If and however you choose to remove hair, the process can be a nuisance. Many of us opt for short-term methods such as shaving or hair removal creams that leave us with our desired results for what feels like a few hours, after that you’re repeating the process again (and again!).

You may be looking for long-term hair removal solutions, which is likely if you’ve stumbled across here. Two of the most popular methods are Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser hair removal. While both treatments offer effective hair reduction, they have their own advantages and differences. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of IPL and laser hair removal, answer some commonly asked questions, and help you decide which method might be the best fit for you.

Technology: how is it different?

Both IPL and laser hair removal use light to target the hair follicle and prevent regrowth. However, the technology they use is different.

What is IPL Hair Removal?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a technology that uses broad-spectrum light to target the pigment in hair follicles. View how IPL hair removal works here.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light that targets the hair follicle directly.

IPL vs Laser Hair Removal: Key similarities

Long-lasting hair removal: both IPL and laser hair removal give long-lasting results with maintenance treatments needed every now and then to maintain smooth skin.

Safe for body and face: both solutions are safe to use on the body and face to prevent hair regrowth.

IPL vs Laser Hair Removal: Key differences

Time it takes for a full body treatment: as laser hair removal uses single light to target each hair follicle, the time it takes for a full body treatment, or even larger treatments such as legs for example can take hours.

With at-home IPL hair removal you can complete a full body treatment in just 10 minutes.

Time it takes to see full results: due to the time needed between sessions, it can take up to 12 months to achieve long-lasting hair reduction.

A full regimen with at-home IPL hair removal takes just 12 weeks, with 1 weekly treatment per week. Visible results can be seen within 2 uses.

Cost: many laser hair removal salons charge per treatment area, meaning if you want multiple areas treated it can cost thousands of pounds.

The benefit of at-home IPL hair removal is that it’s a one-time investment. Giving you the freedom to treat as many, or little areas as you want. SmoothSkin IPL hair removal devices have unlimited flashes to last you a lifetime.

Why choose SmoothSkin IPL hair removal over laser hair removal?

1. Treat from the comfort of home: no salon appointments or invasive appointments
2. Save time: 10-minute treatment once a week
3. Save money: one-off cost from £149, saving thousands
4. Salon quality results from home: clinically proven to deliver up to 99% hair reduction
5. Award-winning IPL: winner of Best Hair Removal device in Cosmopolitan 2023 Holy Grail Beauty Awards and Good Housekeeping’s Best Hair Removal device in their Best Beauty Awards.

Answering your commonly asked questions about IPL hair removal

How effective is IPL hair removal?

IPL can be very effective for hair reduction. SmoothSkin has been clinically proven to reduce up to 99% of hair in 12 weeks. Click here to view our real user results.

Can IPL hair removal be used on the face?

Yes, many IPL devices are safe for facial use. However, it’s important to follow the device guidelines and avoid the eye area.

SmoothSkin devices are FDA cleared for use on the face. Click here to view our real user results for facial hair.

Is IPL hair removal permanent?

SmoothSkin devices will prevent hair regrowth as long as you keep treating it regularly. After the initial 12-week regime, you will need to do ‘top up’ treatments every 4-8 weeks depending on your hair growth rate. After 12 weeks, you could see up to 99% hair reduction. Remember that results may vary for different people.

Answering your questions about laser hair removal

How effective is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is highly effective and often preferred for its precision and faster results compared to IPL. It works best on individuals with light skin and dark hair.

Can laser hair removal be used on all skin types?

Newer laser technologies have made it possible to treat a wider range of skin tones. However, those with darker skin should seek treatments specifically designed for their skin type to avoid potential side effects.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction. While some hair may eventually regrow, it will be finer and lighter. Maintenance sessions may be needed.

Conclusion

Both IPL and laser hair removal are excellent choices for long-term hair reduction. At-home IPL hair removal can give similar results to the salon, whilst saving you time and money in the long-run. Click here to view our user results and testimonials from people who have tried (and love!) SmoothSkin.