What is IPL hair removal and does it work?

Most of us have heard of it, but what is IPL hair removal and does it really work? IPL treatments have been a hit with celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Khloe Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston. IPL can be used for a myriad of concerns such as stretch marks, acne scars, to prevent hair regrowth and much more.

Our Skincare Specialists have a combined experience of over ten years working with our top of the range IPL treatment system, and have had extensive training in IPL hair removal.

What is IPL?

Let us give you some detail as to what IPL is.

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and is a technique that is now widely used in the dermatology field. IPL is not the same as laser hair removal, although both do use light for treatment that is converted into heat energy that destroy cells that produce melanin or broken capillaries (to remove dark spots or spider veins) and also to destroy hair follicles. The main difference between the two is the type of light that they emit. Laser provides a single band of light colour to target a specific area or condition. In contrast, IPL provides a broad spectrum of light, covering a larger area and producing different light wavelengths. As a result, both provide high intensity, but IPL can be more controlled and therefore less likely to be as painful as a laser.

So how does IPL hair removal work?

The technology uses a high-powered flash gun to deliver a broad spectrum pulse of light. The technology is non-invasive, as it penetrates to the deeper layers of skin without damaging the top layers. The IPL treatment targets the pigment and destroys the hair follicle, getting rid of existing hair and also inhibiting further hair growth in that area. The machine gives off a safe, consistent heat distribution. At the same time, an advanced real-time cooling system keeps the skin protected.

Does IPL hair removal actually work?

Your hair grows in stages. The most effective time for the removal process using IPL is during the growth cycle, when the hair is still in its follicle. The IPL treatment works to get rid of the existing hair. In addition, it inhibits further hair growth in the area. IPL hair removal is a much longer-lasting treatment than shaving or waxing, and there is no down-time involved in this treatment.

Once the follicle is destroyed in the growth phase, its life cycle is stunted and the hair is eliminated. This means that as your treatment plan progresses, you will start seeing less repeated hair growth over time. This makes the IPL hair removal technique a much more permanent solution compared to others.

How much does IPL hair removal cost?

The price varies depending on the area being treated, but prices start from £40 per session for a small area such as the upper lip or centre brows. Most people receive 6-10 treatments performed 4-8 weeks apart. The duration of the treatment for each individual will depend on the area being treated. At Tay Medispa, we offer price reductions on block session bookings, saving you money overall on your treatments.

In comparison, if you were to spend £6 a month on disposable razors or new blades for shaving (not even including shaving foam and balm, that’s pretty generous!). That’s £72 a year. In 50 years, you will have spent at least £3,600 on shaving!

In the long-run, this could be an investment that could save you a lot of money.

How do I know IPL hair removal is right for me?

Our Skin Specialists are trained to conduct a consultation with patch test and health questionnaire, to make sure the treatment is right for you.

If you would like to find out, book a free consultation with us online.

To summarise

Finally, what are your thoughts on IPL hair removal? Is it something you have been considering?

If you have any questions for us, please feel free to contact us at info@taymedispa.co.uk or for more information, read our page on Permanent Hair Removal and 5 reasons to try IPL hair removal.

Hannah – Tay MediSpa