An epilator is a highly effective way of getting rid of annoying hair growth. However, you should make sure you have all the equipment you need before you start. These include protective goggles, conductive gel and a covering patch for freckles, tattoos and moles.
When should I shave before my IPL hair removal session?
For effective hair removal, we recommend a hair length of around 1 mm. To achieve this, we recommend that you shave two days before using your IPL epilator. Skin preparation must include cleansing, which involves exfoliating your skin to remove dead cells. Above all, don't use waxing, electric epilators or tweezers. They're not as effective as razors, and may not give you the results you expect once you've used your epilator.
How to use an Intense Pulsed Light device
If you have dark hair and fair skin, Intense Pulsed Light gives excellent results. This is because the contrast between the two elements makes it easier for the device to reach the melanin. In all cases, it's essential to invest in a quality device, as is the case with E-one, a true benchmark on the market.
Remember that pulsed light is compatible with dark, black or brown hair. But it won't work on red, white or very blond hair. What's more, there's no need to use pulsed light if you have dark skin. Intense pulsed light can be used on many areas of the body, such as half-legs, bikini line and underarms. Although it is possible to apply it to the arms and thighs, the results will not be as good.
If you're interested in applying the process to your face, make sure your IPL epilator is compatible, as not all models on the market are. In addition, the device should never be used on downy hair, as the heat sent through the melanin will stimulate hair growth.
Remember that this method of hair removal is not recommended for nursing or pregnant women. Likewise, remember to cover moles, tattoos, inflamed areas and freckles with specific patches.
Skin preparation
Using a pulsed-light epilator is relatively straightforward, as long as you follow the basic rules. That means preparing your skin 48 hours before your epilation session. You shave the area to be depilated and apply an exfoliant to get rid of dead cells.
Preparing your Intense Pulsed Light epilator
On more advanced models, you'll discover a multitude of functions, so we advise you to read the user manual to set up the device properly. First, you determine the most appropriate tip for the area to be depilated. Smaller tips can be used on smaller areas such as the bikini line and underarms, while larger tips can be used on half-legs.
For a corded appliance, make sure there's an electrical outlet nearby. For a battery-powered epilator, make sure it's properly charged. Finally, you adjust the light intensity according to the contrast of your skin. All these instructions can be found in the user manual.
How do I proceed with IPL hair removal?
First of all, wear protective goggles, then position the device vertically. The nozzle covers the skin completely, with direct contact. Gradually advance to “continuous flash” mode, sliding the device over the area to be treated.
Above all, follow the basic rules and avoid using the IPL device on the areolas of the breasts and on mucous membranes. Similarly, don't start your session if you've been exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a long time, or if you've just come out of a tanning salon, or if you've applied a self-tanner.
How long does an IPL epilator last?
The lifespan of your device will depend on the number of flashes. This varies from one device to another. But generally speaking, it's better to invest in a quality device, which may be more expensive, but which will last longer. Typically, flashes start at 100,000, giving you a lifespan of around two years. On a model with 450,000 flashes, you reach at least five years.
All you need to know about cleaning
Take care of your IPL epilator after every session. It's essential for optimum performance. Simply apply a soft cloth to the outer part to get rid of sweat stains. Be equally meticulous in cleaning the tips to get rid of hair build-up.
How often should I use the device?
For effective treatment, refer to the instructions for use to find out how often you should use the device. As a general rule, you repeat the hair removal session every two weeks for the first four uses. Thereafter, sessions are reduced to once a month, and then once every three months. After two years, the interval is extended to 6 months. For a complete program, you'll need a minimum of 10 sessions.
Waxing between sessions
To maintain smooth skin, it's sometimes advisable to wax between sessions. Once again, don't wax or laser. The razor will obviously be your best ally in such circumstances.
Contraindications
You shouldn't use an IPL device if you have tanned or dark skin. Otherwise, you could suffer skin discoloration and burns. It is also contraindicated during breastfeeding and pregnancy. Avoid pigmented, tattooed, damaged or irritated areas.
Additional precautions are required if you are undergoing photosensitizing medical treatment, have an autoimmune disease or have a history of skin cancer. Finally, do not use an IPL epilator if you have recent scars.
Is it better to do it at home or in a salon?
You can use an IPL epilator either at home or at an institute. Both solutions are possible, but IPL hair removal at home is unquestionably the better option. You'll save time and money. With multiple sessions at an institute, the costs add up. What's more, you don't necessarily have the time to go there regularly, which is not the case with at-home hair removal.
What areas can be waxed?
Many areas of the body are suitable for IPL hair removal. These include underarms, legs, back, bikini line, chest and face.