Courtesy of Erazer Clinic, Perth. Man's back hair before and after IPL treatment.
We understand that when you have unwanted body hair, you want to find a solution that's easy and effective. We are highly experienced and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. It's all about finding the right solution for you. The usual methods of removing your unwanted hair are a real chore. Shaving, waxing or using tweezers takes up precious time and can be very uncomfortable. We have an alternative — IPL hair removal, suitable for most skin types.
The science of how IPL hair removal works
The IPL (Intense Pulsed Light Therapy) hair removal procedure produces a high intensity flash of filtered light from the applicator head, which has been placed in contact with the skin. The energy from the light source is absorbed by the pigment melanin, which is the chromophore, which gives hair its colour. The hair rapidly absorbs this filtered light and transfers it to the surrounding cells that in turn are converted into heat raising them to a temperature of 70 degrees Celsius or more. The heating denatures the cells making them incapable of producing further hair growth.
How many treatments are required?
Multiple treatment sessions are required as only hair follicles in the growth phase (anagen) respond to treatment. About 15% of your follicles are resting (telophase) and will not be affected by the IPL treatment. Commonly, eight to ten treatment sessions are required to provide long-lasting reduction in hair growth.
Stubborn areas, such as beard hair in men, may require more treatment sessions. The interval between treatment sessions is usually 4 to 6 weeks, but will vary depending on the area of the body. The number and frequency of treatments required is also dependent on the density and location of hair, as well as skin type, hair colour and other factors. The IPL usually destroys between 60-90% of growing hairs at each treatment.
How does IPL hair removal feel?
Treatment sensation varies but is often described as a 'flick of an elastic band'. No anaesthetic is required and most clients describe the discomforts as moderate and tolerable.
What does the treatment involve?
At your initial consultation your goals, skin type and hair quality will determine your suitability for IPL hair removal and the optimum treatment programme for you to achieve the best results. A "test patch" will usually be performed. Eye protection is worn by the patient and the operator. The operator slowly moves a hand-piece over the treatment area as pulses of light energy are delivered. Most people experience minimal discomfort, feeling a slight tingling sensation. Some parts of the body are more sensitive than others and the skin may swell or redden slightly.
