What is IPL?
By now you’ve probably heard the word ‘IPL’ thrown around in conversation. But do you know what it actually is? In the video above, all your questions will be answered, including exactly how IPL hair removal works and the safety of at-home devices. And just in case you can’t watch the vid right now, we’ve also included a bit of information below. You’ll be an expert before you know it!
What is IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and is used for long-term hair removal. You can get the treatment in-salon or do it at home with a device like the Philips Lumea Precision Plus. The device is safe, effective and cordless, so you can use it wherever you want.
How does IPL work?
Every time you press the button, the IPL device releases a lo- energy light pulse to the hair follicle. The hair absorbs the light, and then falls out naturally and painlessly.
How often do I need to use my IPL device?
There are four stages in a hair life cycle, and one of these is the ‘growth’ stage - which is perfect for IPL. But hair grows at different rates, meaning every hair reaches the growth stage at a different time. So, when you start IPL, you’ll need to use the device every two weeks to make sure you get every hair. After four sessions, you should have targeted most of the hairs, so you’ll only have to repeat every month or two - depending on your growth rate.
Is IPL safe?
It sure is. The Philips Lumea Precision Plus has a filter that protects your skin from harmful light. For more sensitive areas like your face and bikini line, there are extra attachments with specific filters.
Is it effective?
Yes, but it depends on your skin and hair colour. The key factor here is melanin (the pigment in your skin and hair). The more melanin in your skin and hair, the darker the colour.
How do I know if IPL is suitable for me?
IPL works best on people with light skin and dark hair. If you don’t fit that profile, it will still work for, but you may have to use it more frequently. The graph below will help to determine whether it's suitable for you.
Why only certain skin and hair colours?
The light of the IPL is absorbed by melanin, and you want IPL to target your hair, but not your skin, in order to get the best results.
Have you ever tried the Philips Lumea? Do you have any other questions about IPL?
91 Member Comments
I've done this on my armpits and whilst it stings just a little, it was the best decision ever. Highly recommend.
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I will be keen to see how the Phillips Lumia goes
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If you have the right skin tone and hair colour, IPL has an amazing result on hair removal. I invested on the in-salon treatment and it was costly, but the best money Ive ever spent! Would love to try the Philips Lumea!
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Sounds really good,but very expensive Any one checked the price ,it is $1299.95. I can't afford it ....
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Looks like this would be a good option for a lot of people.
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I've had IPL done at a beautification before but it wasn't overly effective. I've since had laser treatment and that works a treat!
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I've never used something like this but it seems like I fall into the right category :)
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The process sounds so similar to laser hair removal!
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I'd love to try an in home version of IPL
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love that I can do it at a home but could we win one
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My Portuguese friend did laser hair removal (brazilian) in the salon, for over 3 years no regrowth in that area, just couple of hairs...if this machine needs to be used every month or so, it is useless, epilator works for me the same way. and is safe and cheap
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Bit pricey, I will see how it goes with other "test subjects" before trying myself :)
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I would prefer laser to IPL.
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My friends swear by IPL
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I don't think it would work for me because I have loads of melanin in my skin and very light fair hair. I checked the table and I get a little 'x' which confirms my thoughts. Great for those who have the right skin and hair though.
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I would like to try IPL
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I would love to give it a go on myself!
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My sister bought the e-one. I've done two treatments so far and it's pretty good! I like how the Phillips Lumea is so small and wireless.
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Unfortunately I can never use it. Bit of a shame but sounds good for all the other ladies out there!
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She has a very pretty voice :) They looks like a great concept too
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I would love to try one of these.
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One of these is definitely on my Wishlist
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This seemed to work brilliantly at first but it didn't quite get all the hairs to stop growing and eventually I gave up
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Would really like to try this.
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I'd like to give this a go, as long as it isn't too expensive
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