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

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

November 21, 2023

Beauty Services, Hair Removal

9

Table of Contents

    • 0.1 TL:DR Summary
    • 0.2 Introduction: Does IPL Hair Removal Get Rid of Hair Permanently?
    • 0.3 Can IPL, SHR or Laser Hair Removal Permanently Remove Hair?
      • 0.3.1 IPL Hair Removal Overview
      • 0.3.2 IPL vs. Laser Hair Removal
      • 0.3.3 SHR Hair Removal
    • 0.4 What is IPL hair removal?
      • 0.4.1 IPL Hair Removal vs. Laser Hair Removal: What’s the Difference?
      • 0.4.2 IPL Hair Removal: Effectiveness on Different Hair Colors
    • 0.5 Is IPL hair removal permanent?
    • 0.6 IPL hair removal is more ideal for dark hair types
      • 0.6.1 IPL works by emitting a light that targets the dark pigment in the hairs
    • 0.7 What is SHR hair removal?
      • 0.7.1 SHR technology is newer and more effective than IPL hair removal
    • 0.8 Advantages of SHR Hair Removal over IPL Hair Removal
    • 0.9 What is laser hair removal?
      • 0.9.1 You might need a maintenance treatment every year or so to keep stray hairs from cropping up
    • 0.10 Whether it’s IPL, SHR or laser hair removal, there is a caveat
      • 0.10.1 Follow-up treatments are necessary to get the most out of laser hair removal
    • 0.11 Conclusion
    • 0.12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
      • 0.12.1 Serene Chiam, Aesthetic Director
    • 0.13 Book Now Pay Later
    • 0.14 SHR Permanent Hair Removal with Unlimited Shots
      • 0.14.1 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.
  • 1 IPL Hair Removal in Singapore: Unveiling the Effectiveness of Permanent Hair-Free Solution

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.
Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (1)

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.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (2)

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.

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Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (3)

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.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (4)

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.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (5)

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.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (6)

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:

AspectSHRIPL
ComfortSHR is more comfortable for the clientIPL can be uncomfortable due to intense bursts of light energy
Risk of BurningSHR carries no risk of burning the skinThere is a risk of burning the skin with IPL
Success RateSHR has a higher success rate in terms of permanently removing hairIPL has a lower success rate
Treatment TimeSHR treatment time is faster than IPLIPL treatment time is longer
SuitabilitySHR is suitable for all skin types and tonesIPL may not be effective on certain skin types
EfficiencySHR can eliminate both fine and coarse hairIPL may require sessions once every two weeks

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.

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.

Body PartEffectiveness of Laser Hair Removal
FaceVery effective
UnderarmsVery effective
ArmsEffective
LegsVery effective
Bikini areaVery effective
BackEffective
ChestEffective
StomachEffective
ButtocksEffective
Feet and toesNot very effective
Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (8)

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.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (9)

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)

What is IPL hair removal, and how does it work?

A: IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, hair removal is a non-invasive method that uses light energy to target hair follicles. The light energy is absorbed by the hair pigment, which then heats up and damages the follicle, inhibiting future hair growth.

Is IPL hair removal really effective for achieving permanent hair reduction?

A: IPL hair removal can lead to long-lasting hair reduction, but it might not result in complete permanent hair removal for everyone. Results can vary based on individual factors such as hair color, skin tone, and hormonal influences.

How many sessions of IPL hair removal are typically needed to see noticeable results?

A: Multiple sessions are usually required to achieve noticeable and lasting results with IPL hair removal. The exact number of sessions depends on factors like the treatment area, hair thickness, and the individual’s response to the treatment.

Can IPL hair removal be used for facial hair removal?

A: Yes, IPL hair removal can be used for facial hair removal. It’s effective for areas like the upper lip, chin, and cheeks. However, caution is needed around the eyes and eyebrows due to the sensitivity of the skin.

Is IPL hair removal a safe procedure?

A: When performed by trained professionals, IPL hair removal is generally considered safe. However, there might be some side effects like temporary redness or mild discomfort during the treatment.

Can you achieve permanent hair removal at home using IPL devices?

A: Yes, there are IPL devices available for home use. However, professional treatments at established clinics like Wellaholic tend to offer more powerful and effective results due to the expertise and technology they provide.

Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (10)

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.

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Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (11)

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.
Permanently Hair-Free: Does IPL Hair Removal Really Work? (12)

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.

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

FAQs

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

While maintenance treatments may be needed every 1-2 years, IPL provides a more permanent reduction compared to shaving or waxing. Laser hair removal is an effective method for getting smooth, hair-free skin that lasts for years.

Does IPL really remove hair permanently? ›

Neither treatment is permanent permanent, but the results for both IPL and laser hair removal can last for months, and both devices are FDA-approved for reducing the amount of hair regrowth over time. The IPL treatment might save you some discomfort compared to laser, though.

Does IPL actually stop hair growth? ›

You can undergo IPL hair removal in the comfort of your own home, applying these gentle flashes of light around your desired body areas after shaving. What is IPL treatment and how does it work over time? With repeated use IPL delays the production of new hair, preventing regrowth over time.

Is it possible to remove 100% of hairs with IPL? ›

“I will NEVER EVER have any hair after IPL hair removal”

We cannot promise 100% permanent hair removal. We can also only treat active hairs (in the 'anagen' cycle).

Does the IPL hair removal system work? ›

IPL treatments, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology, show that people get 83.3% less hair growth after one month and 78.1% less after three months. Results can last for years or even permanently. This makes IPL an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy long-lasting smoothness.

How long does IPL take to permanently remove hair? ›

After completing a session of 12 weeks, the hair growth will reduce completely, providing you with silky, smooth skin for a longer time. However, you may have to continue touch-ups as needed. It is most effective on darker coloured body hair, as the melanin absorbs the light.

Can hair grow back thicker after IPL? ›

This shedding process can take 10-14 days post treatment. And during this time, it may appear as though the hair is growing back thicker and darker. However, this is simply the hair follicle shedding the treated hair.

What happens if you use IPL too often? ›

IPL is most effective while your hair is in the growth phase –if you treat your skin multiple times a week, your hair can become dormant and IPL treatment won't work as well. Additionally, while IPL is a gentle treatment, too much of it can be a bad thing. If you use IPL too frequently, you can irritate your skin.

Why did my hair grow back after IPL? ›

Over time, the treated follicles may recover from the initial damage and grow hair again. It's a tall order to eliminate every hair follicle in a given area. Therefore, you may notice a tiny amount of hair regrowth. Your hair goes through several phases of a growth cycle.

Does IPL work if you don't shave? ›

If you forget to shave, the effectiveness of your treatment may diminish. The laser, instead of focusing on the follicles, might target surface hair. This can lead to heightened discomfort, potential stinging, and a risk of burns. Surface impurities like dirt and oil can also reduce efficacy.

What are the downsides of IPL? ›

The main downsides of IPL treatment are the cost and number of sessions needed to get results. Mild pain and redness also may occur during or after treatments. How long does IPL treatment last? Skin improvements often last 6 months to 1 year.

What happens if you stop using IPL? ›

Most areas that clients have treated are influenced by hormones that drive growth. Therefore, it is inevitable that the hair will come back because hormones change. In conclusion, stopping treatments prematurely will decrease hair growth but won't get you maximum results.

Why isn't IPL permanent? ›

One of the main reasons why you need to do repeat treatments with IPL (like laser), is because your hairs are not all in the same phase of the cycle at the same time. So to catch all of them, and to get rid of them permanently, you almost have to chase the cycles.

Are home IPL devices worth it? ›

If you purchase one of these devices which do malfunction or have not been calibrated in quite some time, you may risk being stuck with a poor investment which cannot be used or even worse, a dangerous device which is capable of causing burns, hyper pigmentation and scarring.

Is IPL better than shaving? ›

Smoother skin: Shaving can be quite traumatic for the skin and many people suffer from rashes or bumps. IPL means that the skin doesn't need to undergo such harsh treatment, which is beneficial for its condition and appearance.

Why is my IPL hair removal not working? ›

You Have a Hormonal Imbalance Affecting IPL Treatment

Another common reason why IPL hair removal doesn't work boils down to hormones. While IPL can be a great fit for PCOS hair removal, in other cases hormonal conditions can lead to ineffective hair removal. This may be the case if IPL's not working on facial hair.

What happens when you stop using IPL hair removal? ›

Long-term Effects of Stopping IPL Hair Removal

Over the course of several months or years, discontinuing IPL treatments may lead to changes in your hair growth patterns. While IPL considerably reduces hair growth, sporadic regrowth is not uncommon.

How many sessions of IPL for permanent hair removal? ›

At any given time, only up to 25% of our hair is in active growth phase. Thus, repeated IPL sessions (for 6 sessions and above) every 3-6 weeks are necessary to permanently reduce hair growth in any given area. Targeted hair will fall out in about 2 weeks after an IPL session.

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