Regularly removing body hair can quickly become a chore and often leaves people wondering how to remove hair permanently. Thankfully, modern innovations in hair removal mean that shaving is just one option at your disposal.
Intense pulsed light (IPL), laser treatments and electrolysis are all time-saving options for hair removal for women that you can choose from based on your needs. Taking a less painful approach than waxing and more traditional methods of hair removal for women, each method of permanent hair removal has its own advantages and drawbacks to be aware of.
IPL Hair Removal
What is IPL hair removal?
Unlike the other methods in this comparison, IPL devices are a solution for long-lasting hair removal that you can use in the comfort of your own home. Using a broad-spectrum light, IPL machines reduce your hair growth by targeting hair follicles at their root.
This targeted process prevents regrowth of hair over time making it a more permanent visible hair removal method than shaving.
How do I use IPL?
Using an IPL device lets you target any exact area you desire. Start by placing the device directly against your skin, press the button and the Silk-Expert Pro will start reducing visible hair. Gliding mode also lets you move more easily over larger areas.
While IPL slows the regrowth of hair, it is not an overnight fix. Once you know how to use IPL hair removal devices, treatments are suggested every week for 4-12 weeks. After this initial stage, you can use IPL every 1-2 months based on the speed of hair growth.
One thing to be aware of is that this hair removal method works best on dark hair and may not have effective results on fair hair.
Prepping for IPL
Before applying these gentle pulses of light to your body hair, you are advised to remove all visible hair from the area you’ll focus on. This allows the IPL machine to best target the hair at its root and prevents regrowth.
For more information, read our detailed piece on things to know before using an IPL.
How long does IPL last and what are its benefits?
With Braun IPL hair removal you can expect to see visible hair reduction after using it for 3 weeks. With every treatment, the Braun Silk Expert Pro IPL will deliver longer-lasting smoothness and hair that grows back is lighter and softer.
Laser Hair Removal
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a salon treatment that works similar to IPL by focusing on individual hair follicles. However, laser hair removal’s beam uses a single wavelength rather than broad-spectrum light. This means that laser can be more precise but can only be performed by a trained professional and can cause skin irritation if performed incorrectly.
Preparing for laser hair removal
If you book this salon treatment, you are likely to be advised on preparing for laser hair removal. Much like using an IPL device, you should remove all visible hair from the targeted area before your treatment. It is also advised that you avoid hair removal methods such as epilation or tweezing between sessions as the laser needs the root of the hair present to work effectively.
How long does laser hair removal last?
Laser treatments generally take around six to eight sessions spread over weekly appointments. After completing this course, you should expect 1 year of hair reduction though some people find they require touch-up treatments after a few years. Changing hormone levels can also trigger hair regrowth.
Comparing IPL and Laser
When weighing up IPL vs laser methods of hair removal, you should consider whether being able to remove hair in the comfort of your own home makes life easier for you. IPL at-home treatments can be more convenient but require more frequent sessions to start with.
Electrolysis Hair Removal
How does electrolysis work?
You may have heard of this final method of permanent hair removal and wondered how does electrolysis work? Unlike the first two methods, electrolysis does not use light to remove hair. Instead, electrolysis requires a dermatologist to insert an epilation device into the desired area for hair removal. By sending shortwave radio frequencies, electrolysis prevents hair follicles from developing.
Preparing for electrolysis hair removal
Unlike IPL and laser treatments, for electrolysis hair removal you should avoid shaving or epilating for at least a week. If you are having facial electrolysis, you will also want to remove any makeup before your treatment for the easiest access to pores. Electrolysis hair removal is also made easier if your skin is well hydrated so drink plenty of water beforehand.
How long does electrolysis last?
Each electrolysis session typically takes between 15 minutes and an hour and you will need a series of weekly sessions. Once this permanent hair removal method is complete, you should expect lasting hair-free skin in the treated area.
Comparing IPL and electrolysis
As with laser hair removal, booking multiple weekly treatments is a commitment of time and cost. Treating a larger area of your body like the bikini line may also suit IPL as the SensoAdapt technology of the Braun Silk-Expert Pro continuously scans your skin to find the perfect balance while moving over your skin.
Discover related products
Silk-expert Pro 5
Fast, Powerful & Gentle even on delicate skin.
Learn more
Silk-expert Pro 3
Fast & Gentle even on delicate skin.
Learn more
Silk-expert Mini
Compact, Convenient and Slim.
Learn more
Slider control
This could also be interesting for you:
Braun Silk-expert Pro IPL
The only IPL with an intelligentSensoAdapt™ skin tone sensor.
Learn more
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
I am an expert and enthusiast-based assistant. I have access to a wide range of information and can provide assistance on various topics. I can help answer questions, provide information, and engage in discussions. If you have any specific questions or topics you'd like to explore, feel free to ask!
Now, let's dive into the concepts mentioned in this article.
Hair Removal Methods:
The article discusses three methods of hair removal: IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), laser hair removal, and electrolysis. Each method has its own advantages and drawbacks. Let's explore each method in more detail.
IPL Hair Removal:
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It is a method of hair removal that can be used at home. IPL devices use broad-spectrum light to target hair follicles at their root, reducing hair growth over time. IPL is considered a more permanent method of hair removal compared to shaving. However, it is important to note that IPL works best on dark hair and may not be as effective on fair hair.
To use an IPL device, you need to place it directly against your skin and press the button. The device will emit pulses of light that reduce visible hair. IPL treatments are typically suggested every week for 4-12 weeks, and after the initial stage, treatments can be done every 1-2 months based on the speed of hair growth.
Laser Hair Removal:
Laser hair removal is a salon treatment that also targets hair follicles to reduce hair growth. Unlike IPL, laser hair removal uses a single wavelength of light. Laser treatments are more precise but should be performed by trained professionals to avoid skin irritation. Similar to IPL, laser hair removal requires multiple sessions, usually around six to eight sessions spread over weekly appointments. After completing the initial course, some people may require touch-up treatments after a few years due to changing hormone levels.
Electrolysis Hair Removal:
Electrolysis is another method of permanent hair removal. Unlike IPL and laser treatments, electrolysis does not use light. Instead, it involves a dermatologist inserting an epilation device into the desired area for hair removal. Electrolysis works by sending shortwave radio frequencies to prevent hair follicles from developing. Preparing for electrolysis involves avoiding shaving or epilating for at least a week before the treatment. Hydrating the skin by drinking plenty of water beforehand can also make the process easier.
Each electrolysis session typically takes between 15 minutes and an hour, and a series of weekly sessions are usually required. Once the sessions are complete, you can expect lasting hair-free skin in the treated area.
Comparing IPL, Laser, and Electrolysis:
When comparing these methods, there are a few factors to consider. IPL offers the convenience of at-home treatments but requires more frequent sessions initially. Laser hair removal and electrolysis are salon treatments that require multiple sessions and may be more suitable for larger areas of the body. The choice between these methods depends on individual preferences, convenience, and the desired outcome.
It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it's always a good idea to consult with a professional or dermatologist to determine the best hair removal method for your specific needs.
I hope this information helps! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.
