Comparing IPL and Laser hair removal treatments

Removing unwanted hair permanently is something that both IPL and laser hair removal treatments can offer. But how does this work and what are the differences between the two options?

How do IPL and laser hair removal treatments work?

IPL and laser hair removal treatments both work using the same method to target and destroy unwanted hair. Both of these treatment options involve using light waves that enter the skin and are absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle, causing this to heat up and become damaged, allowing the body to remove it. Over several repeated treatments, the entire growth cycle of the hair follicle can be disrupted to the point of permanent hair removal.

What are the differences between IPL and Laser hair removal treatments?

When it comes to removing unwanted hair both laser hair removal and IPL hair removal offer a very similar service. But what are the differences between these two treatment types? And which option would be the best choice for you and your skin? Well, there are several differences including:

• Using different types of light wave – for laser hair removal treatment, a single wavelength or colour of light is used, and this is directed in a close, single beam, with each light particle focused in a beam, like a laser pointer. For IPL hair removal however, a wide range of light wavelengths combine to produce a single white flash. This light is closer to natural light and can appear with an orange/red glow when the device is flashed against the skin, like a camera flash.
• The number of top up treatments required – in terms of the treatment itself, laser hair removal can require fewer top up treatments to maintain permanent results, but this is not always guaranteed.

What are the advantages of IPL hair removal?

IPL hair removal can bring a number of advantages and benefits when compared to laser hair removal options. These advantages include:

• Faster treatment – When opting for IPL hair removal you can be sure of a faster treatment time than laser hair removal. This is because the laser device uses a single beam of highly concentrated light to target very small areas at a time, whereas an IPL device can cover larger areas at once, for a much quicker treatment.
• Less pain – IPL treatments are often reported to be less painful than laser hair removal treatments. This is because the concentrated beam of the laser treatment can cause more pain for your skin when compared with the broader IPL light, which is much more gentle.
• Lower cost – IPL hair removal treatments are often much more affordable than laser hair removal. This is because laser light can be expensive to generate, while IPL devices are less expensive to operate.
• Safety -IPL hair removal treatments are completely safe and devices can even be operated at home, although for the best possible results you should opt for professional treatment, delivered by qualified aesthetic practitioners, like us here at The Skin and Wellbeing Clinic.

For more information or advice about IPL hair removal in Preston, get in touch with leading aesthetic practitioners here at The Skin and Wellbeing Clinic.