IPL also known as Intense Pulsed Light is a light therapy used to perform many dermatological procedures throughout the beauty and aesthetic industries. In most cases, the technology uses a high powered handpiece to deliver multiple wavelengths from a light source. Filters are then used to emit a chosen wavelength to the skin depending on the reaction you are trying to achieve as different wavelengths have different responses from the skin.
The most popular of these treatments is Hair Removal, with most guaranteeing an 80%-90% hair reduction after just 8-12 sessions - if using high-performance equipment!
Most people get fed up of having to deal with unwanted hair on a daily or monthly basis and therefore more and more people are looking for quick, easy and comfortable treatments that are effective and give lasting results.
So, how does the technology work?
For permanent hair reduction, the hair follicle itself must be destroyed which means it must be actively growing when IPL treatments are carried out. This is why it is always advised that clients have around 6-12 sessions depending on the treatment area. With IPL, light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft to create a photothermal effect within the follicle. Essentially you are heating the hair up to destroy follicle without damaging the surrounding cells.
IPL vs Laser
During treatment the handpiece will be placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light will be released to target many follicles simultaneously. This process is then repeated on the next available area and continued until the whole treatment area has been covered. The skin may be red immediately after treatment and the hair follicles may be swollen and bumpy but this usually subsides within a few hours. It is always advised to use a soothing skincare product following treatment to help cool the area down and make more comfortable for the client.
Who can be treated with IPL?
Most people are suitable for hair removal treatments and best results are often achieved with clients who have fair skin and dark hair, as dark hair has a higher concertation of melanin and therefore is more easily treated as it absorbs light better. Treatments can take as little as 10 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the treatment area. Treatment is suitable for both the face and body, is quick and results can be seen after just a few sessions.
How many IPL treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will always vary depending on the client and their skin type, hair type etc. At Wish Skin Clinic we would always do a consultation before any sessions start to assess what kind of results the client can expect and it will also give us as practitioners the opportunity to see if the client will be happy with results, typically 6 or more treatments are required for optimum results.
Call 01639 891200 to book your free consultation or visit https://www.facebook.com/wishskinclinic
