Whether you’ve tried many methods or you’re a newbie to the world of permanent hair removal, it can be a confusing process deciding on which route is right for you.
Technologies like laser hair removal and IPL hair removal are both effective and well-used ways to get long-term results, but do you know the difference?
Essentially, laser hair removal uses a single beam of concentrated light wavelength to absorb the melanin within the hair follicle. Over time and multiple treatments, the laser weakens the hair follicle, resulting in a long-term hair reduction.
IPL hair removal also uses light wavelengths to zero in on melanin to destroy hair follicles, but it uses more than one beam of light. IPL emits multiple light wavelengths which diffuses the energy making it less targeted but as effective in the shorter term.
Skincare expert, Dr. Mohta, reveals that “while both technologies have their advantages, laser hair removal is faster, more precise and can cater to darker skin tones while delivering permanent hair reduction. IPL and laser technology are also both available for safe, self-administered home use on the face, arms, legs, bikini line, chest and hands.”
Let’s take a look at some of the best products for permanent at home laser hair removal...
CurrentBody Skin Laser Hair Removal Device
Boasting the title of ‘the only at-home laser removal treatment for permanent, full body results outside a clinic’, you can’t really go past this piece of tech for brilliant outcomes and ease-of-use. Bringing a laser device home means avoiding expensive trips to the laser clinic, providing the opportunity to perform treatments when and where in only 15 minutes. The device comes with six settings with different energy levels, safety sensors that tackle heat and skin tone compatibility and an ergonomic design that ensures comfort.
SmoothSkin Pure Mini Lite IPL Hair Removal Device
The most lightweight and compact SmoothSkin hair removal device, the Pure Mini Lite offers easy and effective permanent hair reduction in 4 weeks. Just like the Pure Fit, a full body session takes only 10 minutes to complete—with 120 flashes per minute, 1 comfort setting and 2 modes for stamping and gliding. It's an easy device that achieves real results, perfect for anyone new to permanent hair removal. It includes innovative safety features to protect your skin and eyes at all times, eliminating the need for protective eyewear. The unique UV Filter and skin contact sensors are intelligent enough to prevent discomfort.
Do IPL and laser treatments hurt?
No. IPL and laser hair removal is typically pain free because they use low-intensity light, with at-home devices now equipped with advanced cooling air systems and UV sensors to minimise any discomfort.
While both laser and IPL may lead to temporary side effects like minor redness and minimal swelling, IPL and laser hair removal are suitable for sensitive skin types.
Who can use IPL and laser devices?
As grey and white hair does not contain enough melanin, both treatments do not work on these hair colours. Additionally, red hair contains a different type of melanin, which is also not responsive to IPL or laser treatments.
Very dark skin tones with high melanin content cannot use these devices either as it may cause skin damage. Find out if your skin tone and hair colour is compatible with the technology here.
How to prepare for both treatments:
Getting ready for both laser and IPL treatments are the same, experts advise to take the following steps…
- 6 weeks before, avoid plucking, waxing or bleaching to preserve the hair root and pigment.
- 4 to 6 weeks before, refrain from using sunbeds and apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to prevent sunburn.
- 1 week before, remove any fake tan, while consistently exfoliating and moisturising throughout the week. 24 hours before, shave the treatment area.
- Right before your session, make sure your skin is clean, dry and free from product.
