Laser Hair Removal Burns: Causes, Treatments, And Preventions (2024)

Are you tired of repetitive waxing, shaving, or plucking? Are you searching for the perfect hair removal method? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of hair removal focusing on two popular methods: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and laser hair removal. We’ll explore the differences between these two techniques, their effectiveness, safety considerations, and much more.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which method is best suited to your needs and preferences. So let’s get the IPL vs. laser discussion started!

Before we discuss IPL and laser hair removal, let’s first understand how human hair grows. This way, you’ll have a better grasp of how laser hair removal also works.

Overall, hair growth has three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Here’s how each one takes place:

• Anagen Phase. This is the active growth phase where your hair follicle produces a new hair strand. The duration of this phase varies depending on your body area, genetics, and other factors. Also, hair removal methods are most effective during this phase.

• Catagen Phase. Also known as the transitional phase, this is when your hair follicle shrinks. It then detaches from the blood supply, which prepares it for the next phase.

• Telogen Phase. This is also called the resting phase. It’s when your hair follicle is dormant before shedding the existing hair strand. This will also start a new growth cycle, thus the loop continues.

Now, let’s dive into the fascinating world of IPL technology and how it targets unwanted hair. IPL is an acronym that stands for Intense Pulsed Light hair removal. This method uses a device that emits broad-spectrum light pulses that the melanin pigment in the hair follicles absorbs.

So how does IPL hair removal work? Here’s how this treatment works:

First, the IPL device emits a controlled pulse of light onto the skin’s surface. The melanin in the hair shaft absorbs these light pulses.

Next, the light energy converts into heat. This heat neutralizes your hair follicle and prevents future hair growth.

Over time and with repeated treatments, IPL can significantly reduce hair growth. It can also provide long-lasting results.

On the other hand, laser hair removal utilizes specific wavelengths of light to target and destroy hair follicles. This is the method that we use here at Pure Skin Laser Center. Here’s how we conduct laser hair removal:

First, we use a device called Candela GentleMax Pro. It’s a laser device that emits a concentrated beam of light that selectively targets the melanin in your hair follicles. This is paired with the Dynamic Cooling Device to reduce the discomfort on your skin, making it a gentle choice for your bikini line.

Next, your melanin absorbs the laser energy, which is then converted into heat. During this process, the heat neutralizes the follicle and prevents future hair growth.

Our laser hair removal is precise and can target multiple hair follicles simultaneously. This is why it’s popular with our clients who want to treat larger areas. In fact, our technology is so versatile that it can be used for full-face hair removal and even for full-body laser hair removal.

• Skin Type. For the most part, IPL works well on lighter skin tones with darker hair. It’s because the contrast between the hair color and skin allows the light pulses to target the melanin better.

• Hair Color. So does IPL hair removal work? It will, if you have dark hair. As we’ve mentioned, IPL is most effective on dark hair since the melanin pigment absorbs the light energy more efficiently. This means those with blonde, gray, or red hair may not see visible results right away.

• Hair Thickness. Since thicker hair absorbs more light energy, intense light therapy will be more effective. This means IPL works well on coarse hair compared to fine hair.

• Consistency. Mostly, the IPL hair remover requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. You should expect at least 6-8 treatments spaced a few weeks apart. And as with any hair removal treatment, we recommend that you finish the entire treatment plan for the best results.

• Skin and Hair Types. Our laser hair removal works well on a wide range of skin tones, including darker skin. Also, our device settings are customizable, allowing us to match it with your skin tone.

• Hair Color. Like IPL, our laser hair removal is most effective on darker hair colors due to the higher concentration of melanin. Still, we can accommodate clients with lighter hair colors but it requires additional sessions.

• Treatment Schedule. Like IPL for hair removal, our laser treatment requires multiple sessions to achieve your desired outcome. On average, we recommend 6 to 8 treatments, but it will vary based on your specific goals.

• Treatment Areas. Our laser hair removal is suitable for both small and large treatment areas. We can remove unwanted hair from your face, underarms, legs, bikini line, back, and more!

• Side Effects. Both IPL and laser hair removal can cause temporary redness, mild swelling, and skin sensitivity. Don’t worry because all these usually subsides within a few hours or days.

• Precautions. Before undergoing IPL or laser hair removal, you should avoid sun exposure and tanning beds. This is to minimize the risk of complications and to ensure the treatment’s efficacy. Aside from that, we also advise clients to shave the treatment area at least 24 hours before the treatment.

• Professional Consultation. To ensure your safety, we always conduct a one-on-one consultation. This way, we can also personalize your treatment based on your condition. During this consultation, make sure that you declare any skin problems or lingering illnesses you may have.

• Hair and Skin Type. First, evaluate your hair color, skin tone, and hair thickness. This way, you can determine which method is likely to be more effective for you. Remember that IPL works well for lighter skin tones and darker hair, while laser hair removal can be suitable for a wider range of skin and hair colors.

• Pain Tolerance. You should also consider your pain tolerance level when picking the right treatment. IPL is often described as a warm, snapping sensation, while laser hair removal is often reported as a rubber band snap. If you have a low pain threshold, you may prefer one method over the other.

• Desired Results. Next, think about your hair removal goals. Do you want to reduce hair growth or achieve long-term hair removal? IPL and laser hair removal can both provide long-lasting results, but the number of treatments and maintenance sessions may vary.

• Consultation with Professionals. To help you choose, you can always call us at Pure Skin Laser Center for professional advice. Our specialist can assess your skin and hair to see which one works best for you.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge about IPL versus laser treatment, you’re well-equipped in choosing the best option. Just make sure that your choice matches your skin, hair, and desired results.

But whatever you pick, we always recommend going to licensed professionals. This way, you’re assured of the quality of service and your safety.

Are you ready to eliminate unwanted hair? Call us at Pure Skin Laser Center and let’s start the discussion!