It is a non-laser flash lamp emitting a broad spectrum of light to target particular chromophores in the skin, in this case it is the melanin pigment of the hair & hair follicle which is responsible for our skin & hair colour. The light energy converts into heat which damages the hair follicles inhibiting hair growth over time.

It is a very effective way of reducing hair growth long term & important to follow the advice given on the number of treatments required for best results. The hairs growth cycle varies from client to client & is also dependent on the area chosen for hair removal & its cause of growth. Standard recommended visits are every 3-4 weeks for facial hair &4-6 weeks for body hair. The standard number of treatments are around 6-8 visits, but this can vary which is discussed during consultation. Maintenance or ‘top up’ visits for regrowth may be required once the initial course is completed. These can vary in frequency for each individual client & the area treated. Realistic expectations are discussed during the consultation.

Shaving. Other forms e.g., waxing, plucking & depilatory creams are not advisable due to pulling the hair out from the follicle.  No hair present means the melanin chromophore is not available to absorb the light energy, meaning ineffective treatment.

Depilatory creams can cause skin irritation &/or sensitivity which is unadvisable prior & post IPL treatment.

Most clients will feel a heat sensation, but each area varies on the body. Typically, the face especially the upper lip, under arms, bikini area/groin & back of the knee can have the most sensitivity but it varies from client to client.

A technology known as SHR/Super Hair Removal improves the comfort & experience of the hair removal as it has the ability to gradually heat the dermis to a therapeutic temperature that effectively damages the hair follicle but not surrounding tissue, keeping the surface of the skin cooler. It involves a sweeping technique across the skin multiple times effectively treating a larger area.

This method is preferred where possible on the body for client comfort & improves treatment results.

A clear cooling gel is applied to the skin prior to treatment improving the efficiency of the light energy into the skin & acts as a cooling barrier for client comfort.

Each area will vary in price. A small facial area eg between the brows is $25 per visit; a larger body area eg upper legs start from $80 per visit. Clinic deals on offer will over ride these amounts when applicable.

See treatment and pricing menu here

Generally, the hair colour needs to be darker than the skin colour. The lighter the skin tone, the darker the hair pigment the more effective the results. A darker skin tone has more melanin present so is at a higher risk of pigment changes in the skin when using an IPL device.

During the consultation the clients natural skin tone is determined where it sits on the ‘Fitzpatrick Scale’ by using a small device numbered I – V. This scale & its relevance in suitability for treatment is explained during the initial visit. A skin patch test is performed to assess the skin’s initial reaction, set parameters & client’s comfort.

It is advisable to wait 24-48 hours after the patch test before starting any treatment.

Under the age of 16 need parental consent.

Medications, ongoing illnesses & their treatments may affect a client’s suitability; therefore, it is important to gain accurate information during the consultation.

After the initial consultation visit of around 30 mins, the length of time each treatment takes is subject to the size of the area or areas if having more than one.

Small areas e.g., Upper lip or underarm take around 10 mins including prep time & aftercare.

Medium size areas e.g., Brazilian, or lower leg take around 20mins including prep time & aftercare.

Large size areas e.g., Full leg or back take around 40mins including prep time & aftercare.

Unless otherwise indicated by the clinic it is preferable to shave the day before to avoid minor skin irritation before the treatment.

The hair needs to be under the skin surface to avoid excessive heat on the upper layer of the skin.

If there are unshaved areas ‘missed’ by the client, treatment time will take longer as they will have to be shaved to make sure no hair is present.

To avoid potential risk & adverse reactions:

Photsensitising medications or medical conditions, St John’s Wort, suntanned skin due to increased melanin which can cause pigmentation changes, pregnancy due to hormonal changes, active dermatological conditions such as eczema, psoriasis & acne, broken skin, skin infections, skin prone to keloid scarring, pigmentation conditions, epilepsy, diabetes, (both conditions may be considered if controlled & managed well), active herpes virus, coronary conditions, permanent make up or tattoos in area (some can be covered & treatment can go ahead)

Hair growth-related problems / PCOS & hirsutism are conditions that can be treated but require realistic outcomes which will need to be discussed.

Allergic reactions to creams/gels need to be discussed.

Migraine headache history due to sensitivity of light &/or heat need to be discussed.