You’d think that after working as a beauty editor for close on 15 years, I’d have tried laser hair removal. I’m almost embarrassed to admit that until two weeks ago, I hadn’t (GASP!)
The reasons were many, but mainly because I’m a bit of a sissy when it comes to pain. Also, anything that requires a ‘beauty commitment’ makes me a little nervous (perhaps I have commitment issues?). Also, so many myths and untruths abound about IPL, that I wasn’t sure it was for me.
As I get older though, I’m starting to realise that I just can’t continue shaving my legs forever. Especially when there are so many great hair removal techniques around.
Time to man up Candice, time to man up!
So, when I was asked by Legs eleven to pop into their Green Point salon and try IPL laser hair removal, I agreed.
I’ll be doing more posts about my treatments (inc. a video), but in the interim, I thought I’d outline some facts and dispel the common myths surrounding IPL.
What is IPL laser?
In a nutshell, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a modern version of laser. With IPL, you can perform a wider range of applications across more skin types. Basically, the light targets the pigment in the hair to destroy the hair follicle, without causing any damage to the surrounding tissue.
Legs eleven uses the latest I2PL technology that has been approved to treat all skin types, including darker skins.
It’s also important to note that I2PL laser treatments are more comfortable – you don’t need ice packs and aesthetic gel. It’s also more affordable than traditional laser, and treatment times are faster as larger areas can be treated per shot. In addition, I2PL improves overall skin tone and texture, while healing and preventing in-grown hairs.
What does a treatment feel like – is it painful?
No, it’s not painful. I’d best describe it as similar to the feeling of an elastic band snapping on the skin. It’s a lot less painful than waxing and electrolysis.
Is IPL expensive?
When you compare it to the (very) high lifetime cost of temporary hair removal methods like shaving (razors are ridiculously expensive), waxing or creams, I2PL is the most cost effective method – saving you time & money in the long term.
Can it be used on dark skin?
Yes. The I2PL technology is suitable to use on skin types from European to African.
Can you explain how it’s done?
A rectangular hand piece is placed onto the skin and controlled flashes of light are delivered to the area as the hand piece is moved within the marked region. The pigment in the hairs absorbs the light, and the heat is then transferred to the hair follicles, which are destroyed.
How many treatments does one need to completely eliminate hair?
It’s not possible to complete I2PL hair removal in one session, as the hair grows in many phases. You’ll need an average of 6 to 8 treatments, but this varies slightly from person to person.
How often should one go for treatments?
Every 6-8 weeks, depending on the area of the body you’re treating. At first, you’ll require sessions more often (on average, 8 weeks apart). As the hair takes longer to reappear, your session will be spaced progressively farther apart – up to 3 to 4 month intervals.
But why can’t I do my session closer together?
If your treatment sessions are too close together (e.g. 4 to 6 weekly), it will be a waste of your time and money, since the “dormant” hair follicles in the area will not yet have moved into the appropriate growth phase.
Do I need downtime to recover from my I2PL treatment?
No – I2PL is a non-invasive procedure. You may experience a slight redness or warmness at the treatment site, but this typically goes away within an hour.
Is I2PL only limited to legs, arms and bikini?
No. Almost any area of the face and body can be treated on both males and females.
I’ve heard there’s no real evidence or proof to show that IPL results are long-lasting.
Legs Eleven’s I2PL technology is clinically proven to permanently remove up to 80-90% of unwanted hair after 6-8 treatments. And the results are long lasting.
Because of the body’s hair growth cycle (hair follicles go through resting and growing phases), 100% permanent hair removal cannot be guaranteed with any light-based hair removal technology (laser or IPL). Any remaining stray hair that may appear over time will grow more slowly and will be much finer, lighter and easy to remove. Once a full course of treatments has been completed, customers may choose to have an occasional touch up session every few years or so.
Is it true that you can’t shave between laser sessions and have to allow your hair to grow long?
No! You can shave between your treatments. Legs eleven recommends you stop shaving 3 to 5 days before each appointment, so they can assess the hair growth to customize the settings for your treatment.
You shouldn’t wax, tweeze, thread, epilate, bleach or use depilatory creams or electrolysis for at least 4 weeks prior to your first I2PL treatment and in between treatments.
Can IPL and laser treat grey, red and very blonde hair?
Because I2PL and laser target the pigment – melanin in the hair – ‘true’ blonde, red and grey hairs are not treatable. In some cases clients may think their hair is ‘blonde,’ when in actual fact, it’s a ‘light to medium brown’ and can definitely be treated. It is important to check the root of the hair because if it is dark, it can generally be treated by I2PL.
Do I need to do a patch test prior to booking my first IPL treatment?
Yes. The salon should assess your medical history and examine your hair and skin type. Doing a patch test prior to your first treatment, will determine the optimal settings to use so you get the best results.
Below is a brilliant info graphic that will answer any questions you may still have
What’s the cost?
If you’ve always wanted to try IPL, Legs eleven have just launched a special introductory offer for new clients, where you can save up to 50% on your first treatment:
- R280 For an underarm or bikini treatment
- R380 For an underarm AND bikini treatment
Check out the Legs eleven website here to more information on pricing and treatments. Follow @LegselevenSA on Twitter and tweet any questions directly to MD of Legs eleven, Sue Vaz by #AskSue
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