Everything you want to know about IPL hair removal

Plus, the at-home devices really worth your cash

At-home IPL machines have come a long way in recent years, and advancements in technology mean you can now achieve results to rival a spendy (and lengthy) in-salon course without leaving your bedroom.

Whilst we're happy to take a very relaxed approach to hair removal right now – after all, body hair is totally natural and there is nothing wrong with rocking it – if you are considering de-fluffing your bod, it's worth looking into IPL.

So, what exactly is IPL, and is it the right hair-removal method for you? (Maybe you’re more of an epilator or electric shaver kinda person?) Here, we reveal everything you need to know before considering a purchase…

What is IPL?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It’s a form of light therapy, and one of the most advanced ways to get rid of unwanted body hair.

How does IPL work?

“IPL Hair Removal is designed to help break the cycle of hair growth by targeting the hair root or follicle,Light energy is transferred through the skin’s surface and absorbed by the melanin present in the hair shaft.” Once absorbed, this light energy is converted to heat energy below the surface of the skin, which disables the hair follicle, preventing further growth. The treated hairs fall out naturally over the course of a few days (up to two weeks for some people).

Laser hair removal vs IPL

IPL often gets grouped together with laser hair removal, but the two are actually fairly different.

Jess Gregory, Consumer Marketing Manager at Philips, explains that "laser hair removal uses a monochromatic laser light, whereas IPL uses a broad spectrum pulse of light. Professional laser treatment is high-energy and focuses on selected areas," she says. Simply put, laser uses a single, concentrated light, whereas IPL uses a broader spectrum. "There are many names given to laser hair removal, but it is important to understand that IPL is not laser," she adds.

So, why are the two so commonly confused? It's really to do with the results: both methods target the melanin in the hair follicle, and can provide smooth skin in the long term. While laser hair removal can be quite the investment, IPL is generally much cheaper to have done in-salon – and can also be safely performed yourself, at home (more on that later).

Is IPL permanent?

"Even with laser treatment there is no guarantee of permanent hair removal completely," confirms Gregory.

Currently, the only way to get rid of hair permanently is through a treatment called electrolysis. However, IPL offers permanent hair reduction, meaning if you keep on top of the maintenance treatments, the hairs will remain at bay.

What skin types can try IPL?

It’s important to remember that IPL is not a suitable treatment for every skin type and tone.

"IPL is only effective on naturally dark blonde, brown and black hair and on skin tones from very pale to dark brown," says Gregory. "This is because there needs to be enough of a contrast between the skin and hair colour for the device to pick up the hair follicle. IPL will also not work on white, grey and ginger hair."

Furthermore, certain skin tones are not compatible with IPL treatments. Darker skin (five or higher on the Fitzpatrick scale) should steer clear of IPL hair removal, as the higher amounts of melanin in the skin will be picked up by the light, potentially causing damage.

In short, the most suitable candidates for IPL will have pale skin and dark, contrasting hair. If you're unsure, there's no need to worry, as many of today's best IPL devices come with in-built safety features to alleviate any guesswork.

How to use an at-home IPL device

Of course, every IPL device will come with its own bible-sized booklet of instructions and yes you must read it in full.

Generally speaking, though, you'll need to shave with a razor beforehand, then simply press your device onto the skin, where it will deliver a flash of light. As for the pain? it's not so bad: think of a quick elastic-band flick, and you're in the right territory.

There's usually a treatment phase of up to 12 weeks, which you'll need to commit to properly, and then top-ups roughly once a month thereafter.

The best at-home IPL devices

When choosing the best IPL device for you, there are a few things to consider, as not all are created equal. Firstly, there’s the number of flashes a device can deliver. “Many devices come loaded with a huge number of flashes, but if you are on a budget there are options with fewer flashes that will certainly still allow you to treat your whole body,” says Buckwell.

If you’re easily bored, a fast-acting device will stop you losing interest half-way through – however, if speed isn’t of the essence (let’s face it, you’ve got the time right now), then it might be worth opting for a stronger, rather than a faster device. Stay with us for all the details on the best IPL devices to choose from...

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