If shaving, plucking or waxing just aren’t cutting it when it comes to hair removal, IPL – aka “intense pulse light” – might be worth a try. It’s the most advanced hair removal method you can use from the comfort of your own home and works by stunting the hair cycle in its tracks to prevent regrowth. Show
Due to their high-tech nature, the best IPL hair removal devices tend to be expensive but think of the savings in the long-run too, as you won’t need to spend on trips to the salon or new razors – also cutting down your environmental waste. The best IPL devicesTo find the top performing devices - we asked our panel of testers to try a selection for three months. Here are the ones that tackled unwanted body hair with ease. Shop the edit now:
What is an IPL device?IPL is a broad-spectrum light that’s scattered across the skin to help with long-term hair reduction. It directs energy at the melanin (the pigment that gives the skin/hair its colour) in the hair follicle, heating up the hair right down to the root (where most of the melanin is concentrated) to damage the follicle without damaging the surrounding skin and and break the cycle of regrowth. Don’t expect instant results, but with regular use IPL can help prevent unwanted hair from reaching the skin’s surface. Energy, frequency, skin and hair colour are all determining factors in the efficacy of the treatment. Most of the best IPL hair removal devices are suitable for the body and face. They work by either gliding over skin, which is best for larger surface areas of the body such as your legs, or stamping (pressing onto the area), which is better for smaller areas where you need more precision. What's the difference between IPL and laser hair removal?Don’t confuse IPL with laser hair removal. Laser treatments use a different light source and target a more concentrated area. The laser method is often more powerful. You can use IPL devices at home, but if you want laser hair removal you’ll need to have it performed by a trained professional. Is IPL hair removal safe?IPL is considered safe to use, providing the device is from a reliable, trusted brand and instructions are followed as advised. Occasionally, some people may experience side effects such as redness, discomfort or, very rarely, blisters or burns. If any irritation occurs, consult a medical professional. How to use IPL devicesFor IPL hair removal to work effectively, some hair needs to be present for the energy to travel down to the follicle from the surface of the skin - but not so much that you run the risk of burning the skin. For that reason, it's best to shave before your IPL session rather than completely remove the hairs by waxing or epilating. To fully break the growth cycle of your unwanted hair, regular IPL sessions are required. Each brand advises on how often to use their machine, and when you can expect to see results. Can I use my IPL device every day?Although it comes down to the specific brand and model, most IPL devices recommend you use them once every two weeks for the initial four weeks of treatment. Once you’ve mastered this, top-ups can take place up to once a month. Note that to see the best results, you should stick to the recommended schedule to stop regrowth long-term. Make sure you note down the date you start your IPL journey and set up reminders of when to top up. Does IPL treatment remove hair permanently?Whether you’ve banished hair for good depends on your skin and hair type, as well as the area of the body involved. If you stick to a regular IPL routine, you can expect to see the majority of your hair gone for the long haul. But as an IPL device can only stunt the growth of active hair follicles, it might take a while to remove all hair. This is because some areas will grow back quicker than others. Persistence is key though, and, at the bare minimum, you can expect much slower re-growth. Does IPL hair removal hurt?The level of discomfort varies from person to person, but the sensation can feel quite tingly and hot - it’s sometimes likened to being flicked with a hot elastic band. The process is quite quick, though, so the pain doesn’t last long. Most devices have a range of heat settings to make the process more comfortable too, especially in areas that are more sensitive. It's important to remember that a lower intensity is also less effective, so keeping it at this setting would require you to use the machine for longer. If you’ve tried epilating and couldn’t get through it without your eyes weeping, rest assured this is a more pain-free method! Who can use an IPL hair removal device?IPL devices aren’t suitable for everyone, as they’re only able to identify and target hair pigment that is a contrasting shade to the skin. Naturally light blonde, red, white and grey hairs contain little pigment, so IPL typically isn’t as effective on people with these hair shades, whatever their skin colour. Many devices also don’t work on dark skin tones. Typically, those with pale to medium skin and dark hair are the best candidates for IPL. Note that they aren’t suitable for pregnant women, or those with certain skin/hair conditions, or those undergoing particular treatments. They also don’t work on tattoos or permanent makeup – so always check the small print before you buy. How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?Typically, IPL devices should be used regularly for four to 12 weeks, to make sure all visible hair has been treated. Hair should start to appear finer and grow back slower, or not at all. Top-up sessions can be done where there is any regrowth. Results vary depending on the use of the device and your skin/hair type. What to consider when buying
How we test IPL devicesOur panel of 140 testers across the UK helped us test a range of at-home IPL hair removal devices for six to 12 weeks. Testers followed the instructions provided with each device to find out how effective they were at removing hair on legs, underarms, the bikini line and upper lip. They also assessed how easy each device was to use and control, how simple the process was, and how comfortable it felt when removing hair. Finally, testers reported back on when regrowth started to appear. What is the most permanent method of hair removal?Electrolysis involves passing an electrical current through a hair follicle, which damages the follicle and prevents new hair growth. Electrolysis is the only method of permanent hair removal available.
Which hair removal removes hair permanently?Electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair. Once your hair is gone, you won't need maintenance treatments. It works on all hair types, including light-colored hairs, which lasers cannot remove. There's no downtime.
What is the best permanent hair removal solution?"This can be a time-consuming procedure as each follicle is treated individually, but electrolysis is particularly effective on individual grey hairs." The Food and Drug Administration considers electrolysis a permanent hair removal method because it has the best overall results.
What are 3 types of permanent hair removal?The three most popular permanent hair removal methods are laser, IPL, and electrolysis.
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What is the best permanent hair removal
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