Laser Hair Removal / IPL Services

Laser hair removal uses a laser, an acronym for light amplified by stimulated emission of radiation, to target and destroy the hair follicle with heat.  A laser is a collimated beam of light with one specific wavelength. The laser used to destroy hair follicles permanently has a wavelength of 755nm, 810nm, or 1064nm and is an Alexandrite, Diode, or NdYag.

Intense pulsed light is a type of technology that produces a flash of light containing a range of wavelengths from 500nm to 1200nm. Just like lasers, the light targets and destroys the hair follicle with heat.

Both laser or IPL light is flashed through the skin, reaching the depth of the hair follicle. The pigment in the hair attracts the light and then is converted to heat, essentially destroying the cells that produce the hair. If the hair has no pigment, there is no target -- meaning white, gray, and red hairs will not be affected. Not all the cells are destroyed in one treatment; therefore, repeat sessions are required.

IPL produces heat along with a snapping sensation during treatment. At Wooskin and Laser, our specific IPL device is unique because it has a built-in ice-cold crystal tip that touches and cools the skin before, during, and after each flash of light. This process protects the skin from burns while absorbing excess heat for a comfortable treatment.

Immediately after your treatment, you may feel warm and tender to the touch. You may temporarily experience a “rash,” which is redness and swelling around the hair follicles. Within a few days, the treated hair will look like it’s growing but will shed from the skin, and hair will grow back thinner and finer after each treatment and until it is fully reduced or eliminated.

Results vary, but a series of approximately 6 treatments are needed for everyone and is spaced 4-8 weeks apart.

IPL is done in a clean environment by a skincare professional or aesthetician. The aesthetician will use a handheld device that will be passed over the area for hair removal and a light pulse will be emitted targeting the hair follicles. After the treatment a cooling gel can be applied to minimize redness and discomfort.

The results are varied based on the individual and the area you are getting hair removal but, most people see a significant reduction in hair growth after several treatments. It takes several sessions to see the results because the follicle needs to gradually be destroyed to reduce complications and discomfort.

There can be mild side effects from IPL hair removal such as slight swelling, redness, and some skin irritation. Each person’s skin reacts differently. If you follow your aftercare instructions that your skincare professional provides you after the treatment your side effects can be reduced and complications rare.

IPL hair removal works on most skin types much better than traditional laser hair removal. Sometimes really light hair is resistant and very dark hair can be too receptive. A skincare expert or aesthetician will help you determine this during your consultation.

IPL hair removal can be done on areas of the body such as the legs, arms, underarms, bikini area, back, and sometimes on certain areas of the face. Your skincare professional will help you decide what is best for your situation.

IPL hair removal is less expensive than laser hair removal in most cases as it can take less sessions with the broad-spectrum light pulses for better results. During your treatment plan your skincare professional will recommend a treatment plan.

An IPL treatment can take between 15 minutes to 1 hour depending upon the area of skin that is being treated. The larger the area, the longer the session.

IPL is a non-invasive procedure that does not require any downtime after treatment sessions. Your skin may be slightly red or sensitive for a few days after treatments, but it should not affect daily activities. After a treatment you should avoid sun exposure and use sun protection and avoid exfoliating the areas a few days.

IPL can be used with waxing and shaving but it has to be done as directed from your aesthetician. Your skincare professional will provide instructions for best results.

IPL is technically considered a long-term hair reduction and not permanent as some people require maintenance sessions occasionally to keep the results. Each person reacts differently and for many it works very well.

After IPL treatments, you may experience some redness, skin irritation, and mild swelling. Avoid exfoliating the treatment area, wear sunscreen and reduce sun exposure, and avoid any strenuous activities that may irritate the area. Following the aftercare instructions such as mentioned above and using the recommended skincare products for the treatment area will reduce complications and increase comfort after your sessions.

IPL hair removal is less expensive or at least the same average as similar hair removal treatments for most individuals. The cost will vary based on where you live, what area of the body you are treating, and how many sessions you need to achieve the results you desire. Many skincare professionals offer packages that reduce the overall cost. Typically, long term hair removal is a cost-effective solution as there is little to no ongoing maintenance cost regularly such as shaving, and waxing. Most people find the initial investment well worth it!