All You Need To Know About IPL

Are you tired of the endless shaving, waxing, and plucking cycle? It might be time to consider IPL Hair Reduction, a highly effective method for reducing unwanted hair with long-lasting results. At Enchanted Skin and Beauty, we’re committed to helping you achieve smooth, hair-free skin, whether it’s your first venture into IPL or you’re ready to step up your hair removal game.

What Is IPL And How Does It Work?

IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is a popular method for reducing hair growth that uses broad-spectrum light to target and destroy hair follicles. Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength of light, IPL uses a range of wavelengths, making it versatile for treating multiple skin and hair types. The light energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair shaft. This heat damages the hair follicle, slowing or stopping future hair growth.

The beauty of IPL is that it can be performed on virtually any area of the body. From the face (think upper lip, chin, and sideburns) to larger areas like the legs, back, and chest, IPL is a flexible solution for hair reduction. For more extensive areas like the legs or back, we often use SHR (Super Hair Reduction) technology, a more advanced IPL version. SHR works by gradually heating the skin to a point where it damages the hair follicle, resulting in less discomfort and faster treatment sessions.

What Kind Of Skin And Hair Types Does IPL Work Best On?

IPL works by targeting melanin in the hair follicle, making it super effective for those with darker hair and lighter skin. This is because the contrast between the pigment in the hair and the pigment in the skin allows the IPL to effectively target the hair follicle without affecting the surrounding skin.

But if you have light blonde, grey, or red hair? The technology can’t effectively ‘see’ the hair to destroy the follicle. Similarly, those with darker skin tones need a different approach, as higher melanin levels can absorb more laser energy, leading to pigmentation risks. Not sure where you fall? That’s where our consultations come in handy.

Why Do We Say “Reduction” and Not “Removal”?

At Enchanted Skin and Beauty, you’ll often hear us talk about “hair reduction” rather than “hair removal.” That’s because while IPL is highly effective at reducing hair growth, no method can guarantee 100% permanent removal. Hormonal changes, hair types, certain medications, and even genetics can affect hair growth cycles, meaning some hair may eventually return. The good news is that most clients experience a significant reduction in hair growth that lasts for months or even years, and any regrowth tends to be finer and lighter than before.

Why We’re Big On No Bronze Before Treatment

We get it – who doesn’t love a nice tan? But when it comes to IPL treatments, we’re big on staying away from that sun-kissed glow before your treatment. Here’s why: tanning, whether from the sun, a sunbed, or even a spray tan, increases the amount of pigment (melanin) in your skin. This increased pigment makes it more difficult for the IPL to differentiate between your skin and hair, potentially leading to burns or pigmentation issues. A tan can also increase your skin’s sensitivity, raising the risk of adverse reactions. So, we kindly ask you to avoid any form of tanning if you’re preparing for an IPL treatment course.

Why You Need a Test Patch and Consultation Prior

Before diving into your IPL journey, we always recommend a test patch and consultation. You might wonder, “Why the extra step?” The test patch allows us to assess how your skin reacts to the IPL and determine the most suitable settings for your treatment. Everyone’s skin is different, and a test patch helps us ensure that the treatment is safe and effective for you.

A consultation is equally important. It’s our chance to get to know you, your skin, and your hair type better. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your medical history, any medications you’re currently taking, and your skin’s natural colour and tanning habits to create a personalised treatment plan. Think of it as your skin’s strategy session to achieve the best results!

So, are you ready to ditch the razor? IPL offers a more permanent solution to reducing unwanted hair. With a few sessions, you can say goodbye to the endless cycle of shaving, waxing, and plucking, and hello to smoother, more carefree skin. At Enchanted Skin and Beauty, our experts guide you every step of the way. Book your consultation today to get started on your smooth skin journey.