Shaving vs. IPL Hair Removal: Which is Better for You?

Do you ever feel tired of constantly having to remove undesired hair from your body making you look for some long-lasting methods of hair removal like IPL? Or does the price of a good IPL machine make you wonder if it is worth it when you can get through the year spending a few dozen dollars on safety razors. Related reading How to Use a Safety Razor: Double-Edge Razor Plucking vs Shaving: Is Plucking Better Than Shaving? Also, the convenience of carrying a razor anywhere in contrast to the whole IPL kit makes you more confused, right? There are several factors which can be considered while finding the answer to which of the both is more suitable for you. The factors are mainly based on how much money, effort, and time you will have to spend removing the objectionable hair. So, let us know about the comprehensive details of both methods to finally choose the one you’d love aa your life. 1. Shaving vs IPL: How it Works The first thing you should mind is what is the strategy of hair removal behind both methods. Shaving is pretty simple. It is the use of blades attached to a plastic body in the way that when moved over the skin surface, the skin is pulled taut and the hair is trimmed making it invisible above the skin. But remember that the hair cell is skin alive. Related reading Waxing vs Shaving: Is Waxing Better than Shaving? Ulike Air 10 vs. Kenzzi Multi Pro+: At Home IPL Hair Removal With IPL hair removal, you have to shave the skin normally. After that, the semi-long-lasting hair removal device comes into play. Just like you move the shaving razor over your skin, you can glide the IPL machine. With IPL hair removal, it's important to note that shaving is a crucial preparatory step. This process ensures that the device can effectively target the hair follicles for optimal results. Also, there is a stamping mode for areas like armpits. Regardless, both modes flash a powerful beam of light that gets into the hair. Then it kills the hair follicles by heating them at the level of hair roots. The stamping mode is particularly useful for delicate areas, like armpits, where precision is essential. This targeted approach enhances the effectiveness of the IPL treatment. 2. Shaving vs IPL: How Long its Results Lasts Keeping the principle of hair removal with shaving and IPL in mind along with the level at which hair is cut, it is easy to determine how long the results can last. As hair is just under the skin, they’d grow normally at a rate of 0.5 mm per day coming out of the skin and becoming visible in as little as 3 days. The growth rate remains the same whenever you shave them. Although the hair is cut at the same level as that of shaving in IPL hair removal, the hair is acted upon by IPL light which puts them in a dormant phase. So, the hair regrowth is delayed. The \1 refers to a state where hair growth is temporarily halted, which can lead to a longer period before needing to remove hair again. Also, the hair comes back finer and softer because of the direct effect of rays on hair follicles. Thus, results last for 6 months to a year. The \1 hair regrowth can result in a more comfortable experience during subsequent hair removal sessions. 3. Shaving vs. IPL: Which Tools Are Needed If you would like hair removal with fewer tools, shaving can be perfect. It is because a new and sharp shaving razor along with a skin-soothing gel or cream is more than enough. Soap can easily replace pre-shaving products. Shaving is often \1, making it an accessible option for many looking for immediate results. In IPL hair removal, you need a whole set of tools so that you can do your salon-like laser hair removal session at home. So, this list includes a shaving razor and an IPL device of course. Having the right \1 is essential for effective hair removal, ensuring you achieve the best possible results. Additionally, you need a charger to power the device, a pair of safety goggles to protect your eyes from flashing UV light from an IPL device, and a box to keep these tools. So, here we have a few suggestions for the Best hair removal IPL devices . Out of these, Ulike Air 10 grabs the attention as it provides all necessary hair removal items in its IPL kit. 4. Shaving vs. IPL: Safety As long as you do it right, both IPL hair removal devices are safe to use as they are cleared by IPL and shaving is also skin-safe as it does not impart any long-term risks or side effects to the skin. On the other hand, unsafe practices like going reckless with a razor and wearing no glasses in IPL can leave you regret trying any of the two methods. Practicing safe methods is crucial to avoid \1, which can arise from improper use of either hair removal method. So, the safety of both is comparable. It is just that you might feel post-treated skin irritation with shaving while IPL devices Ulike have built-in technology to keep your skin cool and redness or irritation-free. Post-treatment skin irritation from shaving can be uncomfortable, while IPL devices like Ulike are designed to minimize this issue through advanced cooling technology. 5. Shaving vs. IPL: Effectiveness If we talk about making you hairless within minutes, both methods are effective. However, if we get into the details of efficiency in terms of the effect on hair regrowth, IPL hair removal is better because it eliminates hair while shaving just cutting it produces coarse-looking hair ends. In addition, shaving also exfoliates the skin mildly while some IPL devices can be used for skin rejuvenation making IPL more efficient in terms of additional benefits as well. Shaving provides mild exfoliation, whereas some IPL devices offer skin rejuvenation, enhancing their overall effectiveness beyond hair removal. 6. Shaving vs IPL: Advantages What makes shaving better than IPL or IPL better than shaving can be determined by looking at the advantages of both one by one. So, the following are the benefits of shaving vs IPL. Pros of Shaving Shaving is quick and easy. You need no skills to shave your hair at home making it a suitable method for beginners. Moreover, the full body can be shaved within an hour. Shaving is quick and easy, requiring no special skills, making it accessible for beginners and allowing a full body shave in an hour. Shaving's quick and easy nature makes it an ideal choice for those new to hair removal, allowing for a full body shave in under an hour. With the requirement of a single tool that cuts hair in one stroke, shaving can be done anywhere and anytime. Shaving can be done anywhere and anytime with just one tool, providing flexibility and convenience for users. Shaving's simplicity allows it to be performed anywhere and anytime, needing only a single tool that effectively cuts hair with one stroke. As the razor does not irritate nerves, hair removal is completely nearly painless. Also, shaving is compatible with hair removal in any season. A pack of shaving razors containing 5 or more razors can be bought for $5-20. Also, some disposable razors are available. So, shaving is both inexpensive and travel-friendly. Shaving is not only cost-effective but also convenient for those who travel frequently, as it can be easily packed and used on the go. Pros of IPL Hair removal with IPL devices is also fast and simple. In addition, it is effective as IPL devices work deeper than just the surface. The effectiveness of IPL devices comes from their ability to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, making them a popular choice for longer-lasting results. IPL hair removal is also completely nearly painless. And devices like Ulike Air 10 provide a sapphire ice-cooling effect on the skin to make you chill as you remove unwanted hair. IPL hair removal is designed to minimize discomfort, making it an appealing option for those sensitive to pain. IPL hair removal is designed to minimize discomfort, making it an appealing option for those sensitive to pain. Although a little costly at first, IPL is the most wallet-friendly method when the years to come are considered. The initial investment in IPL devices can be offset by the long-term savings on hair removal costs. The initial investment in IPL devices can be offset by the long-term savings on hair removal costs. IPL devices show results within a few sessions and about 96% of your hair is gone in 2 weeks with Ulike. After 2 months of regular use, you can enjoy hairlessness for up to a year. With consistent use, IPL devices can significantly reduce hair growth, providing lasting results. With consistent use, IPL devices can significantly reduce hair growth, providing lasting results. There is no specific downtime after IPL helping you stay bound to your routine. This means you can enjoy your regular activities without interruption after your IPL treatment. This means you can enjoy your regular activities without interruption after your IPL treatment. IPL devices are even faster than shaving. You can have all the hair burnt with Air 10 in 12 minutes. IPL devices provide a quick solution for hair removal, making them a convenient option for those with busy schedules. IPL devices prevent skin redness, ingrown hair, and irritation. Preventing skin issues can lead to a more comfortable hair removal experience and healthier skin over time. 7. Shaving vs. IPL: Disadvantages It is important to know the disadvantages of shaving and IPL devices to prepare yourself mentally and physically for what is to come and take measures to avoid it. So, let us know the side effects of both below. Understanding the disadvantages can help you make an informed decision about which hair removal method is best for your needs. Cons of shaving Although nearly painless, shaving causes skin redness, itching, and Ingrown hair. You can check the reason behind it by giving why my legs itch after shaving . Informed choices about hair removal methods can lead to a more satisfactory grooming routine. Skin irritation from shaving can be bothersome, and using proper techniques or products may help reduce these effects. Although quick to do, shaving only lasts for 3 days at maximum making you get the razor often. Blunt shaving blades can damage the skin and lead to razor cuts. And changing the blade every time you shave is not practical. Using blunt blades increases the risk of skin irritation and discomfort, making it vital to replace blades regularly for a better shaving experience. Using blunt blades increases the risk of skin irritation and discomfort, making it vital to replace blades regularly for a better shaving experience. The blunt hair regrowth after shaving makes them appear thicker which is not a pleasing sight to women having dark hair. The appearance of thicker hair after shaving can be particularly concerning for those with darker hair, potentially affecting their confidence. The appearance of thicker hair after shaving can be particularly concerning for those with darker hair, potentially affecting their confidence. Shaving can also lead to infection when your skin is not clean and the razor is not sterilized. To minimize the risk of infection, always ensure your skin is clean and the razor is properly sterilized before shaving. To minimize the risk of infection, always ensure your skin is clean and the razor is properly sterilized before shaving. Cons of IPL Having to pay over $300 for a reliable IPL machine at once might be out of budget. But fortunately, some IPL devices offer discounts and payment in installments. While IPL may provide long-lasting results, it's important to note that it does not have FDA clearance as a permanent hair removal method, which may affect user confidence. Budget-conscious consumers may find the initial investment for an IPL machine challenging, but exploring discounts and installment plans can make it more accessible. Even after IPL provides long-lasting results, it is not the FDA-cleared method of long-lasting hair removal. Similar to other hair removal methods, users with darker skin tones or light hair may find that results can vary with IPL treatments. For individuals with darker skin tones or lighter hair colors, IPL may not be effective due to its dependence on contrast between hair and skin tone. IPL does not work on dark skin tones and light hair colors. Users should be aware that while some devices may cause discomfort, many find the results worth it for effective hair removal. While some users may experience discomfort, it's worth considering that individual experiences with stinging sensations can differ from person to person. Some IPL devices like Silk’N Infinity cause a stinging sensation during the session. Keeping active products on hold for 24 hours and avoiding exposure to the sun after an IPL treatment can be a hassle. 8. Shaving vs. IPL: Contraindications No method of hair removal can be used by every individual on this planet. So, let us see the limitations to shaving and IPL hair removal below. Shaving Contraindications Irritated or sensitive skin Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis Dry skin PCOS as hair regrowth might become thicker Compromised skin barrier and skin lesions IPL contraindications Dark brown and black skin tone Pregnancy Artificially tanned skin Blisters and models Tattoos and open wounds 9. Shaving vs. IPL: Comparison Table Now let us take a bird’s eye view of the features we have discussed in detail in the form of a table here. Parameter Shaving IPL Winner Cost $5 to $20 per pack $300-400 for life IPL Time is taken in treatment Up to an hour 10-15 minutes IPL Results lasting for 3 to 5 days 6 months to a year IPL Skin-friendly Less More IPL Nearly painless Yes Yes Both Compatible with Full body and face Full body and face Both Hair regrowth Blunt ends Fine and thin hair IPL Skin and hair color All All except dark skin and light hair Shaving Can be done during pregnancy Yes No Shaving Can be done over tattoos Yes No Shaving Shaving vs. IPL: Which One You Should Choose If you are looking for a short-term, quick-fix, and inexpensive solution to hair removal, shaving is a suitable one. However, if you would rather spend some money on hair removal that lasts for a long term and have minimal to no side effects, IPL is definitely for you. Especially with devices like Ulike IPL device , you can get results within 2 weeks, treatment within 12 minutes, nearly painless hair removal, and customized treatment for the body, face, underarms, and bikini areas. Additionally, check hair removals for summer-ready skin for more options. Mariela