IPL Hair Removal

What is IPL treatment?

IPL, or intense pulsed light, hair removal is a method of removing unwanted hair through the use of light pulses that destroy hair follicles and inhibit new hair growth. The light pulses cover a large area at one time and travel safely through the skin to target the hair follicles. IPL hair removal is most effective when your hair is growing, so multiple treatments reach the most hair follicles at different stages of growth.

In addition to hair removal, IPL therapy is an effective treatment for minimizing the appearance of spider veins, skin discoloration, and sun damage. IPL is commonly used for wrinkle reduction and reducing age spots and acne scars on the face, neck, chest, and back of your hands — just about anywhere you want to improve skin tone.

Is IPL hair removal safe for every skin tone and hair color?

The IPL treatment works safely on most skin tones and hair types for hair removal on just about every part of your body. Typically, after four to six treatments with the IPL device, the hair follicle is disrupted enough for the hair to permanently stop growing.* The skin around the follicle remains undamaged by the light, and IPL is a virtually pain-free treatment option.

How should I prepare for IPL hair removal treatment?

One of the medical professionals at Dr. Trager’s office goes over everything in detail with you before your first treatment, but you’re generally advised to stop other types of hair removal, including waxing or tweezing, several weeks before your first appointment. Because IPL hair removal is most effective on growing hair, allow it to grow before your visit. Avoid excessive sun exposure, too, so your skin isn’t burned or irritated when you come in.

Are IPL treatments the same as laser hair removal?

IPL hair removal is an alternative to laser hair removal, and the two treatments differ. IPL produces a wide area of light that treats multiple hair follicles at once, whereas a laser produces a single, concentrated wavelength of light that targets a smaller area. The IPL process is virtually painless with few side effects, if any. Laser hair removal can be painful and cause redness and irritation to your skin similar to a sunburn.

Laser hair removal treatments often require the use of a cooling gel to help protect your skin. After a laser treatment, you may need to use ice packs or anti-inflammatory creams to ease discomfort. In rare cases, or if used incorrectly, lasers can cause blistering and swelling to the treated area of skin.

Contact the office today or schedule a consultation online to find out more about the convenience of IPL treatments.