Intense pulsed light (IPL) and lasers are safe and effective methods of hair removal. There are slight differences between the two, and you might confuse one for the other. The primary boundary line between the two lies in the kind of light that is used. Are you torn between using a laser or intense pulsed light in Tucson due to the varying opinion in the public gallery? The professionals at Peach Medical Group can help you deal with hairy skin using any of these two options.
Read on to discover the differences between the two so that you can make an informed decision.
How do The Two Methods Work?
Both IPL and laser use the same mechanism for hair removal.
- The light from the laser or IPL is introduced into the skin and absorbed by the hair shaft’s melanin.
- Hair shaft and follicle heat up after absorbing the light.
- The use of the correct amount of light to heat the hair follicles to a critical temperature interrupts the cycle of hair growth.
- The results from both IPL and laser hair removal can be permanent or temporary, subject to several factors.
During treatment using either of the methods, your doctor strives to reach the critical temperature in the hair follicle, and at the same time, avoid heating the surrounding skin tissue to prevent damage.
Implications During The Treatment
The technological differences in the mode of operation between IPL and laser include:
- Treatment time: Since laser treatment uses concentrated beams of light, the treatment window is relatively small. IPL devices have a broad flash of light, making it possible to cover a large area of skin under treatment, which significantly reduces the treatment time.
- Pain rating: Laser treatment uses a single sharp beam of light for hair removal. This makes the method more painful than the use of IPL, which has multiple beams of light.
- Cost: It is expensive to generate laser light and this cost is passed on to you (the consumer) in terms of high procedure prices. IPL is much more affordable.
- The longevity of results: When using laser treatment for hair removal, you will require fewer top-ups between sessions, but the method is more painful than IPL.
- Safety: Laser light uses powerful beams of light, and can be dangerous if used by an inexperienced professional. The laser hair removal device used by your physician uses controlled power and is safe on your skin. IPL treatment uses less concentrated light, is safe to use and delivers long-lasting results.
So, which one is best for me?
The answer to this question depends on your budget and time constraints. Both methods can give you similar results provided you adhere to your doctor’s instructions after treatment and follow it up with top-up treatments. With IPL, you will make fewer trips to your doctor and spend much less.
Is hairpreventing you from wearing a bikini to the beach? Visit your dermatologist today to learn more about IPL or laser hair removal, and make a choice on which one can work for you.