The main difference between laser and IPL for hair reduction purposes is in the technology that each uses to generate light. IPL, also known as Intense Pulsed Light technology uses a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths (colours). Laser technology is monochromatic (one wavelength) and is focused into a concentrated beam.

Both laser and IPL provide the correct wavelength of light that targets the structure of melanin (pigment) in hair and disables hair from growing.

During your free consultation your Beauty Therapist will assess your Fitzpatrick Skin Type (hair colour, eye colour, skin colour and reaction to the sun) to determine whether you will achieve a better result from laser or IPL treatment.

4 weeks prior:

• For people who are used to constantly shaving the area that they are treating with laser or IPL, a wax 3-4 weeks prior to their first laser treatment is recommended. This is to ensure the hairs coming through at your first treatment are in the ‘active’ growth phase and will be effectively treated. This step is optional, but guarantees a good result.
• Avoid sun tanning.

3 weeks prior:

• Avoid waxing, tweezing or bleaching the area. If there are any unwanted hairs before your treatment, you can shave.

The day before:

• Thoroughly shave the area. Both laser and IPL require hair in the follicle, but not over the surface of the skin.
• If you have used fake tan, ensure it is thoroughly removed in the area to be treated.

The day of:

• Do not apply perfumes, deodorants, fake tan, body lotion or any potential irritants on the area being treated.

After your treatment:

• Expect your skin to be sensitive and a little red. This is because treated follicles have been heated and the area may be inflamed for up to 3 days.
• You can also use a covered, cold compress to help reduce swelling if present. This is normal and expected.
• After showering only pat dry your treated areas and do not rub to avoid excess irritation.
• Wear clothing and sunscreen to protect your treated areas from direct sun exposure. Be sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. This is very important for your skin’s health and to ensure the success of your remaining treatments. We recommend Dalton Sun Care sunscreen UVA/UBA Protection Cream SPF 50+ (link) due to its light, non-greasy texture, and active moisturising ingredients including Spirulina and Vitamin E.
• Once your skin is no longer sensitive, you may notice some hair growth coming through. This is not new growth, but rather your skin shedding the hairs which were in the follicle during your treatment.
• 1 week after your treatment, lightly exfoliate with a loofah mitt (do not use any chemical exfoliation). You will notice the ‘dead’ hairs, which were treated in your session begin to fall out of the follicle. This is a great result from your laser or IPL treatment.

We recommend using a soothing lotion, such as Laser and IPL Gel if your skin feels irritated or itchy in the immediate days after treatment.

Our Laser and IPL gel has been created to soothe and comfort skin irritations particularly after certain cosmetic procedures. The active ingredient in Laser and IPL gel is Centella Asiatica – a natural plant extract renowned for its immediate soothing, cooling and anti-inflammatory effect. This is the perfect solution after your laser hair removal treatments.