The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$500 - $2100
The Specifics
What is intense pulsed light (IPL) for unwanted hair?
Intense pulsed light (IPL) for unwanted hair is a semi-permanent hair removal treatment. IPL for unwanted hair uses high energy light pulses that are absorbed by the melanin cells of hair to cause hair follicle damage. Treated areas will see progressive reduction in hair growth over a series of treatments.
IPL for unwanted hair works most effectively on those with high contrast between their skin color and hair color. In contrast to electrolysis, an approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a permanent hair removal solution, laser hair removal and IPL are considered semi-permanent hair removal solutions.
What cosmetic concerns does an IPL for unwanted hair procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for an IPL for unwanted hair procedure?
The ideal candidate for IPL for unwanted hair has a darker hair and a light skin color with unwanted hair on the face and neck. IPL for unwanted hair is not recommended for those with light-colored hair, fine hair, or dark skin tones due to risk of abnormal pigmentation.
What is the average recovery associated with an IPL for unwanted hair procedure?
Most patients experience one to two weeks of recovery following an IPL for unwanted hair. Redness and swelling typically resolve within a few days. Candidates should not use any other forms of hair removal, swim or take hot baths, or bleach their hair following this cosmetic procedure. Sun exposure needs to be limited for up to a year to limit the risk of abnormal pigmentation.
What are the potential side effects of an IPL for unwanted hair procedure?
Possible side effects following an IPL for unwanted hair procedure include changes in the skin’s pigmentation, blistering, rendess, swelling, and bruising.
What can someone expect from the results of an IPL for Unwanted Hair procedure?
The results of IPL for unwanted hair develop over a series of progressive treatments. IPL for unwanted hair is a hair reduction procedure, not a hair removal procedure. Regular maintenance treatments will be needed for continuation of the desired aesthetic.
What is the average cost of an IPL for unwanted hair procedure?
An IPL for unwanted hair procedure can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,100. The actual cost of IPL for unwanted hair is dependent upon location, hair loss specialist or dermatologist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of IPL.
Pros
- Quick Treatment
- Slows Hair Growth
Cons
- Multiple Treatments
- Does Not Remove Hair
- Not As Effective As Laser Hair Removal
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
IPL or, intense pulsed light, targets the melanin in hair in contrast to the melanin in skin to progressively reduce the regrowth of hair. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after IPL treatments for unwanted hair.
The Takeaway
IPL for unwanted hair is a temporary hair removal solution to remove unwanted hair and significantly delay the regrowth process.
