Which IPL Laser Should I Use?

Question

Basically I have thick coarse hair that I would like not to remove but make grow finer. Which setting or wavelength should I use to prevent permanently damaging the follicle but instead shrink the follicle to make it smaller?

Lorrie Klein, MD · Answer

IPL is not the best device for removing hair.  It's great for improving red and brown discolorations but fair to mediocre when removing hair for long lasting results. Many med spas and medical offices that only have 1-3 lasers/devices will use them for whatever they can do.  But just because it can do something doesn't mean it can do it well.  IPL is one of those "jack of all trade" devices that can be used for many things, but don't do many of them well.  In my opinion, the best devices for removing hair are alexandrite lasers (such as GentleLase) and diode lasers (such as LightSheer).

	It sounds as if you work in a med spa with no doctor to ask (or your doctor doesn't know) this question to.  If you have to ask this forum what wave length to use then you shouldn't be treating patients or yourself.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

IPL is a light-based device, not a laser, and is less effective and less safe than a true laser such as the lightsheer duet for permanent hair removal. They are widely available in spas & salons, but few credible physicians such as dermatologists would use this for permanent hair removal - that should say something. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

Kimberly Finder, MD · Answer

IPL is not a good device for hair reduction. It's an excellent device for reduction of reds and browns and some texture improvement.

	Lasers such as an alexandrite or Nd:YAG are much better choices for hair reduction, depending on your skin color. It is possible to convert coarse hair to finer hair with these lasers, if done by a knowledgeable practitioner. Hair removal requires multiple sessions. In the beginning coarse hair will typically become finer, rather than being completely destroyed. A skilled laser hair removal practitioner/center can discuss this with you. It's not possible in this forum to give specific settings. Seek an experienced practitioner/center to discuss your needs with you.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I firmly agree with Dr. Klein. Whatever you are doing, please stop. IPL is not a great hair removal device to begin with, as it's slow and painful. But in no way can any of us tell you what settings to use with a device like this. Settings need to be set specifically for skin type and care. Additionally, there is absolutely no setting to "shrink follicles". That doesn't exist.

Which IPL Laser Should I Use?

Answers (4)