Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (2024)

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work?

TL:DR Summary

• IPL Hair Removal Explained: Uses intense light pulses to damage hair follicles, reducing hair growth.
• Effective on Dark Hair: Targets dark pigment in hair, ideal for darker hair types.
• Not Completely Permanent: Offers significant hair reduction, not total permanence; maintenance treatments may be needed.
• SHR Technology: Super Hair Removal (SHR) combines IPL and laser benefits, suitable for all skin types.
• Laser Hair Removal: Kills hair follicles in active growth cycles, requires multiple treatments.
• Maintenance Sessions: Occasional follow-up sessions ensure long-lasting results, tailored to individual needs.

Introduction: Does IPL Hair Removal Get Rid of Hair Permanently?

In my years of experience as an Aesthetic Director, I’ve had the opportunity to delve deeply into various hair removal techniques, and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is one that frequently piques the interest of clients and professionals alike. The question often arises: “Does IPL hair removal really work for permanent hair reduction?”

Drawing from my interactions with numerous clients and continuous engagement with the latest industry research, I can affirm that IPL can be an effective method for many, but its efficacy varies depending on individual factors like hair color, skin type, and the area being treated.

IPL works by emitting a spectrum of light that targets the pigment in the hair, which then absorbs the light and converts it to heat, damaging the hair follicle. This process can lead to a significant reduction in hair growth over time.

However, it’s important to understand that ‘permanent’ hair removal doesn’t necessarily mean the complete absence of hair forever but rather a substantial and long-term reduction in hair growth. In the following article, I will delve into the nuances of IPL hair removal, exploring its effectiveness, suitability for different skin types, and what one can realistically expect from the treatment.

Can IPL, SHR or Laser Hair Removal Permanently Remove Hair?

IPL Hair Removal Overview

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a cosmetic skin treatment popular in Singapore and around the world. It’s used for reducing signs of aging, removing unwanted hair, lightening dark patches of skin, improving the appearance of scars, and treating spider veins. IPL works similarly to laser therapy, but it uses multiple wavelengths of light energy instead of just one, allowing for a faster treatment of larger areas.

IPL vs. Laser Hair Removal

IPL hair removal and laser hair removal are two common options for those seeking to eliminate unwanted hair. While they share similarities, their differences in light energy delivery make them suited for different situations. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each can help you make an informed decision about which treatment is best for you.

SHR Hair Removal

Super Hair Removal (SHR) is another hair removal option that combines the advantages of both IPL and laser treatments. It provides effective and painless hair reduction, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more comfortable and efficient treatment. Comparing IPL, laser, and SHR hair removal can help you determine the most suitable method for your specific needs.

.

What is IPL hair removal?

IPL Hair Removal vs. Laser Hair Removal: What’s the Difference?

IPL hair removal is a technology used to perform aesthetic treatments, primarily for reducing hair growth. It works by emitting a spectrum of light onto the skin; the light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, which then turns to heat and damages the hair follicle, inhibiting future hair growth. It’s important to note that IPL is different from laser hair removal, as it uses a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths, whereas lasers use a single, focused wavelength.

IPL Hair Removal: Effectiveness on Different Hair Colors

IPL hair removal is generally considered effective, but it’s crucial to understand that results can vary based on individual factors like hair color and skin type. IPL treatments are typically less effective on very light, red, or grey hair and may not be suitable for all skin types, especially darker tones, due to the risk of skin damage.

Is IPL hair removal permanent?

Drawing from my interactions with clients and continuous research in the field, I can say that while IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, it’s important to understand that it may not result in permanent hair removal for everyone. The effectiveness of IPL largely depends on individual factors like hair color, skin type, and the hair’s growth cycle. Typically, clients experience a substantial reduction in hair growth, and the hair that does regrow tends to be finer and lighter. However, maintenance sessions might be necessary to keep the area hair-free over the long term.

IPL hair removal is more ideal for dark hair types

IPL hair removal is an increasingly popular choice for those looking to get rid of unwanted body and facial hair. It’s especially ideal for those with dark hair, as it can target the thickest, darkest strands more effectively than other treatments.

IPL works by emitting a light that targets the dark pigment in the hairs

This type of laser treatment works by emitting a light that targets the dark pigment in the hairs, causing them to absorb heat energy and weaken. This causes them to become thinner and eventually stop growing altogether. In addition, IPL hair removal is relatively quick compared to other treatments such as waxing or tweezing, requiring only a few sessions to achieve permanent results.

Not only is IPL hair removal effective on darker hairs, but it’s also painless compared to other methods of removing unwanted body hair like waxing or threading. Plus, recovery time after the session is minimal.

What is SHR hair removal?

SHR’s Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT) In-Motion laser hair removal technology is a breakthrough in customer comfort and effectiveness of treatments. SHR or Super Hair Removal technology heats the skin gently through the melanin and the stem cells with low energy but high frequency. SHR uses only 50% of the energy for permanent hair removal. The remaining 50% is absorbed into the stem cells responsible for hair production.

The AFT In-Motion technology, as part of the SHR method, operates by delivering light energy at a wavelength range of 700-950 nm for optimal absorption by the melanin in hair follicles, which is essential for effective hair removal​.

SHR technology is newer and more effective than IPL hair removal

SHR technology is newer and more effective than IPL hair removal. SHR causes minimal pain due to the cool touch laser hair removal methodology as compared to IPL. SHR can cover all parts of the body such as hair removal for face, arms, legs, underarms, etc. SHR causes less discomfort as compared to IPL hair removal by using a broad spectrum of laser wavelengths. SHR is also suitable for all hair type and skin tones as compared to IPL, making it an effective means for permanent hair reduction.

Advantages of SHR Hair Removal over IPL Hair Removal

The table below summarises the advantages of SHR hair removal over IPL hair removal:

Please note that the number of sessions needed for SHR depends on various factors such as the area treated, the hair density, the hair growth cycle, and the individual response.

See Also

Do’s and Don’t’s before, during and after IPL Hair Removal – Lumina Aesthetics

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal devices work by killing the hair follicle. But hair grows in cycles, and the lasers only damage follicles during an active cycle of hair growth. So it takes multiple treatments, about a month apart, to completely stop hair from regrowing.

You might need a maintenance treatment every year or so to keep stray hairs from cropping up

For some people, laser hair removal treatment is not entirely permanent. You might need a maintenance treatment every year or so to keep stray hairs from cropping up. After your laser session, the growth of new hair will be less noticeable. However, even though laser treatments damage hair follicles, they’re not destroyed completely.Over time, the treated follicles may recover from the initial damage and grow hair again. Many women suffer from the frustrating and embarrassing problem ofingrown hair, and this can be treated with laser hair removal.

Please see the table for the effectiveness of laser hair removal on different body parts.

Whether it’s IPL, SHR or laser hair removal, there is a caveat

Laser hair removal works by heating the hair follicles to stop new hairs from growing. This puts the hair follicles in a state of dormancy for a long period of time — much longer than with shaving and waxing. When the hairs do grow back, they’ll be lighter, finer, and fewer in number.

Although the procedure or treatment plan is often touted as a form of “permanent” hair removal, laser treatment onlyreducesthe number of unwanted hairs in a given area. It doesn’t get rid of unwanted hairs completely.

Follow-up treatments are necessary to get the most out of laser hair removal

Follow-up treatments are necessary to get the most out of laser hair removal. The exact number of maintenance laser treatments varies by individual. Most people need between four and six laser therapy sessions.

Additionally, for the best results, you’ll likely need occasional maintenance sessions. These help ensure that the hair follicles don’t regenerate. Depending on your individual needs, you may need a maintenance session once or twice a year after your full initial round of laser treatment.

Conclusion

From what I’ve observed, the success of IPL largely depends on individual factors like hair color, skin type, and the treatment’s adherence to the right protocols. While it may not result in complete permanent hair removal for everyone, many individuals experience a significant reduction in hair growth that can be long-lasting.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results. Additionally, I always emphasize the importance of consulting with a qualified professional who can provide personalized advice based on one’s unique skin and hair characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Serene Chiam, Aesthetic Director

Serene Chiam, the Aesthetic Director at Wellaholic, an acclaimed Aesthetic Chain in Singapore, brings over a decade of expertise in the aesthetics industry. With a Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) and CIDESCO certifications, she expertly combines scientific knowledge with practical skills. Serene is known for her personalized approach to beauty, ensuring each Wellaholic client’s journey is unique and transformative. Her significant contributions have been pivotal in establishing Wellaholic’s reputation for excellence in aesthetic wellness.

SHR Permanent Hair Removal with Unlimited Shots

• ⭐ Diode Laser Technology. Developed byAlma Lasers, SHR combines 755nm, 808nm and 1064nm laser wavelengths to target all skin types.
• ⭐ Unbeatable in Value and Quality. Wellaholic’s SHR Unlimited Plans offer a hair removal solution that is unbeatable in both value and quality.
• ⭐ One Price for All Body Parts. Pay just one low price for a complete hair removal experience for all body parts, including unlimited SHR shots.
• ⭐ Permanent Fuss-Free Solution. Say goodbye to the hassle of expensive and ineffective hair removal methods and trust WellaSmooth 3X to deliver a permanent and fuss-free solution for all your hair removal needs.
• ⭐ Award-Winning. Wellaholic’s treatments have been recognized by top beauty publications such as Daily Vanity, Beauty Insider, and Tropika Club Magazine.
• ⭐ Over 2000 Verified Customer Reviews. Wellaholic has over 30 industry awards and over 2000 positive reviews from customers, and >50% are repeat customers.

Wellaholic offers all-inclusive hair removal plans. With a one-time payment, you gain unlimited access to full body hair removal using SHR diode laser shots. This strategy guarantees exceptional results and unparalleled cost-effectiveness.