If you’re tired of shaving, waxing, or plucking unwanted hair, you’ve likely considered more permanent solutions like laser hair removal or an at-home IPL device.
Both methods use light to target and disable hair follicles, but they’re not the same, and neither are their results.
How Do IPL and Laser Hair Removal Work?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL devices use a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths. Some of this light (the IPL soft light, not a laser) is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in your hair, which converts to heat temporarily reducing hair growth and hair coarseness.
Because IPL isn’t a laser, some weaker versions are available and gentle enough to DIY, unlike actual laser hair removal which requires a doctor’s supervision. Because it disperses so many wavelengths, the light beams are not specific or targeted, and much of the energy is absorbed by the skin, not the hair. At home devices are usually very weak light that affects the skin rather than the follicle.
Laser Hair Removal
Professional laser hair removal uses a single, focused wavelength of light to target hair follicles. The laser’s precision allows it to deliver high energy directly to the follicle without affecting the surrounding skin. This results in more effective and longer-lasting hair reduction.
Why You Should Rethink the IPL
- Inconsistent Results: Many users report that IPL results are less predictable and less long-lasting than those of professional laser treatments.
- More Sessions Needed: Most people need to use IPL devices more frequently to maintain results.
- Limited Effectiveness: IPL is less effective on certain hair and skin types, and not suitable for blonde, red, or gray hair (not to mention brown skin).
- Potential Side Effects: While generally safe, IPL can still cause burns or pigmentation changes, especially if not used correctly or on unsuitable skin types.
The IPL is NOT Safe for Tan, Brown, and Black Skin
If you have medium to brown skin and are considering the IPL, please keep reading.
Melanin, the molecule that makes skin tan, absorbs light waves very efficiently, which is why tan and brown people simply get darker in the sun and don’t burn easily. When the IPL sends its many wavelengths onto your skin, the melanin absorbs it. It is not targeted at your hair follicles like a true laser. Not only can this result in burns or hyperpigmentation, but it’s harmful to the skin and simply not meant to be absorbed like this.
Because of its relative gentleness, the IPL’s hair-removing effects don’t last very long, resulting in frequent touch-ups.
Key Differences Between IPL and Laser
Feature | IPL (At-Home/Clinical) | Professional Laser Hair Removal |
Light Type | Broad spectrum | Single, collimated, coherent, focused wavelength. |
Effectiveness | Results vary. Poor/aderse results on tan-dark skin | Highly effective, long-lasting |
Precision | Not precise | Very precise, targets follicles |
Pain Level | Vary depending on wavelength | Controlled |
Cost | Lower upfront, more sessions | Higher per session, fewer sessions |
Safety | Generally safe at home for certain skin types | Safe with professional oversight |
Skin Types | Best for light skin only | Works for all skin types |
Hair Types | Best for dark hair | Best for dark hair but effective on most hair colors |
Maintenance | Requires frequent touch-ups | Less frequent, long-lasting results |
Why Choose Professional Laser Hair Removal?
1. Precision & Effectiveness
Professional laser treatments are more powerful and precise, targeting hair follicles with high energy for maximum results. Studies show that long-term hair reduction is significantly higher with professional lasers compared to IPL.
2. Lasting Results
With professional laser hair removal, you typically need fewer sessions (often 6–8) to achieve lasting results. Many people experience years of smooth skin with minimal maintenance. IPL, while less effective and requires frequent touch-ups and may not provide long-lasting results.
3. Broader Suitability
Professional lasers can be adjusted to safely treat a wider range of skin and hair types, including some darker skin tones, thanks to advanced technology and expert oversight. IPL is generally only recommended for those with light to medium skin and dark hair, as it carries a higher risk of side effects for darker skin.
4. Safety and Expertise
Professional treatments are performed by trained technicians or dermatologists who can tailor the procedure to your skin and hair type, minimizing risks like burns, pigmentation changes, and scarring that can be caused by the IPL.
5. Time and Convenience (With a Caveat)
While IPL at home is convenient, professional laser treatments are efficient—each session is quick, and you’ll need fewer of them. Plus, you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself or scheduling at-home sessions. At Laser Affair, a bikini session only takes 15-30 minutes, and underarm appointments are 10 minutes or less!
Final thoughts
Sure, at-home IPL is handy and easy on the wallet, but if you’re after results that really last—with less fuss and fewer touch-ups—professional laser hair removal is the way to go. It’s not just about smooth skin; it’s about peace of mind, too.
Professionals know how to tailor treatments to your unique skin and hair, so you get the best outcome with the lowest risk. If you’re ready to say goodbye to razors for good, it’s always smart to chat with a qualified provider first to figure out what’s right for you.