Photoepilation technology has boomed in the beauty industry in recent years. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel lost when trying to choose the best solution for you. This article will help you better understand the two most common methods of permanent hair removal: laser hair removal and IPL (intense pulsed light).
Laser Hair Removal
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a hair reduction technique that uses concentrated light energy to directly target the melanin in the hair. The light from the laser is converted into heat, which destroys the hair follicle and eventually prevents regrowth. Typically, about 6 to 8 sessions are required to effectively target all hairs (since they grow at different rates) before achieving long-lasting results. This photoepilation technique should always be performed by a professional under medical supervision.
Areas Treated with Laser Hair Removal
Almost any area with hair can be treated with laser hair removal, provided you meet the eligibility criteria, which are determined by hair density as well as hair and skin color. In general, the lighter the skin and the darker the hair, the more effective the results will be. The most commonly treated areas include the legs, bikini, underarms, arms, back, chest, and certain areas of the face.
The Pros and Cons of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is the method of choice and comes with several advantages. Thanks to its high precision, this photoepilation technique offers shorter sessions, better results, and is perfectly suited for small, sensitive areas. As for the drawbacks, beyond the generally higher cost per session, results may vary from person to person depending on skin and hair color. In addition, it can be a somewhat painful method. However, applying a numbing cream about an hour before each session can help reduce discomfort.
IPL Hair Removal
What Is IPL Hair Removal?
IPL hair removal, or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), is a photoepilation technology that delivers broad-spectrum light pulses. These pulses are absorbed by the melanin in the hair, and the light is converted into heat. The heat destroys the hair follicle, eventually preventing regrowth.
Areas Treated with IPL Hair Removal
Since the spectrum is broader, it is well suited for treating large areas of the body such as the legs, arms, and back, as well as common areas like the underarms, bikini line, and face. Just like laser hair removal, IPL hair removal achieves the best results on light skin with dark hair.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of IPL Hair Removal
Since the spectrum is broader, this technique is well suited for larger areas and the cost per session is generally lower. It is also less painful. However, it is less effective and often requires more sessions.
Comparing Laser Hair Removal and Photoepilation
Here is a comparison table of the two photoepilation methods to help you see the differences more clearly.
| Features | Laser Hair Removal | IPL Hair Removal |
| Technology | Targeted light beam (755nm, 810nm, 1064nm) | Broad-spectrum pulsed light (IPL) |
| Precision | Highly precise, ideal for small areas | Less precise |
| Durability of results | Long-lasting results (requires few maintenance sessions) | Temporary results (requires ongoing maintenance sessions) |
| Number of sessions | Generally 6 to 8 Shorter sessions | Generally 8 to 12 Longer sessions |
| Skin/hair types | Most effective on light skin and dark hair, but depending on the laser type, can treat all skin and hair types | Most effective on light skin and dark hair |
| Discomfort | Warmth or tingling sensation | Less intense |
| Cost | Generally higher per session, but often lower overall | Lower per session, but often higher overall |
Which Photoepilation Method Is Right for You?
Here are a few aspects to consider when choosing your photoepilation treatment.
Skin and Hair Type
To determine the best method for you, it’s important to consider your skin and hair type. Keep in mind that with both techniques, the lighter your skin and the darker your hair, the better your chances of achieving optimal results. However, for darker skin and/or lighter hair, laser hair removal with advanced technologies such as the triple laser (Alexandrite, Diode, and YAG) — used at Clinique Dr. Mario F. Bernier — is the preferred option.
Budget
Depending on your budget, ask for an estimate of the number of sessions required and the cost per session to help you stay within your budget.
Condition médicale
If you have any medical condition, consult your doctor before considering photoepilation to ensure you are eligible for this treatment.
Laser Hair Removal at Clinique Dr. Mario F. Bernier
In summary, while both methods have their advantages, your condition and your needs will determine which technique is best for you. Laser hair removal offers greater precision, longer-lasting results, and requires fewer sessions, while IPL hair removal makes it possible to treat larger areas at a lower cost per session, though with more sessions (so the overall cost is generally lower). In all cases, it is important that these treatments are performed and supervised by professionals.
At the clinic of Dr. Mario F. Bernier, our specialists use a state-of-the-art laser hair removal device that is truly unique: the triple laser, the only platform offering the three most effective wavelengths (Alexandrite, Diode, and YAG). This innovative technology delivers excellent results on a wider variety of skin and hair types, while minimizing side effects and speeding up the process. Most of our patients notice visible results after just one month of photoepilation treatments!
Contactez-nous dès aujourd’hui pour qu’un de nos professionnels de la santé évalue votre situation et vous conseille de manière personnalisée et professionnelle au (514) 686-4755.