What is photoepilation and how does it work?

There are many hair removal methods available today. It's true that the best method always depends on the individual and their hair type. So, there's nothing like trying different ones to find out. One of the most effective is called laser hair removal (or IPL).

This type of hair removal was invented in 1985, and its technique has been continuously refined, producing amazing results. The technique is becoming increasingly painless, and its side effects are becoming less frequent.

With this technique, we discovered that the emitted light beam is absorbed by the melanin, or natural pigment in hair, and is converted into heat. This burns the hair's germinal matrix, inhibiting future growth.

If you're not yet familiar with this term or everything it entails, don't miss what we're going to tell you today. We'll be talking about laser hair removal and all the questions it always raises. You'll finally discover its great advantages, as well as a few drawbacks. Are you ready?

What is photoepilation

Photodepilation is a hair removal technique that uses intense pulsed light (IPL). It's an advanced technology system that uses laser-like light to permanently, or in many cases, permanently, remove hair.

Hair removal is done using pulsed light energy that comes into contact with the melanin in the skin and is transformed into heat. This heat burns the hair, causing it to fall out and inhibiting future hair growth. However, this treatment requires several sessions.

The types of photoepilation

Within it, it can be carried out in two ways. Although logically the process is very similar. In both cases it is the light that is still used to depilate, although with certain variations in it.

She is: Gives off a more direct light, as well as uniform. Hence it can be said that the laser is more accurate. It also has a monochromatic light, which it is easier to be absorbed by melanin. Also within laser hair removal we must talk about different types of lasers. Each of them will be special for different skin types. It is ideal for fair skin with dark hairs.
Pulsed light: The pulsed light method is also known as IPL. In this case, the light has several colors and moves in different directions. Thus, the same device can be used for different types of hair. It is also responsible for progressively destroying hair. It is used for the darkest hair as the lightest. Although it is usually a slower treatment, so you will need more sessions.

How an IPL epilator works

Photodepilation works by applying bursts of a type of light, either IPL or laser. These methods are similar, directly targeting the hair root to weaken it and eliminate it permanently.

This type of hair removal is highly selective, and the energy and pulse frequency must be adjusted to the skin tone and hair type to be effective. Furthermore, if you have very dark skin or very light hair, this type of treatment is not effective. In other words, it doesn't work on very dark or black skin, nor on red, light blonde, or white/gray hair.

These IPL hair removal devices work just as well as the professional ones in hair removal salons. But you'll save a lot of time and money on salon sessions.

Basically, it works by emitting a beam of polychromatic light that heats the hair follicle. This destroys it and prevents it from growing back. These pulses reach the hair root through melanin, the pigment that gives hair and skin their color. That's why it doesn't work on all hair colors and types.

IPL hair removal devices emit light at different frequencies and wavelengths, unlike laser treatments. Lasers are monochromatic, a concentrated beam at a single wavelength. This is why IPL is somewhat less precise than laser hair removal, but in return, it's safer for your skin.

How to do photoepilation at home

This type of hair removal is used the same as in beauty centers. These same devices are for sale to the public and also work by emitting pulses of intense light.

What I need

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Basically, you don't need anything other than the IPL hair removal device itself . For some lamps, it's advisable to wear protective eyewear , as the light or laser could be harmful.

If you are using a wireless model, you should check that its battery is fully charged , so as not to have to interrupt the session.

If you want to define the areas you are going to wax, you can draw each area with a white pencil, so you can keep better track of the larger areas.

In addition , the skin must be clean and cool. The skin must be hair-free, but on this point, the hair should be shaved, not removed from the root. The treatment will not be effective if the hair is too long.

What to do before photoepilation

The best course of action is to read the instructions for the device you're going to use. Depending on the type of device, there will be guidelines regarding which areas are advisable to treat and the recommended exposure time.

It's important not to have been in the sun beforehand. As we've mentioned, your skin should be clean, without any blemishes or traces of cosmetics or creams. If you're going to shower or wash, make sure you dry yourself thoroughly and that your skin is cool.

The hair length should not exceed 1 mm, so the area must be completely shaved, i.e., depilated with a razor. It is important not to remove the hair from the root, as it needs to be present.

Some devices have a skin sensor, which is why a small test should be performed on the area before proceeding with permanent hair removal. This way, you can check the sensitivity and tolerance of that area.

Using an IPL hair removal device is very easy. But some questions always arise, or there are some tips that can be applied to improve the treatments and, above all, to ensure they are safe. For example:

Skin tone: The lighter your skin is, the more effective it will be. In dark or black skin the effectiveness of photoepilation may disappear. Therefore, you should not undergo tanning treatments beforehand.
Hair type: It is very effective on dark hair such as black, brown or dark blonde. It reduces its effectiveness as the tone becomes lighter. They are not effective on very light blondes, light redheads, or white hair. Also, unlike what you may think, fine and weak hair is more complicated to remove than thick hair.
Moles or warts: If you have this type of imperfections on your skin, you should avoid applying laser or pulsed light treatments on them. You can cover them if you want so they don't get damaged. Keep in mind that these areas have a greater load of pigment (melanin), which is used as an energy medium, so it can cause damage.
Whether or not to remove hair before treatment?: You can shave the area if you have a lot of hair, so you can press the epilator cap against the skin for it to be effective. If you have little hair it is not necessary. But what you should not do is apply a treatment that removes hair from the roots beforehand.
Where do I start?: You can start with the most sensitive areas such as the face, armpits and groin, and then apply the treatment to other areas such as legs and arms. The reason is that the epilator will heat up the longer you use it and it can bother the most sensitive areas.
How to apply the treatment?: You must go step by step, section by section of the treated area. Only in this way will you avoid leaving untreated areas. The result should be as homogeneous as possible. You can take references to know where you have gone and where you have not. It is important that you do not repeat the treatment in an area that you have already visited. The best thing is that you don't get distracted during the sessions or you will forget...
Best moment: You can do it whenever you feel like it, but if you feel that your skin is irritated because it is more sensitive, you can do it at night, before going to sleep and that way you won't have that feeling during the day when you are awake. The next morning you will be as good as new. If you have to do it at another time, you can use cold treatments like the gloves that some kits include, or use a moisturizing cream that calms you.
Bath before the session?: You can do it before or after the bath, since it does not have much influence. But if you have clean skin, it will be better as it does not have oil or dirt that can prevent energy from reaching the follicle to weaken and destroy it. Of course, the skin must be cold and very dry.
Can it be used for the face?: Many epilators have special caps for the facial area, so yes, it can be used on the face. However, it is not effective for men. They are generally unisex, but in the case of facial treatment it only works for women.
My skin hurts or is very irritated, what do I do?: If you have very sensitive skin, then you may feel some discomfort or irritation. If you see that the treatment is too old for you, you can stop it in the area and use other alternatives in that specific area. In general, modern IPL epilators are quite friendly to the skin and adapt the intensity, but not all people are the same... If you have bought a cheap epilator from an unknown brand, it may be harming you because it has not even been dermatologically proven or because it does not have security certifications.

Remember to keep your skin cared for and hydrated by applying repairing or moisturizing creams.

Step by step to use the pulsed light epilator

Using an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal device is simple. You should always read the manufacturer's manual to follow their safety recommendations, as well as any variations that may exist depending on the model you purchased. But generally, you only need to follow these simple steps:

You must do is remove all hair of the zone or area you want to treat. For that, you can use your preferred hair removal method: razor, tweezers, cream, wax, etc. Once you have left the area hairless, wash and dry the skin well.
Select the appropriate bushing of your machine (if you have several) for the area you have decided to treat. For example, you can use the smaller heads for your face if you are using a facial, etc.
Place the nozzle completely in contact with the skin and connect the device for treatment to begin. Applies the treatment to the entire area, some machines use a glide mode using a special button to treat large areas. For small areas you can press and release the button. This will be indicated in the manual of the model you have purchased, as well as the necessary treatment time. In addition, it will indicate the time and frequency of the treatment sessions.
When you finish the treatment, you must clean the nozzle or bushing This guarantees good maintenance. Do not store wet casings, wait for them to dry well before storing.

Remember to read the manual to ensure your skin and hair tone are within the range your device can treat. Additionally, each model will recommend a different treatment duration and frequency .

The devices come with a power level selector, or in other words, a light intensity adjustment, so you must adjust the power first . Other models, however, can adjust their level automatically. It's important to note that they don't work on dark or very light skin, nor on very light, white, or red hair.

The devices can also be used by adjusting the type of flash they emit . You can choose between continuous flash , where the pulses are continuous and regular. This option is advisable for areas where speed is required, such as legs.

The other type of flash would be the single flash , where it will only be activated when the user needs it; in this case, it will be used for areas where more precision is required.

Choose the window with the necessary size. There are areas that require a much smaller type of window.

Position the epilator correctly; its position must be perfect between the lamp and your skin. If it's not positioned properly, it won't work effectively. Glide the device down over the area you're treating, making sure to work in order and without skipping any areas. It's not advisable to go over the same area again due to the possibility of irritation.

What to do after a photoepilation session

Immediately after a session, it's recommended to apply a lotion containing aloe vera to the treated area. This type of hair removal doesn't usually cause irritation, but it can leave the area reddened. Therefore, a 100% natural, pure gel, or even the aloe vera plant itself applied to the skin, is perfect for regenerating it.

It's best to avoid applying any products containing alcohol, deodorant, or perfume for 48 hours . Applying heat or rubbing the area is also not recommended due to potential irritation.

It is also not advisable to remove hair from the area again using any of the methods, whether with a razor or by extraction from the root.

Avoid excessive sweating, contact with chlorine on the first day, and sunbathing is strongly discouraged for at least the first five days.

Stick to your usual hair removal schedule: respect the recommended intervals. Depending on the device or specialist, it's generally recommended to leave a gap of one to two weeks between treatments during the first four to six weeks . After that, the sessions can be spaced out.

Does photoepilation hurt?

When we talk about pain, we must always say that it is usually something subjective. Because not all of us tolerate it in the same way. The machines have some types of intensity regulations. This is perfect to adapt it to each person, according to their sensitivity.

The first sessions are a little more painful, because there is more hair and because you will notice that burning sensation. It is true that it is usually a bit annoying, but as we say, it will always depend on the person.

Even so, we dare say that, as a general rule, it is not a painful treatment.

Is it really final?

It's important to clarify that where the hair has been treated and burned, it won't grow back . However, new hairs may appear. This doesn't always depend on the hair removal treatment itself, but rather on factors like hormones. Some follicles reopen, and new hairs will grow from them. Therefore, it's important to understand that this is a long-lasting and very durable hair removal method, but not permanent. Occasionally, you'll be scheduled for a touch-up session.

Photodepilation can eliminate 80 to 90% of hair . This is because the hairs are in different growth phases, so sometimes the treatment doesn't achieve the full effect.

That's why some follow-up sessions are needed. In the first sessions, around 4 to 6, the treatments must be done over a period of one to two months.

Afterwards, it will be necessary to space out hair removal to around two to three months, which is enough time for the dead hair to fall out and grow back.

It will take much longer to grow over time, so your sessions will become much less frequent. Eventually, its growth will almost stop, and you'll need one or two touch-ups per year.

How many pulsed light sessions are necessary?

This largely depends on the type of product you purchased. For example, Philips claims you can achieve the desired results in just three sessions. Other models may require more time. Therefore, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to determine the treatment duration and number of sessions needed.

Generally, each area of the body varies, and it also varies from person to person . Not all people and areas need the same number of sessions. But as a guideline, the average might be 3 to 5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. That would be enough to remove almost all the hair, and you would only need to repeat the maintenance treatment every year or two.

Contraindications of photoepilation

If you are taking any medication, you should consult your doctor before undergoing this hair removal method. It is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Areas with tattoos or skin damaged by conditions such as psoriasis cannot be treated. It is also not suitable for skin phototypes 5 and 6. A few days before starting the process, you should apply a moisturizing cream , which the center will recommend. Additionally, remember to avoid sun exposure for five days before and after the treatment, as the skin retains heat, and we want to prevent sunburn.

Does it have any side effect?

After hair removal, slight redness may appear in the treated area. This is because the pulsed light burns the hair follicle, which can cause minor irritation. Applying a cold compress can soothe the burning sensation.

Mild inflammation of the hair follicle may occur due to its destruction. This can be relieved by using moisturizing cream or natural aloe vera.

Another effect can be transient hyperpigmentation, where the skin can darken due to an increase in melanin; this is why sun exposure should be avoided.

Blisters rarely appear, but this is usually due to the sensitivity of some fair skin types. It's best not to touch them and let them heal on their own, applying a disinfectant afterward.

Avoid using the epilator on warts or other skin growths such as moles. It should also not be used on scars or skin affected by psoriasis or vitiligo.

It is also not recommended if you are taking photosensitizing medications (contraceptives, depressants or anti-inflammatories) or if you suffer from certain diseases such as diabetes.

Photoepilation and pregnancy, are there risks?

Some beauty salons offer this type of hair removal because they see no problem with it. However, a liability waiver will be required in case of any side effects.

This type of hair removal is generally not recommended for pregnant women. There are not enough studies to demonstrate whether it can harm the fetus, or whether pregnant women have suffered any abnormalities after the treatment.

What is certain is that during pregnancy, women undergo hormonal processes that can alter their skin, so photodepilation applied to the skin of pregnant women can overstimulate their melanin, causing spots or freckles.

Advantages of photoepilation

Using pulsed light (PFL) treatment has some significant advantages over other alternative treatments such as tweezers, waxing, depilatory creams, threading, etc. These include:

Permanent hair removal: unlike creams, waxes, and others, it is a definitive treatment. That is, it removes hair forever after a few sessions. Once eliminated it will not appear in that area again, and will only need a few sessions every year or every two years for maintenance. Therefore, with photoepilation you will forget about hair once and for all. Permanently smooth, hair-free skin…
Security: It is a safe method of IPL hair removal, and gentler than laser treatments. In addition, the adaptive sensor technologies of modern IPL epilators mean that the intensity can be adapted between 5 programs according to your skin tone and hair type. That way it is more effective and safer for you.
Comfort and practicality: It is an easy, effective, fast method that can be used from home. Therefore, you forget about expensive treatments or going to beauty centers and dermatological clinics to undergo these treatments. In a few minutes, whenever you want and wherever you want, you will have the skin the way you want.
Smoothness: Modern IPL epilators have gentle modes so that the treatment does not irritate your skin and is virtually painless even in the most sensitive areas.
Saving: it will allow you to invest in a single IPL epilator and be able to apply the treatments you need, to as many people as you want and without paying fees and sessions in professional centers.

Its biggest advantage is the long-lasting results; it's the effectiveness that photodepilation offers. Its pulsed light system has very positive effects, reaching the root to destroy hair growth. This is why it achieves long-lasting or practically permanent results.

Hair removal treatment is much more economical than other systems and is much more practical to spend when done at home.

The treatment is very quick and easy and is suitable even for tanned skin. It's very simple to perform and almost painless, although this will depend on the device used.

Body parts where photoepilation can be done

Arm and leg hair removal: These are the areas that are most in demand, several sessions are needed for their treatment.
Shoulder, back and torso hair removal: It is another of the quite extensive areas and highly sought after, especially by men, it would also be essential to carry out several sessions.
Armpit waxing: It is a delicate area where there is a lot of hair. You must check if the epilator is indicated to treat this area.
English and intimate areas hair removal: It is another highly requested area, but you have to be careful with the intimate part, since most devices advise against using it in those areas.
Hand and foot hair removal: These are easy areas to remove hair and with just a few treatments you will have positive results.
Facial hair removal: It is another of the delicate areas to be treated, it must be used in very specific areas and depending on the device.

Photoepilation or laser, which is better?

Both types of hair removal eliminate hair permanently, but they work differently. Laser hair removal uses monochromatic light more precisely and continuously, while IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses pulsed light, that is, in intermittent beams.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal uses a xenon lamp. This method emits light up to 5 millimeters from the skin, where it is absorbed by the melanin in the skin. This reaction heats the hair follicle to 70°C, destroying the hair root. The light is polychromatic (multicolored), meaning it operates at different wavelengths, making it an effective treatment, but much slower than laser hair removal. The advantage of this method is that it adapts to different hair types, making it more suitable for various needs.

Laser hair removal is much older and more pioneering than other techniques, and its process is far more precise. The laser light penetrates the melanin in the skin and heats the hair follicle, making it more direct, targeted, and efficient than pulsed light hair removal. It is very effective for light skin and dark hair.

How to choose a pulsed light epilator

Choosing a pulsed light epilator or IPL epilator is a task that may seem simple. Although when you start to analyze certain technical characteristics things get complicated, since not all people have the same needs. To make it easier for you, here are some of the technical characteristics that you should look at when choosing:

Integrated sensor: You should check if it has a smart sensor to adapt the treatment intensity to the type of hair and skin tone. Otherwise you should do it manually. In general, they usually have a sensor and up to 5 intensities between which they can be adjusted.
Durability: They do not last forever, generally light-emitting bulbs last a few cycles and after that they stop working. Usually there are more than 100.000 pulses. The more, the better.
Bushing size: The window of the bushings may vary depending on the area. Some have 2, 3 or 4 centimeters in diameter. This determines the size of the area that can be treated each time, as well as the adaptability of the epilator to smaller areas that need smaller caps such as the face, bikini area, etc. It is ideal that it has several interchangeable bushings.
Body areas and accessories: They are generally quite generic and can remove all areas, but some may not work for certain areas, such as those that do not include facial caps.
Application Method: They generally have two systems for the photoepilation session. One is a single button that automatically launches light emission intervals, and others you have to press the button for each shot over and over again.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a laser hair removal device is your skin tone . Remember that the darker your skin, the more pigment (melanin) it contains, and the more burns, reactions, or pain you're likely to experience.

To determine this, a standard tone chart called Fitzpatrick is used , which consists of 6 types:

Phototype I: extremely white skin and sensitive to the sun. Normally people with very light eyes and hair.
Phototype II: white skin and sensitive to the sun. Generally people with blue eyes and blonde or red hair.
Phototype III: medium white olive color less sensitive to the sun. Nordic alpine type.
Phototype IV: golden white skin that does not usually burn in the sun and tans frequently. People with dark eyes and hair.
Phototype V: dark brown skin that practically does not burn in the sun.
Phototype VI: black skin that never burns in the sun. Black race.

You should know that IPL devices can be used effectively for tones I through IV . However, with type V, it's not as effective or simply doesn't work at all, and even less so in the case of type VI.

Best brands of IPL epilators

Among IPL hair removal devices, some brands stand out above the rest. Keep in mind that this treatment can affect your skin's health, so you shouldn't rely on uncertified brands. Some notable brands include:

Philips: Netherlands-based manufacturer that offers maximum guarantees and security for its devices. With the best photoepilation on the market thanks to the enormous experience of this manufacturer in the field of healthcare and technology. Always with the most innovative technologies and high quality.
Brown: The Germany-based brand is also another of the giants in this field. With models with great quality, safety, innovation and durability. The best results with the confidence of European certifications.
Remington: The American manufacturer may not be at the same level as Braun and Philips, in addition to being certified by the American FDA, which has safety and health standards somewhat lower than those in Europe. But still, it is another of the best device brands, with decades of tradition and innovation.
Ripley: is another distribution chain where you can find trusted IPL epilators. With economical and reliable models.
Beurer: is a manufacturer of electronic devices of German origin. Based in Mittelsttand and very focused on creating technology for health and well-being. It is also another of the cheap brands that you can trust, with the guarantee of its experience since its foundation in 1919.

How much does an IPL epilator cost?

It's not easy to specify a standard price , as there are many manufacturers, models, and series across high, mid, and low ranges. Therefore, prices vary considerably. However, as a guideline, low-end models often cost slightly less than €100 in some cases. Mid-range models could range from €150 to €250. Finally, high-end models can easily reach or exceed €300.

Where to buy a cheap pulsed light epilator

You can find the most popular IPL hair removal devices in many well-known stores , including:

Amazon: The Internet storage and logistics giant is positioned as one of the main options due to its speed, quantity of products and stock, as well as the return guarantees it offers. It only allows you to buy online.
Media Markt: Another option is the German technology store chain that has several products at good prices. You can buy both in physical stores and on their website so they can send it to your home. It doesn't have as much variety as Amazon, but it has the most famous models.
English court: The Spanish chain has the option of buying in its physical stores spread throughout Spain or through its website to have it sent to your home. With the maximum guarantees and being able to take advantage of some offers such as their Tecnoprecios.
Carrefour: in the case of the French chain, it also allows you to buy both physically and online. It has a wide variety and reasonable prices to choose your epilator from. Of course, like the previous ones, it is a trusted place where you will not find problems.
Lidl: There are no epilators from other brands, but they do distribute their own white brands that have very succulent offers and that have become very famous. They are already quite an attraction and many people have already tried their low-cost technology devices with magnificent results. Of course, you can buy it physically and online.