IPL vs LASER

Otto Joseph Placik, MD answers: Is IPL hair removal same as laser hair removal?

Ive been using IPL treatments for hair removal. Is it the same as laser hair removal? I've had 6-7 IPL treatments and I can't really see any change in hairs. I'm light-skinned and the hairs are dark. If they are different, is it worth it for me to try laser hair removal? Should I try other clinics if they are just the same?


Otto Joseph Placik, MD
8 months ago
By Otto Joseph Placik, MD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

No these terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean two different procedures.

I.P.L. stands for Intense Pulsed Light.

L.A.S.E.R. has become a word but actually stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

Individuals respond differently to these modalities, which can be effected by pigmentation, hair density and color. 

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