The Science (Hair Removal)

Advanced Intense Pulsed Light treatment

Advanced Intense Pulsed Light is a permanent hair reduction method based on light and the principle of selective photothermolysis. The hair absorbs the energy from the light, where it converts into heat and inhibits the hair growth mechanisms of each hair follicle. IPL has proved to be more versatile and flexible in treating a ranging of hair colours (excluding white and grey).

Advanced Intense Pulsed Light system produces a non-laser, non-coherent, light of variable wavelengths. Very short bursts of broad spectrum light are applied to the treatment area and passes through the skin. The energy of the light is absorbed by areas where melanin is concentrated. The light energy converts into heat energy where the temperature rises around 65-70C, this heat than damages the hair producing capability of the hair follicle, its ability to re growth destroyed.

The more commonly-used laser hair removal treatments depend on the high level of energy in the laser light being taken up by the melanin pigment within the hair. The melanin converts the energy into heat, destroying not only the hair but the hair matrix and hair bulb at the base of the follicle. The heat generated in the hair follicle is conducted down to the base of the follicle much more readily in an anagen hair (which is still connected to the base of the follicle) than in the resting telogen hair (when any heat generated has to cross the gap to reach the future hair-producing region). This is why most effective laser hair removal occurs when the follicles are in the active anogen growing phase. Because not all follicles are in this phase, multiple laser hair treatments are sometimes required.  The best results also occur when there is plenty of target pigment melanin in the hair and for that reason white and grey hair cannot be treated.

What is the difference between IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and laser permanent hair reduction?
When it comes to the effect on the skin and hair, there is no difference between the hair reduction results achievable through either treatment. Both laser and IPL rely on the effects of light, however, IPL is a newer and more versatile technique which allows a wider range of skin and hair types to be treated more safely. IPL is usually a much less uncomfortable treatment to have.

How does the treatment feel?
No anaesthesia is required and most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable and evaluate the discomfort level of the treatment as being significantly less than other hair removal methods such as waxing, plucking, threading, electrolysis. Sensations vary but most describe as a light tingling sensation but not much more than a snap of a rubber band making it the preferred choice for unwanted hair.