Can I use IPL anywhere on my body?
IPL can treat any part of the external body except for the eye area. It is for men and women.
Can darker skin be treated?
Darker skin colour means that more melanin pigment is concentrated in the superficial layers of the skin. Melanin absorbs a lot of the thermal heat energy of the lasers and IPL light emissions making this an undesirable candidate for IPL treatments. People with a tan or darker skin pigment cannot be treated at full capacity therefore reducing the effectiveness of the treatment and increasing the risks of a negative reaction (blistering, pigmentation, etc.) Darker skin can be treated with the right machine but the results may take longer to achieve.
How many treatments are required for a successful IPL treatment?
For hair reduction you will need between 6 and 10 treatments, 4 to 6 weeks apart on each area depending on your skin and hair type. Some people require a maintenance treatment once a year or so.
What will happen after my hair reduction IPL treatment?
In the week to 2 weeks following your treatment your hair will fall out of the treated area. About 20 – 30% of your hairs are destroyed with each treatment session and the rest will grow back slowly. With each session your hair will become finer and less dense.
Before Your IPL treatment:
You must also avoid any sun exposure to the areas to be treated. This includes any solariums for about one month prior to any IPL treatment. Using an SPF 30+ sunscreen will help to minimise any sun exposure prior to treatment.
Specific aftercare guidelines:
• Wear your sunscreen at all times – no exception regardless of the weather.
• Treat your skin gently – do not scrub, scratch or pick at it.
• Use only your prescribed skincare products – do not mix and match others.
• Avoid all sun exposure – especially sun-beds.
• Do not use a sauna or hot tub for 2 weeks after treatment.
• You can use an ice pack post treatment.
Aftercare recommended products:
Sun block – not negotiable!
