Using IPL Devices at Home - How Effective Are They Really

Hair in unwanted places can be an annoying pain. Usually, you’ll need to see a doctor to get laser removal treatments using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. It’s a form of laser therapy that involves using pulses of light to treat areas with unwanted hair. The light causes the hair’s roots to go into a “resting” phase, which causes it to fall off.

Like any other piece of technology, even IPL devices have evolved to a point where people can buy their own and simply use them at home in their own time. Soon enough, using an at-home IPL device was embraced because of its efficiency. However, many people still have reservations about it.

In this article, we’ll shed some light on the subject of using IPL devices at home. Read on below to learn more.

The Difference Between Intense Pulsed Light and Salon Treatment

Since IPL is still a new term for some people, they’d instead go to the salon to get a hair removal treatment. The main difference is that IPL devices are automated, and the settings can be changed depending on a person’s skin type and the hair that’s being removed.

The flash of light goes through a filter to produce a specific wavelength that’s absorbed by melanin, which is the amino acids that give us our skin color. The light builds up to heat and destroys the cells around the hair that’s being targeted. This makes the follicle struggle with growing new hair in its place.

FAQs Regarding at Home IPL Devices

Home IPL devices are a foreign concept for some people, so here are some FAQs:

“Are IPL home devices as effective as salon removal?”

Since there are always innovations in technology, it’s a possibility. However, the concern lies in misusing the home IPL device, which can cause burns. There’s no problem as long as the device is used properly, but increasing its capabilities can potentially endanger the user’s life, especially if they don’t understand the device’s features.

“Can people with any skin tone use home IPL devices?”

Yes, because home IPL devices go through checks to determine if they are safe to be used. It’s simply a matter of following the instructions and not overusing them to get faster results.

“How Long Does It Take for IPL to Take Effect?”

How long until the effects of an IPL kick in depends entirely on the body part that it’s applied to. The bikini area, legs, and underarms can take approximately 6 to 8 months to remove most of the hair, coupled with maintenance treatments every 9 to 24 months. For home IPL devices, the numbers are doubled along with the maintenance sessions.

“Do I need to prepare my skin before using an IPL device at home? How do I do so?”

Yes, a certain amount of preparations must be made first before using an IPL device at home.

It’s recommended to trim the hair down to skin level. If you can shave beforehand, it must be done the day before. In some cases, you will be required to apply moisturizers with 30+ SPF as an extra precaution for your skin against sun exposure, and drinking water before and after your treatment is also recommended 

Conclusion

Professional hair removal services can be costly, which is why home IPL devices are here to save the day. Home IPL devices are incredibly beneficial, but you have to follow the instructions regarding how to use the device. If you follow said instructions, then you’ll be seeing results faster than expected.