Black specks of dots after IPL, they've been there for weeks and I'm not sure what to do?

Question

I did IPL by myself with a Braun handheld device. After a few times these black specks appear and I've read about it online but they don't flake off ? When I use tweezers to pull them out they are short stubbles of black hair . My aunt says I have to pluck them all or 3-4 more hair will grow from that one pore in the future. I'm not sure because if I pluck them out , since it's the burnt hair, won't the hair grow out and the IPL will be a waste ( I've read online to not wax the hair after IPL)

Georges Kaado, MD · Answer

Hello,  I would suggest using a washcloth and gently exfoliate the area.  It might help vs. plucking.  I've always recommended to my clients that 3 days post treatment of laser hair removal to gently exfoliate the area.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question, but you will be better off saving your money.  Real LHR devices can be extremely dangerous in the wrong hands, but need the power to be effective.  Since no one is home supervising you, home use devices have only a fraction of the power of medical grade lasers.  What is stopping you from using the "device" every day?  If it was doing anything, you would need to wear eye protection.  If you are blindfolded, how would you aim it?Save your money.  Do some research on your local professionals.  Find out who has the best equipment and experience.  Get on their e-mail list and watch for LHR specials.  We regularly package multiple LHR areas together at significant savings.

David Jensen, DO · Answer

The hair was singed from the heat of the IPL, that is probably what you are seeing. Tweezing hairs does not cause anymore hair to be produced. Do not tweeze the hair it could disrupt the hair follicle causing it to regrow hair instead of being disabled. The hair will be discharged from it's follicle on it's own, the hair cycle on a body is typically 4-6 weeks.

Black specks of dots after IPL, they've been there for weeks and I'm not sure what to do?

Answers (3)

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Black specks of dots after IPL, they've been there for weeks and I'm not sure what to do?

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.