Laser Hair Removal – understanding system differences and efficacy
IPL vs Laser Hair Removal
*With both IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and laser hair removal there is high potential that unwanted hairs can be kept away for a long time. The two methods are somewhat comparable, though there is at least one clear difference: Laser hair removal uses a real laser while IPL does not. As the name suggests, IPL uses a light based device instead in order to destroy the hair follicles.
*Many clinics offer IPL laser hair removal, but it is not as effective for hair removal as the laser technology available. Alexandrite laser hair removal devices (755 nm) are recognized globally as being one of the most efficient devices for hair elimination. The Candela Alexandrite laser is especially effective due to its inbuilt cooling equipment. This cooling equipment allows the laser be used safely on darker skin complexions in addition to Caucasian skin types. After a decade of researching the effect of IPL devices, it is now known that sifted IPL is not as accurate as the laser in terms of hair removal.There are numerous studies that all point to the same conclusion regarding the Laser vs. IPL debate: IPL is not as efficient as laser hair removal.
Differences
*The difference between true laser technology and IPL systems is in the wavelength and the IPL results. IPL laser hair removal uses an array of different light wavelengths. Only some of these wavelengths will be ideal for hair removal, but some will not. So while IPL laser may be cheaper per session, *the IPL results are typically not as good because a percentage of your treatment will be ineffective, leading to more treatments and cost in the long term.
*Unlike the IPL laser, technology like the Alexandrite laser uses a single, precise wavelength, to target the melanin the hair follicle exactly, so there is no ‘hit and miss’. *This exact wavelength leads to a more effective treatment than IPL hair removal and therefore fewer treatments in the long term.
*It is also worth noting that for truly the most effective laser hair removal, you may need one or two sessions annually to maintain your results. *But when you compare this to daily waxing, plucking and shaving, not to mention treatment for ingrown hairs, laser hair removal is the clear winner both for effectiveness and price. Only doctors can buy Alexandrite lasers; anyone can buy IPL.
Conclusion
At Rock Creek Wellness, we use the gold standard in laser hair removal. *The Candela Alexandrite GentleLASE Pro is a medical grade world leader in safe, fast and effective hair removal. The GentleLASE has a patented built in cooling device to maximize patient comfort during treatment. *So if you are thinking about permanent hair removal, stick with the laser: it is a far more effective form of hair removal. Visit Rock Creek Wellness for the most advanced laser technology available in the world today!
*Individual results may vary.