There are many long-term hair removal options out there that use light-based hair removal methods.  

Still, most of us spend a lot of time and money on threading and waxing.

We go through this pain every month to remove hair from our bodies.

Why do we keep doing this? Why don’t we try a technology that can free us from this monthly hair removal hassle and cost?

It's often because of a lack of knowledge, trust, and doubts about technology hold us back from trying light-based long-term hair reduction options.

So, you have come across two hair reduction treatments: Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Hair Removal. Right? But you are confused about which one is more effective.

And might be constantly thinking, “What if it doesn’t suit my skin? What if it damages my skin?”

But don’t worry!

If you want to make the right decision between these treatments with confidence, we’ve prepared a comparison guide so you can choose one and enjoy a long-term hair removal solution. 

How Do Laser and IPL Hair Reduction Work?

• Laser Hair Removal  

Laser hair removal is a method called selective photothermolysis (SPTL). It uses specific wavelengths of light matched with pulse duration to target hair. The main target here is the melanin in the hair follicle. Melanin is the pigment in the hair that gives color to our skin and hair.

The laser light focuses directly on the hair follicle rather than surrounding it, allowing it to be absorbed only by the hair follicle. This keeps the surrounding skin safe and comfortable.

As the laser targets the melanin, it destroys the hair root. So it cannot produce hair back and delay hair growth.

Over multiple treatment sessions, laser energy heat gradually weakens and permanently disables the hair follicle. As a result, patients experience long-term hair reduction.

Studies show that about 90-95% of patients who undergo laser hair removal are fully satisfied with the results.

• Intense Pulsed Light Hair Removal

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology is different from laser treatment. IPL uses a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths. This means it has more unfocused light energy around the skin and hair.

The light from IPL is similar to a camera flash. It spreads over a large area. This is very different from the focused beam of light used in laser hair removal.

Around 60% of patients reported satisfaction after undergoing IPL treatments.

What Is the Key Difference Between IPL And Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Both IPL and laser hair removal use light to effectively remove unwanted hair. However, they differ in technology and results. Let’s explore these two hair removal treatments in detail so you can decide which one suits you best: laser or IPL hair removal.

1. The technology

The main difference between laser and IPL devices is the type of light used.

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• Laser machines use a specific type of light wavelength that is targeted and concentrated. This means the wavelength of light goes in one direction to create strong and effective light.

• IPL machines use a wide range of wavelengths to create a single flash of light, similar to a camera flash. This covers a larger area but decreases the treatment's power and leads to less effective results.

• Dermatologist’s Assessment of Both Options:

IPL: Not as strong and less intense technology 

LASER: More powerful and intense technology

2. Effectiveness and Results

• Laser Hair Removal: This method can reduce hair by up to 95%. The results depend on several factors, such as the hair growth cycle, hormonal changes, and the colors of the skin and hair.

• IPL Hair Removal: This method can reduce hair by up to 78% at the one-month follow-up and maintain a 72% reduction at the three-month follow-up. The results usually last for about 6 months to 1 year but can be extended to 1.5 years with repeated touch-ups every 3 months.

• Dermatologist’s Assessment of Both Options:

IPL: Less effective with lower hair reduction

LASER: More effective with higher hair reduction

3. Hair Follicle Targeting Differences

The way IPL and laser treatments target hair follicles is different.

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• Laser: The laser focuses on individual hair follicles. It uses a specific wavelength of light that goes directly to the follicle. This makes it very effective at destroying the hair root, leading to long-lasting results.

• IPL: IPL treatments cover a larger area but are less precise. The broad spectrum of light may not always reach the hair follicles effectively. This can lead to less consistent results and might require more sessions to achieve the desired outcome.

• Dermatologist’s assessment of both options:

IPL: Covers more area but less precise targeting 

LASER: Targets individual follicles effectively and accurately

4. Different Skin and Hair Types

The Fitzpatrick scale categorizes skin types according to how they respond to UV exposure.

 

Fitzpatrick Scale	Skin and Hair type
Very fair skin	This skin type never tans and usually has blonde or red hair.
Fair skin	This skin type is relatively fair and can have blonde or light brown hair.
Medium skin	This skin can tan in the sun and often has darker hair.
Brown skin	This skin rarely burns and usually has dark brown hair.
Dark brown skin	This skin never burns and often has black hair.
Darkest skin	This skin type never burns and usually has black hair.

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• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Hair Removal:

• Suitable for skin types I-IV:

IPL is generally effective for lighter skin tones and darker hair. It targets the melanin in the hair follicles.

• Less effective for skin types V-VI

Darker skin tones can have more melanin, which can make it difficult for IPL to accurately target the hair follicles without affecting the surrounding skin tissues.

• Laser Hair Removal:

• Suitable for all skin types:

Laser hair removal can be effective for a wider range of skin tones, including darker skin types. Modern lasers can be adjusted to target specific wavelengths of light, reducing the risk of damage to the skin.

• More effective for skin types V-VI:

For darker skin tones, laser hair removal is often more effective than IPL. It can be adjusted to focus on the hair follicles without causing too much pigmentation.

Note: A dermatologist can provide a tailored assessment based on your individual hair reduction needs and help you determine the most suitable and best permanent hair removal option.  

5. Comfort and Pain Levels

• IPL: Many people find IPL treatments less painful. The broad light used in IPL can feel more like a warm sensation rather than a sharp sting. This makes it a comfortable choice for those who are sensitive to pain.

• LASER: Laser hair removal can be more painful than IPL because it uses focused light that targets specific hair follicles. Patients may feel a sharp sensation. However, some laser machines come with cooling features to help reduce discomfort during the treatment.

• Dermatologist’s assessment of both options:

IPL: Generally more comfortable and less painful.

LASER: Can be more intense and painful.

6. Safety on skin

• IPL: IPL is generally safer, but it does not target hair follicles directly. It uses a broad spectrum of light that can be absorbed by different skin pigments, which might affect surrounding skin tissue. This can lead to some skin damage.

• Laser Hair Removal: Laser hair removal uses a stronger beam of light that specifically targets the hair follicles. It does not harm the surrounding skin tissue, making it a safer choice for skin health.

• Dermatologist’s assessment of both options:

 IPL: The skin is more exposed during treatment

Laser: The skin is less exposed and better protected

7. Treatment Time and Number of sessions

• IPL:

IPL sessions last about 10 to 15 minutes per session to reduce heat stress on the skin.

After 2 sessions, you can expect a hair reduction of 10% to 39.16%.

After 3 sessions spaced 6 weeks apart, studies show hair reductions of 46.4%, 50%, and 74.53% in the treated areas.

• Laser:

Laser sessions last between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours for safety and the best results.

After 2 sessions, a 40% reduction in hair can be expected.

After 3 sessions, you can see hair reductions of 58.4%, 67.6%, to 75%.

After 4 sessions, up to 87% reduction is possible.

After 6 sessions, laser hair removal works best on large pigmented hairs, leading to a reduction of 69% to 90%.

• Dermatologist’s assessment of both options:

IPL: Sessions are quicker, but results take longer to show

LASER: Sessions are longer, but results appear more quickly

8. Cost

• IPL: IPL treatments are generally less expensive than laser treatments. However, since IPL is less effective, you might need more sessions to see the same results as laser hair removal.

• Laser: Laser treatments usually cost more because they use advanced technology. The higher cost reflects its stronger technology and more effective results. Many people say that the results of professional laser treatment are worth the extra cost.

Still Confused About Which Hair Removal Treatment is Best for You?

Laser technology is a much more effective hair removal treatment than IPL.

However, YOUR choice of permanent hair removal method should depend on what works for YOU.

So, get a consultation with an experienced dermatologist to discuss what you've learned here. 

They can guide you on which hair reduction treatment will meet your hair reduction goals. 

At Midas Touch, we offer professional laser hair reduction treatment in Ahmedabad using advanced technology.

Our machine effectively removes all hair types, including thick, medium, and fine hair. This US FDA-approved machine is almost unavailable elsewhere in Gujarat.

Ditch the pain of traditional hair removal methods!

Invest in effective laser hair removal with Midas Touch today and save money on frequent trips to the salon while enjoying smooth skin!