Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): What You Should Know?

IPL, an acronym for intense pulse light treatment, is an alternative cosmetic treatment that is used in treating skin conditions and hair removals. It is similar to laser therapy. In this article, we will reveal to you everything you need to know about IPL. What is IPL Treatment? Intense pulse light treatment is a medical procedure that involves the treatment of certain skin conditions using the light of varying wavelengths. The light penetrates the epidermis (top skin layer) down to the dermis (second skin layer) where the skin cell pigments absorb the light to elicit treatment of the skin condition it is targeted at. How Does IPL Work? IPL treatments target the melanin in your skin. A handheld flashgun is held across the skin delivering a spectrum of light, adjusted to a particular wavelength, down the skin layers. The light spectrum travels until it hits the hair root where melanin concentration is high. As the hair root absorbs the light, the light energy is converted to heat energy, which heats it. The hair root becomes disintegrated. This prevents the future growth of the targeted hair and makes the dark color on the skin to fade. What Can IPL Work On? 1. IPL treatment is used for the treatment of a range of skin issues. They include: Keloid scars Stretch marks Scars Freckles Melasma Hyperpigmentation Rosacea Sunburns2. Clinical studies of the IPL for hair removal on different skin types have been performed and published, showing that with appropriate care IPL can be used successfully in all skin types. (International Journal of Cosmmetic Surgery and Aesthethetic Dermatology). Is IPL Safe for All Types of Body Hair? Yes, IPL is safe to use on the skin around your genitals, such as the bikini area, Brazilian wax area, and buttocks. Furthermore, clinical results by the National Institute of Health concluded that IPL is safe and effective for almost all areas of hair removal. However, please avoid using it on the following areas: the eyes, or around the eyes tattooed areas parts of the skin with open wounds birthmarks, moles or warts areas that have plastic surgery How Long Does IPL Last for Hair Removal? IPL hair removal treatments are a great way to achieve long-lasting results without the hassle of shaving or waxing. But it can be hard to know how often you should get IPL treatments to achieve optimal results. In the beginning of your treatments, we recommend getting an IPL treatment every 4-6 weeks. This interval allows the treatment to work its magic and ensures that new hair growth is effectively treated. After each treatment, you will notice that your hair becomes thinner and slower-growing. Eventually, you may only need treatments once every few months to maintain results. Safety, Risks, and Side Effects for Hair Removal Compared to laser treatment, intense pulse light treatment is safe to use. Unlike the laser treatment that focuses on just one wavelength of light at the skin, IPL treatment releases different light wavelengths. This makes penetrable deep into the skin without causing any harm. This treatment does not involve a light spectrum that causes or increases skin cancer. However, IPL treatment is not safe for pregnant women and those on blood thinners. This procedure works better on light skin than on black skin. Because the light spectrum targets melanin, this may cause skin discoloration for dark-skinned persons. Top Hair Removal Device – Ulike Ulike IPL Technology Ulike utilizes a dynamic combination of IPL and patented cooling technology producing unparallel performance and comfort. Ulike’s patented Ice-cooling System is the most effective cooling technology for IPL devices on the market. Not only does it increase user comfort and eliminate any side effects, but it also increases treatment efficiency. Ulike delivers an advanced device that offers a hassle-free, nearly painless hair removal experience right at home. How to Use Ulike: Before and After Using What To Do Before the Treatment? Keep your skin clean and free of excess oils, dead skin cells, and impurities by exfoliating regularly. Stop using any artificial tanners or getting a natural tan from sun rays. Find a device that is compatible with your skin tone and hair color. Also, go through the instructions for your IPL handset. Avoid sun exposure by staying indoors and wearing sunscreen constantly. Shave or trim the hair you want to treat. Never go for hair removal methods that pluck the hair out of the roots like waxing and threading. Do a patch test 24 hours before officially starting your IPL hair removal treatment. Do not forget to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses. What to do After the Treatment? Avoid using any harsh soaps or exfoliants on your skin for at least 24 hours after the treatment. Opt for cool or lukewarm showers instead of hot showers as these could aggravate the lasered area. Apply a soothing moisturizer to help calm the skin. Avoid using any other hair removal methods, such as shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams, for at least 72 hours after the treatment. Avoid direct sunlight exposure for at least 48 hours. Apply a generous amount of SPF 30+ sunscreen if you do go outside. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that will make you sweat for 24 hours following the treatment. Conclusion IPL is a versatile therapy with many applications, from the treatment of skin conditions to hair removal and skin rejuvenation. The Ulike system is becoming a medical-esthetical procedure of increasing importance. Its robust technology has enabled it to cover larger areas with a series of benefits in terms of clinical effectiveness and safety, while minimizing side effects. Anna Chacon Dr. Anna Chacón is a board-certified dermatologist with licenses to practice in 53 states, and her dedication to dermatology goes far beyond the ordinary. Her mission is to assist patients in managing skin diseases and enhancing their quality of life. She provides them with the tools they need to improve their skin health, going the extra mile to ensure their well-being.