IPL Hair Removal: 5 Myths Debunked & What They Don't Tell You

5 min read

• IPL hair removal offers hair reduction (not permanent removal) and differs from laser treatments, using broad spectrum light that works best with high contrast between hair and skin color.

• Despite marketing claims, IPL treatments cause some discomfort ("good pain" like a rubber band snap), can't be used on certain body areas (eyes, tattoos, genitals, mucous membranes), and require maintenance sessions.

• Effective IPL results depend on having the right skin/hair combination, with devices that include proper cooling technology to prevent burns and skin damage.

Are you considering IPL hair removal, but hesitant to make a leap of faith on something you know so little about? What if it doesn’t live up to your expectations? 

You’ve likely heard bold promises — painless, permanent, and perfect skin. But before you invest in that device, there are some things you should know. The truth is, many of the claims aren’t entirely accurate. Save yourself time, money, and disappointment by understanding the full picture.

In this post, we’re exposing the top 5 myths about IPL hair removal. From results, to pain, and where you can treat yourself, we’ll clear up the confusion so you can make an informed buying decision.

Myth 1: IPL Hair Removal Is Permanent

Okay, so this one isn’t exactly a myth, but it’s not true either.

Permanent hair removal isn’t guaranteed with IPL. Be wary of companies that promise this! (We won’t name any names). IPL is designed to significantly reduce hair growth over time. In other words, IPL is more accurately described as permanent hair reduction.

To get to the root of this myth, we put on our research hats and got to work. Here’s what we found:

Why it’s not permanent: IPL targets hair in the growth (anagen) phase. At any given time, about 20% of your follicles are in this phase. At lower levels of power (such as those found in home IPL devices), the cells switch to the telogen phase. This is the dormant phase where no new hair is produced. In this case, if you don’t keep up with your IPL treatments your root cell will come out of this dormant state and start producing hair again.

In rare cases, IPL treatments can destroy the hair follicle. This is why some people report permanent, or partially permanent hair removal.

Our advice: You’ll need maintenance treatments (about 1 month apart) after the bulk of your hair has stopped growing. At this stage you’ll notice your hair grows thinner and finer too.

Myth 2: IPL and Laser Hair Removal Are the Same

Again, be on the lookout for slimy marketing tactics here. Some companies will advertise an IPL device as an “IPL laser hair removal device”. There’s just one tiny problem here. “IPL” and “laser” are two entirely different technologies!

IPL uses broad spectrum light to fry your follicles. This wide range of wavelengths scatter along your skin and aren’t as focused. Laser-grade technology uses a single, focused wavelength. A few other points to note:

• Effective area: IPL covers a larger area per flash, so sessions can be faster than lasering.

• Price: IPL is generally less expensive but requires more sessions.

• Consistency: IPL needs more touch up sessions than laser since less hair follicles get destroyed.

Using the word “laser” to market an IPL device misrepresents the technology. Yes, there are home laser devices on the market. But do your research and know exactly what you’re paying for.

Myth 3: Is IPL Painful or Painless? (How to Differentiate Between ”Good” & ”Bad” Pain)

TL;DR pain during an IPL treatment is inevitable. It’s a sign the device is working. But there’s good pain and bad pain. So when companies say a device is “pain free” they’re referring to the bad pain. Here’s how each one feels like:

Good Pain: The device lets out a flash of light that gets converted to heat. This should feel like the gentle snap of a rubber band on your skin. The heat energy targets the melanin in your hair follicle.

Bad Pain: You’ll get burned by the device’s window if it lacks cooling technology. Simply put, the best cooling technology on the market is sapphire cooling. Sapphire has excellent thermal conductivity, which helps dissipate heat generated during your treatment.

Myth 4: IPL Can Be Used Anywhere on Your Body

Read your device manual and steer clear of “no-go” zones. Flashing here can cause “bad pain” among other side effects. Here’s a list of no-go zones:

1. Around the Eyes: IPL flashes are intense and can damage your eyes, even from a distance. Always wear the safety glasses provided. If you’re treating an area close to the eyes such as your cheeks, take caution. Many IPL devices advise against this.

2. On Tattoos: IPL targets pigment in the skin, and tattoos have a high amount of pigment. Using IPL on tattooed areas can cause a breakdown of the ink and damage your skin.

3. Genitals: More specifically, the scrotum and the labia. These areas can get easily irritated by IPL light.

4. Mucous Membranes: Lips, nostrils, etc. This tissue is sensitive and thin. Avoid IPL in these areas.

5. Broken or Sunburned Skin: Let the skin heal first. Using IPL on damaged skin can lead to further irritation and delay healing.

6. Varicose Veins or Vascular Lesions: Using IPL on areas with visible veins or vascular lesions can worsen the condition. There’s a risk of causing further inflammation or potentially rupturing blood vessels.

Myth 5: IPL Is Safe for All Hair and Skin Tones

IPL targets melanin in your hair follicles. Your hair needs to be significantly darker than your skin to absorb the light emitted by your device.

However, the light can also be absorbed by the melanin in your skin. This is because IPL uses broad spectrum light. It’s a problem because your skin can experience burns, hyperpigmentation, and scarring.

On the other end of the spectrum are those with light hair. Light hair doesn’t have enough pigment — so IPL has nothing to target. This means treatments won’t work. Check the table below to determine if your skin and hair combination fits the bill for IPL.

The Last Hair-rah

Clearing the noise and understanding IPL myths is crucial before making an investment. To recap — IPL isn’t a permanent solution, you’ll need upkeep treatments. It’s also not the same as laser hair removal. Getting accustomed to the pain is a natural part of the process. But be aware of poorly constructed devices that’ll burn you. Also, make sure IPL is right for your skin and hair. Most vendors have a 90-day risk free guarantee. So if you’re unsure you can buy the device and test it out.

But wait, there’s more!

Beyond these 5 myths, we advise you to do a bit more research before committing to a purchase. More specifically, educate yourself on realistic results. What do they look like? And when can you expect them?

If you already know what you’re in for, then what’s the wait? The only thing separating you from flawless, hairless skin is an IPL device in your hands! We’re confident we’ve given you the best info on making an informed decision about whether IPL is for you or not.

And as always — don’t fall for the hype. Stay educated and aware as a consumer.