Laser Hair Removal.
How do IPLs work?
Intense Pulsed Light systems use a beam of traditional light of many different wavelengths to burn the hair shaft, hopefully damaging the follicle to prevent immediate re-growth of the shaft that was removed. The big word for it is photothermolysis – ‘light heat breakdown’.
How does laser hair removal work?
If IPLs work by photothermolysis, laser hair removal works by selective photothermolysis … and that single word makes a world of difference! You don’t want to cause ‘light heat breakdown’ in the cells of your skin, you want to selectively target the hair cells and follicles. The use of a particular wavelength of light in laser hair removal is what allows that selectivity, creating a heat injury to the hair, but not the surrounding skin.
How can I tell the difference between IPL and laser hair removal?
The easiest and most direct way to tell the difference between the two treatments is to ask the provider. You can also check for:
Mention of specific wavelengths of light (measured in nm) in the description of the service
Mention of types of machine including an Argon laser, Ruby laser, Alexandrite laser, Pulsed Diode Array, or an Nd:YAG laser indicate that you are purchasing true laser hair removal.
Pricing. IPL treatments are much cheaper than laser treatments, mostly because the equipment is far cheaper and have alot higher risk of side effects and unsatisfactory treatments results compared to laser. However any equipment in the wrong hands can be very dangerous with an inexperienced operator.
The Dangers of IPL
At best, IPL will create some reduction in hair growth in the long term. At worst, though, it causes severe burns, hypo-pigmentation, blistering and scarring. It’s a lesson that some people have to learn for the rest of their lives, unfortunately.
Many IPL injuries go unreported, with people feeling that they should have known better. It is very important to know the difference between laser and IPL before starting your treatments.
What machines do we use?
CoolGlide systems are by far the more superior laser hair removal systems on the market for all skin tones, from light to dark, including tanned patients.
This unique design, longer wavelength and innovative cooling allows for extremely effective, safe and permanent results.
How do CoolGlide lasers compare with other hair removal methods?
Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams are all temporary methods which must be repeated on a frequent basis. The CoolGlide laser offers permanent hair reduction for lasting results.
Why choose CoolGlide lasers over other laser hair removal systems?
Using the latest technology in laser hair removal, CoolGlide laser systems can treat large areas without the limitations of older technologies.
The CoolGlide systems longer wavelength allows it to be used safely and effectively on patients with all skin types as well as tanned skin. Unlike other systems CoolGlide lasers can treat the fine hair on a woman’s upper lip just as easily and effectively as the coarse hair on a mans back. The cooled hand-piece increases patient comfort and minimises the adverse skin reactions commonly seen with other hair removal systems.
For permanent hair reduction, Cutera has created a long-pulse 1064 nm laser that represents several clinical firsts.
The 1064 nm Nd:YAG Advantage:
First laser FDA approved for permanent hair reduction on all skin types, including tanned skin
First for treatment of pseudofolliculitis barbae, year-round
Specifically for laser hair removal
Minimal side effects unlike other systems
For more information on the CoolGlide Laser please don’t hesitate to ask.