To avoid wasting time shaving regularly, it's best to consider a tried-and-tested technique. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) hair removal delivers particularly convincing results, provided hair color and skin type are well matched.
How IPL works
Intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal is still the most popular hair removal technique, because it not only eliminates hair, but also prevents it from growing back. The device works by sending a flash of light that is transformed into heat by the hairs, and more specifically by the melanin. As a result, the hair follicles are unable to withstand the heat, leading to their destruction. Once the bulbs are gone, hair growth is inhibited.
IPL compatibility with different skin types
Skin phototypes
For an IPL epilator to work properly, you first need to consider your phototype. If you have dark hair and light skin, i.e. phototypes 1 and 2, you'll get good results. On the other hand, if you have tanned or mixed-race skin, you're phototype 3 and 4, and the results won't be as convincing. The same applies to phototypes 5 and 6, i.e. people with dark skin.
The light emitted won't be properly absorbed by the melanin, so results won't be optimal. To find out whether your phototype will give excellent results, you need to make sure that both hair pigmentation and skin pigmentation will be targeted by your device. Rest assured, all this information is normally provided by the manufacturer. In certain cases, specific settings will obviously have to be made.
Restrictions based on skin color
As explained in the previous paragraph, fair skin with dark hair will give you optimal results. This won't be the case for everyone with tanned, mixed-race or black skin. The distinction between skin color and hair color is not optimal. This is why IPL is not always effective. Rather than being disappointed by your session, it's best to take precautions beforehand. If you're pregnant, you'll need to consult your doctor.
IPL compatibility with different hair types
Hair color and thickness
Most IPL hair removal devices detect medium to thick hair, preferably with a brown, black or dark chestnut color. However, if you don't have hair of the above-mentioned colors, the removal cannot be permanent. This applies to people with white, blond, red or light-brown hair. The other point to watch is the thickness of the hair. If the hair is thin, the quantity of melanin is insufficient.
Limitations for light or fine hair
Intense pulsed light hair removal is much less effective, or even totally unsuitable, if you have light blond, white, red or very fine hair. This is due to the low level of melanin inside the hair. This substance is absolutely essential, as it is the target of the flash of light to destroy the hair follicle. If the quantity is insufficient, the hair cannot be destroyed.
Tips for maximizing IPL effectiveness
Pre-treatment preparation
To maximize results, it's essential to do some preparatory work, avoiding exposure to the sun and not using any tanning products. Likewise, remember to shave the area to be treated and use a gentle exfoliant. Irritating products should automatically be avoided, as they can cause unpleasant skin lesions.
But that's not all: remember to moisturize your skin properly, and wear only comfortable clothing to avoid unpleasant textile rubbing. If you have a medical history or are undergoing specific treatment, don't start an IPL hair removal session, but ask your doctor for advice.
Post-session care
After your Intense Pulsed Light hair removal session, you apply the same precautionary principle by avoiding exposure to the sun. Of course, the use of a moisturizing cream is still highly recommended to soothe the skin after treatment. You follow exactly the same guidelines, putting aside irritating products and avoiding hot showers.
If you're waxing an area of your face, forget make-up for at least 24 hours. In all cases, we recommend that you follow the recommendations in the user manual to the letter.
Alternatives to IPL for incompatible skin and hair types
If your hair or skin type is incompatible with IPL, there are other alternatives, such as laser hair removal. A precise and effective treatment, whatever your phototype. And don't forget the electric epilator, a traditional solution for removing hair at its root. If you're a fan of this practice, it's essential to choose a quality device.
Otherwise, turn to hot wax, cold wax or depilatory cream. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's up to you to try them out and select only the most appropriate solution.