What do you need to know before starting your IPL hair treatment journey?
As IPL continues to be a popular hair reduction choice, we have listed some of the most frequently asked questions for those starting this treatment.
Are you tired of the endless cycle of shaving, waxing, and plucking? If you’re looking for a long-term solution to unwanted hair, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment might be the perfect option for you. At our cilnetix, we offer advanced IPL hair reduction treatments designed to leave your skin smooth and hair-free with minimal discomfort and long-lasting results.
What is IPL Hair Reduction?
IPL hair reduction is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses broad-spectrum light to target and destroy hair follicles. Unlike traditional laser hair removal, which uses a single wavelength of light, IPL emits multiple wavelengths. This allows it to treat a larger area of skin in each session, making it an efficient choice for hair removal.
How does IPL treatments work?
The light energy from the IPL device is absorbed by the pigment in the hair (melanin), which heats up and ultimately damages the hair follicle. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth, giving you smoother skin after just a few sessions.
How long do results of IPL last?
Most clients require a series of 4 – 6 sessions, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. This is because hair grows in cycles, and IPL is most effective on hair in the active growth phase. After completing the initial series of treatments, occasional maintenance sessions may be needed to maintain your results.
It’s important to note that IPL works best on individuals with lighter skin and darker hair, as the contrast allows the light to effectively target the hair follicle. However, advancements in technology have made it possible for people with various skin tones and hair colours to benefit from IPL.
Am I suitable for IPL?
If you are interested in IPL Hair reduction you can book a consultation with one of our skin therapists who will assess you for suitability for treatment. Most people are suitable but certain medications and skin conditions will effect the treatment and our medical staff will be able to advise based on individual cases.
If you’re looking for a long-term solution to unwanted hair, IPL hair reduction might be the right choice. However, the effectiveness of IPL can vary based on your skin and hair type. During your consultation, our experts will evaluate your suitability for the treatment and guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the best possible care and results.
How should I prepare for treatment?
Limit your sun exposure.
In fact if you have had sun exposure within 72 hours of your treatment you cannot receive the treatment! Most of us with ‘Scottish skin’ tend to burn in the sun. But all of our skin, even those lucky ones who tan well, can become much more sensitive to heat (from sun exposure) without us even knowing it! If you were out in the sun 72 hours before your IPL treatment you would run the risk of scarring, burning or seriously damaging your skin. It is because of this we would not be able to perform your IPL treatment if you had sun exposure in the last 72 hours.
Limit your use of self-tanners
As IPL targets dark pigment we also ask that you limit your use of self-tanners prior to your IPL treatments. Fake-tan can cause the IPL to target the ‘fake’ pigment on your skin rather than the hair follicle. Not only will this make the treatment less effective but it could potentially damage your skin. If you use fake-tan prior to your treatment we will not be able to perform the IPL treatment.
Refrain from plucking, waxing or bleaching the area.
Before your IPL hair reduction treatment we ask that you refrain from plucking or waxing the area to be treated for at least 2 – 4 weeks. We also ask that you do not bleach the hair. Plucking, waxing and bleaching reduces the effectiveness of the treatment. If you do pluck, wax or bleach the IPL treatment will not be as effective and you will require additional treatments.
Shave the treatment area.
If you do want to get rid of unwanted hair in between treatments, shaving is absolutely fine. In fact we ask that you shave the area to be treated a day or two prior to your treatment. When IPL hair reduction is performed the hair follicles should be visible however if longer hair is visible it could be slightly more painful. At Clinetix our aestheticians are expertly trained so if they find that the hair is too long they will shave the area.
What should I expect from the treatment?
1. Consultation. Before starting IPL treatment, you’ll have a consultation with one of our experienced professionals. During this session, we’ll assess your skin and hair type to determine if IPL is the right treatment for you and create a personalized treatment plan.
2. Preparation: We recommend that you shave the treatments area a day or two prior to the treatment. This reduces any discomfort that can be felt if the hair shafts are too long.
3. Treatment: The IPL device is passed over the treatment area, emitting pulses of light. You might feel a slight warming sensation or a mild snap, similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin. Most people find this sensation tolerable.
4. Post-Treatment: After the session, you might experience mild redness or swelling, similar to a sunburn. This typically subsides within a few hours. It’s important to protect your skin from the sun and follow any aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
What kind of aftercare does IPL require?
After your IPL treatment there is no downtime and you can continue your normal activities after treatment. However as your skin is likely to be sensitive we recommend using an SPF on sun exposed areas. Excessive skin exposure after treatment risks damaging your skin so we advise that you avoid sunbathing or tanning beds.
Benefits of IPL Hair Reduction
Long-Lasting Results: IPL treatment targets the hair follicle at the root, leading to long-lasting hair reduction. With multiple sessions, you can achieve significantly reduced hair growth and smoother skin.
Safe and Effective: IPL is a safe treatment option for most skin types, and advancements in technology have made it more effective and comfortable than ever.
Versatility: IPL can be used on various areas of the body, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and back. Whether you’re looking to remove hair from a large or small area, IPL can be tailored to your needs.
Minimal Downtime: Unlike more invasive treatments, IPL requires little to no downtime. You can return to your daily activities almost immediately after your session.
Cost-Effective: Over time, IPL can be more cost-effective than other hair removal methods like waxing or shaving. With long-lasting results, you’ll spend less time and money on temporary hair removal solutions.
Are IPL Devices Safe?
IPL devices, like all other devices can arise complications, but when in the hands of a highly trained practitioner these chances are less likely. When having IPL treatment for any concerns a full consultation and patch test should always be carried out to ensure patient safety.
What is the difference between in-clinic and at home IPL treatment?
As expected at home devices do not hold the same power as in clinic devices. The results can often take longer or not at all, whereas although there are never guarantees with any devices, in clinic IPL has a much higher success rate.
Does IPL work?
IPL has a high success rate and is one of the most sought after treatments for the likes of Redness, Broken Veins, Pigmentation and Hair Removal. Each result can vary from patient to patient and there are many factors that should be taken into consideration which is why an in depth consultation prior to treatments is necessary.
What areas of the body can I have IPL?
IPL can be performed on most areas of the body depending on concern. Most popular in our clinic is the face for the likes of redness, broken veins or pigmentation. However for hair removal, if the criteria is met this can be performed anywhere on the body.
Say goodbye to the hassles of shaving, waxing, and plucking with IPL hair reduction. This innovative treatment offers a safe, effective, and convenient way to achieve smooth, hair-free skin that lasts. Contact our clinic today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards freeing yourself from unwanted hair.
Experience the confidence that comes with smooth, flawless skin – all thanks to IPL hair reduction!
If you have any other questions that we have not covered please contact us on info@clinetix.co.uk.
To book a chat and a patch test call one of our clinics on 01698 854 221 (Bothwell) or 01467 629 892 for Laser Hair Reduction at Clinetix Grampian .