Does IPL Hair Removal Hurt? Myths vs. Reality

Everyone is talking about IPL hair removal these days. It sounds interesting, but do you know how IPL hair removal works? And maybe you are wondering, “Is IPL hair removal right for me?” In this blog we will answer all of your questions related to IPL hair removal at home!

To save you the time and effort of looking for all the answers, we’ve listed everything you need to know about IPL in this blog. As a reference, we used the premium IPL device from Silk’n: the Silk’n 7.

Myth #1: IPL laser hair removal hurts

IPL (IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light) uses flashes of light to put the hair follicles into sleep. The flashes of light focus on the hair root, causing the hairs to fall out and the hair follicle to become dormant.

The Silk’n 7 is a light based hair removal device which combines Galvanic Energy and Optical Energy (eHPL™patented technology). These energies are emitted by the device simultaneously, but each has a distinct function. The Galvanic Energy opens the pores, ensuring that the Optical Energy has easy access to the hair follicles. The Optical Energy is absorbed selectively in the hair shaft and reduces hairs permanently in the fastest possible way.

After each treatment, hair growth is reduced. Because the skin pores are open after treatment, you can apply a body lotion for perfect skin. The result is silky smooth skin with a radiant glow. The skin pores close by themselves.

Myth #2: At-home IPL device isn’t as effective as and in-clinic laser hair removal

Another myth is that IPL hair removal devices for home use aren’t as effective as a weekly visit to a laser hair removal clinic. Even though the technologies are slightly different, they yield similar long-lasting results. The reason many believe that laser hair removal is more effective is that it requires more powerful technology that can only be managed by a trained professional. IPL technology isn’t quite the same as in-clinic laser hair removal because it is designed for anyone to use, anywhere, while still providing long-lasting hair removal.

Myth #3: You absolutely cannot go outside in-between your IPL laser hair removal sessions

Don’t worry, during your IPL journey, you don’t have to be coped up in your home the whole time. Although, make sure to avoid direct sunlight contact on the treated area as the skin will likely be extra sensitive to UV rays. When you go outside it’s important to cover the treated area with a physical sunblock like clothing, hats, etc. and that you’re wearing at least SPF30 sunscreen.

Myth #4: IPL devices cannot be used on your face

Not true, you can absolutely use an IPL device on your face. It’s especially perfect for targeting stubborn and thick hairs on the chin and above the upper lip. However, you should avoid using the device just around your eyes. We recommend for sensitive skin to start off on a small area of the face to see how your skin reacts before treating your full face.

Tip: avoid using skincare products that may contain drying ingredients (like acne treatments) when using your IPL device on your face. Stick to a simple routine and keep your skin moisturized with a hydrating facial cleanser and moisturizer.

Myth #5: IPL hair removal devices are expensive

The length of an IPL treatment session varies depending on the area of the body that is treated.

Do you want to remove hair quickly? Silk’n 7 can produce individual light pulses at automatic intervals. This Gliding method is unique, ultra-fast, and you can simply glide the device over your skin.

To give you reference, most of our users take approximately 20 minutes to treat their legs.

Myth #6: Do not shave in between treatments

It is perfectly safe to shave while undergoing laser hair removal treatments. It is common to see hair regrowth, especially in the early stages of treatment. However, anything that involves pulling hair (waxing, plucking, etc.) can irritate the skin and affect the hair removal process. We highly recommend shaving right before a session for the best results.

Conclusion

We hope we’ve addressed some common myths with our blog. If you have any further questions about using at-home IPL devices or want to learn more, please check our at-home hair removal devices or feel free to contact us via Instagram DM. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have!

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