As IPL hair removal treatments boom in popularity, it’s no wonder we’re ditching the waxing expenses and razor. These traditional methods of body hair removal along with removal creams, plucking, epilation and so on are not only tedious and time consuming but in this day of age – almost unpractical. Not to mention, the costs over the years most certainly add up too.
The benefits of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) procedures are definitely there – from precision, to a pain free positive result predictability and the speed of the treatments. And it’s well, a little more of a permanent solution for getting rid of that unwanted body hair. Like with any procedure though, there’s cautions and considerations that’s absolutely essential to weigh up prior. Here’s a few to look into before you start to reap all the rewards of IPL permanent hair removal.
1. It’s a Medical Treatment, So Check the Doctor’s Credentials
Just as fast as their hairs themselves, IPL businesses are cropping up fast. Like with any medical treatment though, it’s important to make sure you’re in safe hands and go with the right doctor. Whilst the procedure isn’t nearly as complicated as going under the knife, IPL hair removal is more than just ‘zapping’ away unwanted hair.
Consequently – like the involvement in any medical procedure – there’s a mix of potential risks that can occur. Despite all the IPL businesses popping up that claim they can rid your unwanted hair through the treatment, there’s still a great deal of training that needs to be undertaken by the doctor before they perform it. Thus, thoroughly checking the credentials of not just the doctor but the company too is essential.
Most risks and side effects associated with the treatment, like skin discoloration and swelling, can be easily avoided by choosing to do the procedure with a qualified professional who uses the right (and safest) technique and equipment. This post provides some good information about what you should look out for in a good IPL hair removal therapist. Your doctor should ask for a comprehensive medical history and be willing to answer all your concerns and questions too.
2. Not all IPL Treatments are the same
Like with the surgeon performing your treatment, not all IPL procedures will be the same. Whilst IPL permanent hair removal is definitely considered one of the best options for getting rid of unwanted hair, different treatments can produce less effective results.
As well as the various IPL treatments out there, not all machines and IPL systems on the market today are the same either. Whilst IPL is definitely one of the best and most effective ways to permanently remove unwanted hair, there are practices and the use of different systems that lead to customers paying for ineffective or damaging treatments.
It’s important you’re weary of the various treatments and the danger surrounding certain laser procedures. A few things to be aware of can include the degree of intenseness and the amount of light that’s wasted during the treatment. Familiarise yourself with the characteristics of a safe IPL treatment and make sure the doctor you choose stands by them and is highly qualified to know what the best way is.
3. Understand Your Skin Type and Hair, Will IPL be Effective?
Whilst the right IPL treatment can be extremely effective, it’s not right for everyone. Different skin types and hair can affect the results so it’s essential you know before you go into it what will work and won’t work for your circumstances.
Rule of thumb is the darker the hair, the better the treatment will work and the paler the skin, the more effective IPL is. IPL treatments are capable of working on all skin types and hair, as long as the chosen treatment type is powerful enough. Because grey doesn’t have a colour pigment, it’s the only hair type that cannot be treated by IPL as it’ll have trouble absorbing the light. This is where no-light based treatments should be used instead. A prior skin consultant with your doctor will help to determine how effective the IPL procedure will be for your situation.
4. Pre-Treatment Preparations
Like with any medical procedure, there’s a list of pre-treatment preparations your doctor will advise you consider. It’s crucial – for the success of your treatment, that you understand what you need to do and ensure it gets done before the IPL takes place.
Some of these include no tanning 6 weeks prior to the procedure. Because sun exposure and the solarium can interfere with the absorption of the laser light resulting in negative pigment changes to the skin, it’s encouraged to stay clear. This also includes any fake tan products. Thus, it can be more ideal to undergo the IPL treatment in cooler months to ensure you have less contact with the sun prior.
Any form of traditional hair removal; like waxing, shaving and plucking should be avoided at least 6 weeks before the treatment too. The aim of IPL treatments is to target the roots of the hair – and these are temporality removed when you wax or pluck.
5. Essential Prior Patch Test
To ensure your skin and hair type is right for the procedure, and to test how you may react to the IPL treatment it’s important your doctor gives you a patch test. Even if you’ve had IPL treatments in the past or on a different section of your body, the patch test will ensure effectiveness of the treatment. As the settings, machines and treatments vary so much between doctors, a patch test is absolutely essential.
Author Bio
Dr Robert Goldman is a Cosmetic Surgeon with a practice in Perth Western Australia and Cairns Queensland. Dr Goldman specialises in all medical procedures, including safe and effective IPL treatments. Follow Dr Goldman on Google+.
Great blog♥
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My Blog: http://juliemcqueen.blogspot.com
Very wise tips! Thanks for sharing!
♥♥♥
Jeanne
http://fashionmusingsdiary.com
great informations
Great tips! Thanks 🙂
Great tips! Thanks 🙂
Thanks for sharing!:)
Great informations.Thanks for sharing!
I didn’t know IPL hair removal was so complicated. Thanks!
These are definitely important precautions to take if you are considering IPL treatment. I think it’s important to take precautions with any skincare treatment. Thank you for sharing this post.
This post was really helpful.
I’ve always wanted to try IPL Hair removal so it’s great to find an article that gives you far more information so I can make a more informed decision.
cant beleive theres a lot to do before getting ipl hair removal
I don’t really think I could even consider going and doing this, but it would be something to look into because there are definitely important precautions to take in.