Intense photo light therapy to remove hair- another fad?

Almost every single week there is an announcement that there is new a permanent method to remove hair. First, it was the razor, than it was wax;, followed by depilatory ointments, then laser and now we have IPL or intense pulse light therapy. Most spas, salons and even some physicians have gone on the bandwagon to advertise IPL as the best method to remove hair.

Just what is IPL?

IPL is just like a laser in that there is a beam of light, but the wavelength at which is light is emitted is broad. And what does all this mean? Well the IPL will have maximal effect and decrease the amount of injury to normal skin. The other benefit is that patients do not feel pain (well that is what the doctors say- see later).

So how does IPL work?

Well, IPL removes all the hair that you do not want in your body. In fact, it can remove hair from any part of your body. The light energy is focused on the hair and absorbed by the hair follicles. This destroys the hair follicle so that it will no longer grow. However, since hair does grow in cycles, new hair will be visible but these can be treated with multiple treatments later on. So far, all sounds good.

How is the procedure done?

All IPL treatments are done at a spa or a salon. When you get there, you will be made comfortable and the area of the body with hair will be exposed. The technician will apply a thin clear gel to cool the top of the skin layer. The IPL device is then switched on. The wavelength for the IPL is selected by a physician and is individualized based on skin texture and hair color.

Can IPL used everywhere on the body?

Sure, physicians claim it can be used on the upper lips, ears, nose, under arms, bikini, groin line and even around the anus (I sure would like to use the IPL on a physician’s arse and ask him how it feels!). The cosmetic physicians claim that hair can be removed without any discomfort

Does IPL work in men?

Sure, IPL always works when people pay money. However, hair removal in men is slightly difficult because the hair is more thick and coarse.