Are you struggling with skin irritation or unsatisfactory results from your IPL sessions? It might not be your device but rather the technique that’s causing the issue. To achieve the best results from your IPL hair removal treatments, follow these essential pre- and post-care tips. We’ll guide you through the steps to ensure your high-quality device delivers top-notch results.
Table of Contents:
Pre-Care for IPL Hair Removal Treatment
What to Do
1. Choose a Premium Device
For effective and long-lasting hair removal, invest in a high-quality IPL device. While all IPL devices use heated light to target hair follicles, they vary in treatment duration and modes, safety features, pain reduction technologies, and the amount of time needed to see results. Select a device that meets your needs for the best experience.
2. Check Skin Tone Compatibility and Read the Manual
IPL devices work by targeting the contrast between skin tone and hair color. Consult compatibility charts available online or with your device. Also, read the instruction manual to understand your device’s features and ensure you use it correctly. Why waste time and money on something that won’t work for you?
3. Start at the Lowest Intensity Level
IPL devices offer various intensity levels. If your device has no automatic sensor, begin with the lowest setting to gauge your tolerance and avoid burns. Gradually increase to the optimal intensity to achieve effective hair removal.
4. Cleanse and Exfoliate the Skin
Thoroughly cleanse your skin before your IPL treatment to remove makeup, residues, and impurities. Exfoliate a day before to reduce the risk of complications and ensure a smooth surface for the IPL treatment.
5. Shave the Area
To allow IPL rays to reach the hair roots, shave the treatment area before your session. This prevents the smell of singed hair and ensures effective results.
6. Keep the Skin Dry
IPL works best on dry skin. Ensure your skin is free from moisture and sweat during treatment to maximize effectiveness.
7. Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure
Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen daily for at least 2–4 weeks before your treatment. This prevents skin tanning and sensitivity, which can adversely affect your IPL results.
What to Avoid
1. Plucking/Tweezing or Waxing Hair
Avoid these methods for at least a week before your IPL treatment, as they remove hair from the root and make IPL ineffective.
2. Overusing the Device
Limit IPL flashes to one or two per area. Excessive use can cause skin damage and blisters. Ensure even coverage without over-treating any spot.
3. Continuing Treatment When It Hurts
IPL should be only mildly uncomfortable, not painful. If you experience significant discomfort, stop and consult a doctor.
4. Using Makeup and Harsh Skincare Ingredients
Remove makeup before treatment and avoid skincare products with active ingredients like retinol a week prior. These can increase skin sensitivity. Also, avoid self-tanners and natural tanning for a month before treatment.
5. Using on Tattoos, Warts, or Birthmarks
Avoid IPL on areas with tattoos, warts, or birthmarks, as these can absorb excessive light and cause harm.
Post-Care for IPL Hair Removal Treatment
What to Do
1. Clean the Device
After each session, clean your IPL device to remove bacteria and impurities, which also extends its lifespan.
2. Moisturize the Skin
Apply a soothing moisturizer like aloe vera to calm your skin and keep it hydrated after treatment.
3. Apply a Cold Compress
If your device lacks cooling technology, use a cold compress to relieve any post-treatment discomfort. Some deodorants may work well at keeping your skin cool, dry, and fragrant after a treatment.
4. Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure
Continue to protect your skin from the sun for 1–3 days post-treatment to prevent irritation and sun damage.
5. Be Patient
IPL hair removal requires time and consistency. Stick to your treatment schedule to achieve optimal results, as hair grows in cycles and requires multiple sessions.
What to Avoid
1. Plucking Remaining Hair
Avoid plucking or waxing between sessions. There will likely be a few stragglers between sessions, but you must resist the urge to pull them out. If necessary, shave to maintain smoothness between sessions.
2. Activities That Cause Sweating
Avoid hot baths, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 2 days after treatment to prevent skin irritation such as swelling, redness, and tenderness.
3. Using Harsh Products
Refrain from using physical or chemical scrubs, active skincare ingredients such as glycolic acid, bleaching creams, and harsh soaps for at least 1–2 days. Opt for gentle, nourishing products.
Conclusion
IPL hair removal offers an affordable and gentle alternative to laser treatments, but proper pre- and post-care are crucial for success. By following these tips, you can ensure your IPL sessions go smoothly and are both safe and effective.
