Compare IPL to Laser for Permanent Hair ReductionWhy IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) not Laser?The fundamental difference between Intense Pulsed Light systems and Laser are essentially the speed and treatment size at which light therapy can be delivered and, the wavelength of light produced. Unlike laser, IPL device heads can be up to 8 times larger thus allowing a larger treatment zone to be addressed at the one time and, the delivery time of energy to tissue is faster so on the whole allowing a faster treatment. In addition the other fundamental difference is the wavelength of light produced. Lasers produce light with one specific wavelength whilst IPL uses and entire waveband. Essentially different wavelengths penetrate the skin to different depths so utilising IPL can be compared to using a group of lasers in a single treatment. Which device?An abundance of IPL devices litter the paramedical and cosmetic medical division. Efficacy of treatment results rest solely in the experience of the therapist and the technology of the device. It is imperative that when selecting a clinic, the operator is skilled and the machine has met the required safety standards. Test patching and adequate skin analysis is essential or patients risk blistering, burning, scarring or hyper/hypopigmentation (darkening or lightening of the skin) when the hands of an inexperienced clinician. The Epilight is an Intense Pulsed Light device used to address a variety of cosmetic concerns. Treatment indications include eliminating age spots, sun spots, freckles, skin discolorations, superficial capillaries, port wine stains and other benign vascular lesions. It is also particularly effective treating a high percentage of people with Rosacea and permanent hair reduction. Unlike numerous other devices on the market, the Epilight has been tested for safety and performance by accredited, independent testing facilities. Minimal discomfort is experienced with the Epilight. Unlike other IPL devices, treatment parameters allow the clinician flexibility to deliver varied levels of energy to meet patients comfort. In addition, topical anaesthetic can be applied 10 minutes before a procedure to reduce discomfort completely. It is imperative the correct settings and levels of energy are established before commencing a treatment and therefor test patching remains a necessity. This enables the clinician to deliver optimum results and provide a scientific analysis of the skin. Who can have IPL TreatmentGiven the IPL hair removal process can be calibrated to work with different light colours and frequency the best possible treatment can be administered according to the characteristics of the patient’s skin. This means that people with dark skin and/or light hair can be treated with reasonably satisfactory results. The approach with darker skin types is always conservative and test patching essential but nevertheless achievable with the Epilight. Generally, there are fewer risks associated with IPL hair removal than other methods depilation, including lasers . An experienced therapist should always avoid treating pregnant or lactating women and patients suffering from epilepsy or light induced skin disorders. Who shouldn't have IPL treatment
What are the Risks?Generally there are fewer risks associated with IPL hair removal than with other methods of depilation, including lasers, waxing and plucking provided the equipment is operated by an experienced therapist. At the energy levels required for hair removal there virtually no risks if treating pale skins. When IPL is used on darker skins there can be a risk of hyper or hypo pigmentation, for this reason the darker skin is always tested for sensitivity. |
