Will the effect of the laser be decreased if I switch from laser to IPL for hair removal?

Question

I had many sessions of hair removal by laser and I am almost done in my legs and underarms. I will travel abroad where dermatological clinics is very expensive so I want to buy ipl laser for maintenance. I am afraid that the effect of laser will be decreased or disappear if I change type of treatment. What do you think?

Glenn Murray, MBBS · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question.
IPL is intense pulse light and is a different technology to Laser Hair removal. If you have had great success and only few fine hairs left, IPL can still be of benefit. Keep in mind IPL offers 98% hair reduction not permanent hair removal due to the hair cycles and difference of technology. The energy is crucial for results so it would also depend on this. I would recommend having a complementary consultation with a professional prior to assess your skin type and hair colour to determine the best option for you to continue with. 
Wishing you all the best,
  
Stay absolutely safe and well,

Dr. Murray from Absolute Cosmetic Medicine

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  IPL treatment treats red vessels, hyperpigmentation and it improves the texture of your skin by producing collagen and elastin.  Laser hair removal is best performed with a diode, yag, and alexandrite laser.  Always consult with a physician to make sure you are a good candidate.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, you can have laser hair removal. Diode, Alexandrite and YAG lasers work best and most specific as compared to IPL, however, the newer generation IPLs such as Venus Versa do very well for hair removal as well and are safe on most skin types. It will take a series of treatments to get improvement. Please see an expert for an evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer."

Will the effect of the laser be decreased if I switch from laser to IPL for hair removal?

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Will the effect of the laser be decreased if I switch from laser to IPL for hair removal?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.