might read online or hear from various clinics. However, there are several differences that may help you to decide which treatment solution is best for you.
What are the main differences between IPL and laser hair removal?
Technology differences between IPL and laser hair removal
IPL uses powerful broad spectrum light rays to treat various dermatological conditions, as well as providing an effective means of hair removal. When IPL was first developed, it was used only for medical and cosmetic purposes. Clinicians noticed that as well as improving skin conditions and repairing the skin, it left them with reduced amounts of hair on the treatment area. As a result, clinicians performed experiments to gauge the efficiency of IPL for hair removal, and the first hair removal system was approved for use in the mid-90’s. Technology has been developed over the years to block harmful wavelengths and the professional machines now also include cooling features to minimise any discomfort or pain experienced.
Laser hair removal uses a specific, targeted wavelength of light, concentrated to a direct beam targeting the melanin in the hair follicle alone. It was discovered that a laser could be used to partially damage the stem cells in hair follicles. The method was approved in the 90’s after various studies were conducted. Laser hair removal is effective as it targets only the hair follicle, and not any of the skin tissue surrounding it.
Is my skin type suitable? IPL hair removal vs laser hair removal
IPL for hair removal works best for light to medium skin tones. Although it may work on darker skin tones, there is a higher risk of skin discolouration or burning. A skincare expert will be able to advise if the treatment is right for your skin. They will do this by conducting a consultation and patch test.
Laser hair removal is safer for people with darker skin. As it is more directed to the hair follicle, it minimises damage to the surrounding skin. This is because darker skin tones have a higher concentration of melanin, which means that using a targeted device is preferable as the skin is less likely to burn and become damaged.
Which is more painful? IPL hair removal vs laser hair removal
First of all, both methods of hair removal can hurt. This can be dependant on your skin structure and pain tolerance levels, so for each person it is slightly different. Many have suggested that it is like being flicked with a fingernail while others compare it to getting a tattoo, or being flicked with a small rubber band. IPL is less painful than laser hair removal, but pain levels can be dependant on your body type.
Many professional IPL machines have a built in cooling system which actively cools the skin as the machine is operating. This considerably reduces any discomfort felt during the treatment. In addition, both IPL and laser can be adjusted to a lower intensity to reduce discomfort. However, lowering the intensity levels will impact the effectiveness of the results. Therefore, it’s mostly a balance as to what your pain threshold can manage, and what you would like to achieve in a specific time frame. It is important to visit an experienced clinician with a professional machine for a pain-free treatment.
Which method is safer; IPL hair removal vs laser hair removal
Both methods of hair removal are safe for the majority of people, and there do not appear to be any long-term health risks associated with either treatment. Some people may experience minor side effects after laser hair removal, such as blistering or scarring, but this is in a very rare few cases. There are no side effects reported with IPL.
An experienced skin expert will conduct a patch test and consultation to ensure that the treatment is safe and right for your skin.
IPL hair removal vs laser hair removal; which method is more effective?
Due to the broad spectrum of light rays that IPL machines use, they cover a larger surface area than laser machines. As a result, sessions are much quicker. If you have limited free time or are worried about extended periods of discomfort, IPL is the perfect choice.
As laser hair removal is much more targeted, treatment sessions can take quite a bit longer than IPL, especially for larger treatment areas such as the legs or back. However, the benefit to this is that you may not need to book follow-up treatments as frequently to maintain the results.
What next?
So to conclude, it really just depends on your skin type and the timescale you have to work with. Both methods are effective at reducing hair re-growth, but it will take time and multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. It is also important to ensure that you choose an experienced clinic with expert Skincare Therapists to carry out your treatment.
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Hannah – Tay MediSpa
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