IPL vs Laser: How Do They Work

Today, intense pulse light and laser are known popular long-lasting hair reduction methods. Understanding how they work and what is different between each modality will help us understand what to expect.

Understanding the differences between IPL and laser treatments can significantly impact your choice of hair reduction method.

How does Laser Hair Removal work?

A laser essentially uses a single wavelength of light. Regarding laser hair removal, this wavelength is meant to reach one specific target- melanin. This is the pigment unit in the skin that gives it color. Light energy is best absorbed by darker colors, and hence, the greater the amount of melanin, the better it can absorb the light energy. 

This light energy is converted into heat, which slowly destroys the ability of the hair root to produce hair as it normally does, thereby leading to a reduction in hair growth over a period of time.

This process effectively reduces hair growth by targeting the hair follicles, making it a popular choice for long-term hair removal.

Hence, lasers are powerful, as nearly 100% of the light energy can be directed to the target, which is the melanin present in the hair root in this case, and thus produce good results. 

The precision of lasers allows for effective targeting of hair roots, enhancing the overall efficacy of the treatment.

How does Intense Pulse Light for Hair Reduction work?

As the name suggests, this uses light energy that includes a broad spectrum of wavelengths to target melanin present in the hair bulb. Unlike lasers, they are not as focused and powerful; however, this also means their safety profile and the number of side effects associated with their use are lesser than those associated with lasers.

Both lasers and intense pulse light work on a similar basis. They both target the melanin in the hair root and slowly decrease the hair bulb’s ability to replicate and grow new hair. Laser hair reduction is a good option to opt for if you do not mind going for regular visits to your dermatologist’s office. Intense pulse light for hair reduction is available for at-home hair reduction. Ensure you use only FDA-cleared devices from reputable brands like the Ulike Air 3, which are known to produce results and are safe and effective for at-home use. 

Dr. Sanober Doctor

Sanober Pezad Doctor is a double-board certified dermatologist, & a leading expert in Integrative and holistic Dermatology. She is the face behind the popular YouTube channel- Healthy Aging with Dr. Doctor. She is also the founder & creator of ‘AGEnesis™- The Holistic Aging Blueprint’ & ‘Baby SkinWise™- the World's 1st Audiovisual Skincare Guide for Parents‘.