IPL Epilation — Essence, Indications, and Contraindications

IPL is an innovative technology used to remove hair from almost any part of the body. It is based on the property of broadband light to penetrate the skin and have a selective effect on the treated area. In this case, the point of application is a hair pigment — melanin. The result of light exposure also stimulates collagen production in the skin, thus increasing its elasticity.

IPL epilation is one of the safest and most painless hairs removal methods. This is due to the briefness of skin exposure to the light beam and individual selection of power and duration of exposure for different skin types. Of course, for the safety of this procedure, one should choose a professional clinic that buys its equipment from reliable aesthetic equipment suppliers. The most important thing is professionalism and good quality!

What is IPL Epilation?

This method of photo epilation is based on the use of IPL systems. Their light source is a flashlamp, which generates high-intensity incoherent light with a 500–1200 nm wavelength range. During the procedure, the light wave’s energy is absorbed by melanin. The light energy is then transformed into heat, heating the hair follicles and destroying the vascular papillae that feed the hair. Ultimately, IPL epilation results in the irreversible destruction of the hair follicles by light. Hair removal does not occur immediately but over some time of about 5-7 days. The area where hair follicles are located is gradually filled with connective tissue.

The Working Principle of IPL

As a result of absorbing light, energy in the tissues triggers various reactions, thermal one being chief among them. After absorbing a large amount of energy, tissue is heated to a temperature at which it begins to break down — in other words, thermolysis begins. During IPL photo hair removal, this process is triggered by skin exposure to light energy, which is why it is called photo thermolysis. Light of different wavelengths is absorbed differently by tissues depending on their color, so the effectiveness of photo hair removal largely depends on the presence of melanin in follicles and the right selection of lightwave parameters.

With IPL epilation, professionals mainly use waves of such length that are optimally absorbed by melanin and minimally by other skin pigments. Photo thermolysis of the hair follicles with the least damage to other tissues is called selective. When under the influence of selective thermolysis, all cells of the hair follicles responsible for hair growth die, and hair growth stops. If the follicles are simply damaged, the hair growth cycle is disrupted, its thickness and degree of pigmentation are reduced, but it continues to grow.

Бесплатное стоковое фото с вертикальный выстрел, женщина, здравоохранение и медицина

IPL Epilation and Laser Photo Epilation: What is the Difference?

In both cases, the active factor is the light wave’s energy. In the initial development of photo epilation, only laser radiation was used. But because some properties of the laser beam — for instance, its monochromaticity and coherence — do not play a significant role in removing hair, the development of IPL systems began. Such systems have become a more accessible and cheaper version of photo epilation.

Advantages of IPL

  • IPL hair removal technology achieves long-lasting or permanent hair removal.
  • In the hair growth resumes, they are much thinner and lighter.
  • Proper performance of the procedure guarantees its absolute safety.
  • IPL systems allow treatment of large areas, such as legs and back.

Indications

Photo epilation is performed in the presence of unwanted hair on the face, armpits, legs, arms, and bikini area. It is also used to remove spider veins, age spots, and to perform rejuvenation.  The procedure is also indicated for men — for example, those with increased hair growth on the chest and back.

IPL-epilation is also prescribed for medical reasons. Here are the main ones:

  • Hypertrichosis — intense hair growth on the body;
  • Hirsutism — female hair growth of the male type due to excess male hormones;
  • Hypersensitivity of the skin, resulting in frequent facial irritation after shaving.

Contraindications

  • hypertension;
  • coronary heart disease;
  • systemic pathologies;
  • cancer diseases;
  • diabetes mellitus;
  • infectious diseases;
  • febrile conditions;
  • hemophilia and other diseases accompanied by blood clotting disorders;
  • allergic reaction to sunlight, porphyria;
  • epilepsy, susceptibility to seizures;
  • mental diseases;
  • presence of electronic devices in the body: insulin pump, pacemaker; and
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Post-Procedure Facts

  • As a rule, within a few hours after the session, there is still a feeling of sunburn. 
  • The so-called false hair growth is possible in the initial period when the dead hair is pushed out of the follicles. Hair falls out within 10-15 days.
  • Limiting water procedures and avoiding going to the pool, bath, and sauna are recommended for the first three days.
  • For about 5-7 days, it is better not to use cosmetics in the treated area.
  • For 20-25 days, you should not sunbathe. If you are exposed to the sun, you must wear sun protection with a high level of UV protection.

IPL is an advanced technology in today’s aesthetic medicine. It has proved itself quite well, so we recommend considering it for hair removal. Take care of yourself and be beautiful!