Laser Hair removal
Posted on April 9, 2023April 9, 2023 by Glowyskincare
If you are looking for a long-lasting solution to hair removal, you may have heard of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal. IPL uses intense light pulses to destroy hair follicles and prevent regrowth. While it is an effective method of hair removal, it can also cause ingrown hairs if not used correctly. In this article, we will guide you on how to avoid ingrown hairs while using IPL hair removal.
Table of Contents
What are Ingrown Hairs?
Ingrown hairs are hairs that have curled back or grown sideways into the skin instead of growing out of it. They can cause small, red bumps or pimples and can be painful or itchy. Ingrown hairs can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common in areas where hair is removed by shaving or waxing.
How Does IPL Hair Removal Work?
IPL hair removal works by emitting intense light pulses that are absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. The light energy is converted into heat, which destroys the follicle and prevents hair regrowth. IPL is most effective on dark, coarse hair and may not work on fine, light-colored hair.
How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs with IPL Hair Removal
- Exfoliate before IPL treatment: Exfoliating your skin before IPL treatment can help remove dead skin cells and prevent hair from becoming trapped under the skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or brush to exfoliate the area you will be treating.
- Shave before IPL treatment: Shaving before IPL treatment can help prevent ingrown hairs by ensuring that hair is at the surface of the skin. Avoid waxing or plucking before IPL treatment as this can damage the hair follicle and make IPL less effective.
- Use a lower IPL setting: Using a lower IPL setting can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. A lower setting may not be as effective at removing hair, but it is less likely to cause irritation or ingrown hairs.
- Avoid sun exposure before and after IPL treatment: Sun exposure can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoid sun exposure for at least 24 hours before and after IPL treatment and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- Moisturize after IPL treatment: Moisturizing your skin after IPL treatment can help prevent ingrown hairs by keeping the skin hydrated and soft. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer that is gentle on the skin.
- Follow the recommended treatment schedule: Following the recommended treatment schedule can help prevent ingrown hairs by ensuring that hair is treated at the correct stage of growth. IPL treatments should be spaced out according to the recommended schedule to ensure the best results.
Benefits of IPL Hair Removal
IPL hair removal has several benefits over other methods of hair removal, including:
- Long-lasting results: IPL hair removal can provide long-lasting results, with many people experiencing permanent hair reduction after several treatments.
- Cost-effective: While IPL hair removal may initially be more expensive than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or shaving, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for regular hair removal.
- Less painful: IPL hair removal is less painful than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or electrolysis.
Conclusion
IPL hair removal is an effective method of hair removal that can provide long-lasting results. However, it can also cause ingrown hairs if not used correctly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can avoid ingrown hairs and achieve the best results from IPL hair removal.
FAQs
Is IPL hair removal painful?
Most people find IPL hair removal to be less painful than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or electrolysis. However, some people may experience mild discomfort during the treatment.
How long does IPL hair removal take?
The length of an IPL hair removal session depends on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas, such as the upper lip, may only take a few minutes, while larger areas, such as the legs, may take up to an hour.
How many IPL hair removal sessions are needed for best results?
The number of IPL hair removal sessions needed for best results varies depending on the individual and the area being treated. Most people require 6-8 sessions spaced several weeks apart for optimal results.
Are there any side effects of IPL hair removal?
Common side effects of IPL hair removal include redness, swelling, and mild discomfort in the treated area. These side effects usually resolve within a few hours to a few days. In rare cases, IPL hair removal can cause blistering, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation. It is important to choose a reputable provider and follow all aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of side effects.
Sources
- “Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Hair Removal.” American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/intense-pulsed-light-hair-removal
- “IPL Hair Removal: What to Know.” WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/ipl-hair-removal
- “The Pros and Cons of IPL Hair Removal.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/ipl-hair-removal-pros-and-cons
- “Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Hair Removal.” Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/intense-pulsed-light-ipl-for-hair-removal
- “IPL Hair Removal: What You Need to Know.” RealSelf. https://www.realself.com/ipl-hair-removal
