Smooth, hair-free skin has always been the sought-after beauty goal. Remember the days of painstakingly plucking every strand of hair or enduring the sting of hot wax? Thankfully, the quest for effortless hair removal led to several advancements over the years, with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) being no exception.
But as much as its popularity has grown over the years, particularly with at-home IPL hair removal devices, it’s not without its drawbacks.
Here we discuss the potential side effects and limitations of at-home IPL laser hair removal devices. Let’s dive in.
Common Side Effects of IPL
IPL is generally considered safe, but there are some common side effects to watch out for:
1. Redness and swelling: The heat from the IPL can cause your skin to look a little flushed and feel slightly swollen. It's usually nothing to worry about and tends to fade within a few hours or days.
2. Tingling or warm sensation: Some people report a tingling or warm sensation right after an IPL session.
3. A bit of a sting: IPL may cause a slight stinging sensation in some cases, like a rubber band snapping against the skin. It’s usually more noticeable in areas with sensitive skin.
Serious Side Effects of IPL
Common side effects are usually no big deal, but there are reports of a few rarer, but more serious risks associated with at-home IPL treatment devices you should be aware of:
4. Burns and scarring: These side effects are uncommon but there have been published accounts of superficial and partial thickness burns due to an IPL device.
5. Changes in skin colour: IPL can sometimes lead to skin discolouration. This is more likely to happen for those with darker skin tone, or under sun exposure.
6. Eye injury: This is a major one. Another serious side effect, while not directly due to the use of IPL, but rather through operational error is eye injury. The light can penetrate the eye and potentially harm the cornea, retina, or other delicate structures. It can lead to pain, vision problems, and in severe cases, permanent damage.
Why You Might Be More Prone to IPL Side Effects
Anyone can experience side effects from IPL, but certain factors can make you more susceptible:
- Skin tone: Your skin is more abundant in melanin if you have a darker complexion (Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI). This pigment can absorb more laser energy which can increase the likelihood of burns and pigmentation changes.
- Sun exposure: Recent tanning, either from the sun or a tanning bed makes your skin more sensitive to side effects.
- Medications: Medications like antibiotics or acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to light, which can increase the risk of reactions.
- Skin conditions: If you have a history of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or keloids, you might be prone to skin irritation. These conditions often involve a compromised skin barrier which can make the skin more reactive to external heat and light stimuli from the IPL device.
Professional Laser Hair Removal: A Safer, More Effective Alternative
While at-home IPL devices might seem tempting, and many users have reported positive experiences, they often fall short of achieving comprehensive and long-lasting hair removal.
Additionally, IPL technology tends to work best for individuals with dark hair and lighter skin tones, leaving those with fairer hair (blonde, grey, or red) or darker skin with less effective results.
Professional laser hair removal, on the other hand, offers a solution for everyone. At Laser Clinics New Zealand, we use medical-grade laser technology which caters to a wide range of skin and hair types.
Our experienced Laser Therapists understand the nuances of different skin and hair types, ensuring your treatment is tailored for optimal results with minimal risk. We prioritise your safety and comfort, offering a personalised approach that addresses your specific concerns and goals.
Don’t Risk It: Choose Professional Laser Hair Removal From Laser Clinics New Zealand
Don’t settle for less when it comes to your skin’s safety and satisfaction.
Laser Clinics New Zealand offers professional Laser Hair Removal Treatments at our lowest prices ever, and we’ll even match any competitor’s price.
Our advanced technology and expert care from professional Laser Therapists ensure a safe, effective, and comfortable experience tailored to your unique needs.
Say goodbye to the uncertainty of at-home IPL devices. Embrace the confidence of smooth-hair-free skin with professional treatments at Laser Clinics New Zealand. Book your complimentary consultation today.
