When used as hair removal methods, both lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) use light to heat the hair follicles and prevent hair regeneration. Although the application method is similar, the technology used is quite different, with the main difference being the light source.
To help you determine which hair removal method is right for you, we will explain both technologies.
Laser hair removal
THE laser treatment affects hair growth in the active growth phase (regeneration stage). The laser beam consists of controlled pulses of energy that are absorbed by melanin, the pigment of the hair, reaching the active hair follicles located under the skin. Essentially, the energy heats the hair follicle – all the way down to the root – safely destroying it without damaging the surrounding tissue or skin.
Most people will need between six and eight sessions, after which the hair growth will be visibly reduced or permanently removed and the skin will look smooth and even.
IPL hair removal
IPL technology - also known as intense pulsed light technology - is not really laser treatment. Unlike laser hair removal, it uses a wide range of light with multiple wavelengths. This means that it wastes energy unnecessarily around the hair area and the skin. Thus, IPL uses multi-spectrum lights while the laser uses a single spectrum light, which means that IPL energy is scattered and much weaker. The laser has a dense and targeted light and all the energy is focused where it is needed.
Light is measured as a wavelength (nm), for example, a wavelength of 755nm targets melanin better, so it is used for hair removal. IPL emits a wavelength of 532nm (average of multiple wavelengths). Red blood cells have the highest absorption of this light, so IPL can cause burns to the skin.
Unlike laser treatments that emit a specific wavelength, IPL works by emitting scattered light wavelengths. Various clipping filters are commonly used to selectively filter unnecessary wavelengths to target specific structures and pigments. This can be melanin in the hair or skin in the form of pigmented lesions or hemoglobin in the blood vessels that appear as broken capillaries. In more severe cases, this can be rosacea. This makes IPL a gentle and effective treatment for those suffering from rosacea and facial flushing, and less effective for hair removal.
When used specifically for hair removal, IPL usually requires many treatments for complete hair removal in an area.
Which is better for hair removal, IPL or laser?
IPL technology requires more treatments and can cause less effective hair reduction. The new laser technologies are more advanced and efficient than the corresponding IPLs with less hassle (as they have built-in cooling systems and pouch heating technologies). In addition, this means that they can treat a wider range of skin and hair types than an IPL.
If you want to deal with unwanted hair growth, then the real laser is the best choice. It is also more effective when applied by a specialized laser nurse. Experts agree that it is important to discuss your specific concerns with your dermatologist and consider your skin type so that they can advise you on the best course of action.
What is the best laser for hair removal?
We use the most advanced lasers to have optimal results. The Soprano Ice and Motus Ax are two of the top, most reliable lasers in the field of laser hair removal. The technologies combine alexandrite laser which is ideal for hair removal with gradual heating heads of the pockets, which makes them completely painless and effective.
What does it entail? laser hair removal?
Modern lasers generally require six to eight sessions. The patient should come every four to eight weeks (depending on the area of the body) in which only the hair in the anagen stage if successfully damaged. In between treatments, patients can shave something that encourages the damaged follicle to shed.
Who can and can not receive laser treatments?
The treatments are suitable for most men and women over 18 years of age. The medical history is always discussed before treatment and, therefore, any contraindications that may make treatment ineffective will occur.
There are certain conditions that prevent patients from treating hair growth with light technology. They are often associated with drugs that cause mild (photo) sensitivity.
How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?
Learn more about the laser hair removal or see them special prices.