Are you in search of an IPL device to effectively eliminate unwanted hair from your body and face? Perhaps you're considering the Philips Lumea IPL device due to its widespread acclaim, but you're uncertain about which model from the Philips Lumea range is the best fit for your needs.
In this article, we will address your questions and assist you in selecting a model that will meet your expectations. Philips Lumea offers several series, including the Lumea 9000, Prestige, Advanced, and Essential. The Lumea 9000 and Prestige are among the latest IPL devices introduced by Philips.
Both series feature multiple models that differ slightly in aspects such as color or the number of flashes. Furthermore, these two devices share similarities in design, skin tone compatibility, usability, and efficiency, although they also exhibit some key differences.
Thus, our focus in this article will be a comprehensive overview of the Philips Lumea 9000 and Prestige models.
Also Read: Ulike vs. Nood: Which IPL Hair Remover Reigns Supreme?
Philips Lumea 9000 vs. Philips Prestige
Let’s delve into a thorough comparison of the similarities and differences between these two renowned Philips Lumea series.
Philips Lumea Prestige1. Design and Attachments: Winner – Lumea 9000
In terms of design, both devices are strikingly similar, adopting a gun-shaped form factor. Each device features a button on the handle that allows for continuous light flashing, while several smaller buttons located above the head control the device's power, intensity, and mode settings.
The Philips Lumea series is available in two types of models based on the number of attachments. The Lumea BRI957 and BRI958 come equipped with four attachment heads for different areas such as the face, bikini line, body, and underarms. Conversely, the Lumea BRI955 includes three attachment heads designed for the face, body, and precision. All models in the Philips Lumea Prestige series are furnished with four attachments.
Notably, the Philips Lumea 9000 offers the flexibility of being used cordlessly or with a power cord. Unfortunately, the Lumea Prestige lacks this cordless option, giving the slight advantage to the Philips 9000 series for its enhanced usability.
2. Number of Flashes: Winner – Lumea 9000
The Philips Lumea 9000 series boasts an impressive 450,000 flashes, translating to a bulb lifespan of over 20 years. In contrast, the Lumea Prestige allows for only 250,000 flashes, with a bulb lifespan exceeding 10 years.
It’s important to note that neither device features a replaceable bulb, meaning you'll need to purchase a new unit after the bulb reaches the end of its life. Thus, the Philips 9000 series stands out as the more long-lasting option.
3. Speed of Use and Efficiency: Winner – A Tie
With the Philips Lumea 9000, you can treat both legs in merely 10 minutes, while a complete body session takes around 40-50 minutes. The Lumea Prestige matches this speed, allowing for a full-body IPL hair removal session in approximately one hour.
When it comes to efficiency, both devices yield comparable results, achieving up to 92% hair reduction within just six weeks, given that sessions are recommended every two weeks. Therefore, after three sessions, you can expect more than 90% hair removal.
4. Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility: Winner – A Tie
Since IPL devices rely on the contrast between hair and skin color, certain tones may be incompatible. Both the Philips Lumea 9000 and Prestige share an identical compatibility range.
These devices can be used effectively on very fair, beige, light brown, and medium brown skin tones, but are not suitable for very dark brown or black skin tones. Additionally, they effectively treat black, brown, and dark blonde hair. If you have white, grey, ginger, or light blonde hair, you may need to consider alternative options like laser or electrolysis.
5. Safety of Use: Winner – Both
Both Philips Lumea devices prioritize user safety. They incorporate integrated UV light filters designed to shield the skin from harmful radiation. Additionally, they are equipped with smart-skin sensors featuring senselQ technology, which automatically adjusts the intensity settings based on your skin tone and hair color.
Moreover, both devices will only emit flashes when in contact with the skin, preventing unwanted activation on incompatible skin types, thereby enhancing safety. There is no difference in the safety features between the Philips Lumea 9000 and Prestige.
Lastly, both Philips Lumea devices have received CE clearance based on clinical evaluations, although they have not yet been approved by the FDA.
6. Convenience: Winner – Philips Lumea 9000
Both the Philips Lumea 9000 and Prestige feature five intensity levels, allowing you to effectively target hair from fine to coarse on various body parts. Their gun-shaped designs offer a comfortable grip. However, both devices are relatively heavy, which could lead to hand fatigue during extended sessions.
