What does IPL stand for?

“IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and is a broad-spectrum light technology that operates across multiple wavelengths within the visible spectrum,” explains Product Expert at VIP Italia, Anastasia Lesnikova. It’s arguably the most effective hair removal technique around (even more so than your epilator) – namely because it’s a permanent hair removal system for both legs and hard-to-reach areas.

It’s widely considered to be one of the most pain-free hair removal methods, and some often compare it to the experience that you’d get at a beauty salon, but this ultimately depends on you and the device you’re using. Nowadays, many laser hair removal tools has built-in cooling technologies, which makes those quick bursts of light as painless as possible. Naturally, you should also always look to start off on the lowest settings possible to see how you react.

What’s the difference between IPL and laser?

“With IPL technology, pulses of light are applied to the skin and are absorbed by the roots of hair in the ‘growing’ phase,” Chloé said.

“This light is absorbed by the melanin, which is responsible for the pigmentation in the hair. This light energy becomes warm and stimulates the hair follicle to go into a resting phase, which causes hair to naturally shed and inhibits regrowth. As only the hairs in the growth stage are treated this way, a few sessions are required to target all the hairs to reach the required results.”

Repeated use of this technique means that, over time, regrowth is reduced. Even when it does grow back in the early days of treatment, it will grow back at a significantly slower rate. You can use IPL technology to banish hair on your legs, bikini line and in smaller areas like your underarms.

Are at-home laser hair removal machines safe?

Yes, at-home laser hair removal devices tend to be safe and most are FDA-approved. Take the Philips Lumea, for example. “It has been designed and developed with dermatologists and leading skin scientists. It has a number of in-built safety mechanisms, and when used correctly shouldn’t have any implications to the skin health.”

The biggest risk with cheaper devices is scarring – though the best way to avoid this is to start off on lower intensity levels, avoid zapping sensitive areas, avoid using the treatment for facial hair or over your neck, and do a patch testing on a small area before committing to your large areas of the body such as your legs. Beginners are advised to wait for three-four weeks post-patch test to make sure you experience no side effects.

When you start using an IPL hair removal device, you should add a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your whole-body skincare routine, as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. Also, avoid anything that can irritate your skin like serums, deodorant, hot showers, scented body lotions and perfumes for at least 24 hours after a zap.

It’s also worth remembering that these gadgets aren’t just for legs or underarms — many now come with attachments specifically designed for facial hair removal, making them more versatile for everyday use.

Remember: whether you decide to go hair-free or if you want to embrace your natural self is totally up to you.

Can anyone use IPL?

Unfortunately, IPL devices don’t work on all skin and hair types. “Hair colours and skin tone influence how suitable IPL treatment will be on an individual level, meaning that it won’t be for everyone,” Chloé told us. “IPL is most effective when there is a greater contrast between the hair colour and skin tone.” Individuals with fairer skin and dark hair have a greater contrast meaning more of the light will be absorbed by the hair rather than the skin.

As with all other IPL based treatments, this light energy is absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle. When there is not enough melanin present in the hair, for example in light blonde, white or grey hair, then IPL will not work. Equally, red hair has a different type of melanin present, which cannot absorb the light so again is not suitable for IPL treatment. IPL treatments are also not recommended for those with the darkest of dark skin tones.”

IPL, laser and diode lasers can cause skin discolouration in dark skin if the wrong type of machine is used. In fact, when there is little to no contrast between the hair and the skin, your skin will absorb the light which converts to heat and causes pain, blisters and burns. Ouch.

How to use your laser hair removal device at home

Firstly, “the area must be cleanly shaved within 24 hours prior to the treatment,” Barbara told us. “Electric razors or trimmers are not recommended as the hair is typically left too long. And do not tweeze, wax, or pluck the area being treated between or prior to sessions. Only shave the area.”

“Fake tanning products cannot be used for three-four weeks prior to treatment; the area should be thoroughly exfoliated to remove all residues,” Barbara added.

Anything else? Avoid skincare products that can be irritating, such as retinol or brightening ingredients and acidic cleansers prior to your laser hair removal treatment. And we also wouldn’t recommend using IPL devices after tattoo removal or any intensive treatments.

According to Head of Clinic at Face The Future, Kimberley Medd, it depends on your skin tone and hair colour. “Typically, the initial phase can mean using the device once every 1 to 2 weeks for the first three months,” she explains. “Then the maintenance phase could entail touch ups every 4 to 8 weeks to maintain results and prevent regrowth. It’s important to avoid overuse and be patient. Sticking to a schedule is key to getting the best results!”

Are there any drawbacks to using IPL?

According to Anastasia, the most important thing to remember is that your skin is far more prone to sun damage when you’ve had laser hair removal treatment. “IPL and laser hair removal increase skin sensitivity to UV rays, so you should avoid sun exposure and always wear SPF,” she explains. “Even minimal sun exposure triggers melanin production, which increases your risk of hyperpigmentation — especially if you have a darker skin tone.”

You’ll also want to avoid harsh skincare products, and prioritise moisture and hydration. “Your skin can be more sensitive after IPL or laser hair removal treatment, so avoid exfoliation, retinoids, and chemical peels for a few days,” Kimberley adds.