If you’re one of those looking for hair removal treatments, you’ve probably heard of IPL and laser hair removal. These are the two most popular choices, both of which promise smooth and hair-free skin.
But which is superior?
Let’s cover how these treatments work, including the pros and cons, to help you choose the right one for you.
How It Works
Laser Hair Removal
A popular procedure in medical aesthetics, laser hair removal uses concentrated light to remove unwanted hair. Laser destroys hair follicles, which inhibits hair regrowth. Common treatment locations include the legs, armpits, face, and bikini line. You may opt to have any part of the body treated, except the eyelids and surrounding areas and tattooed skin. This treatment is typically done in a clinic or a medical spa by a trained esthetician.
IPL
IPL stands for ‘intense pulsed light.’ Technically, it’s not a laser treatment. Rather, it uses various wavelengths and applies heat to hair follicles to stop hair growth. Unlike professional clinic-based laser hair removal, IPL is something you can do at home.
Convenience and Safety
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is typically done at a clinic over multiple sessions, so at first glance, this seems like a major inconvenience. However, the most reassuring benefit is that you don’t have to use the device yourself. On the contrary, you may just lie down and relax while a trained esthetician performs the procedure—meaning it’s safer than DIY hair removal methods.
Further, you’ll know right away what to expect. At Canada MedLaser, we make sure that patients know when they can start seeing results. We also guide them on how to take care of their skin while undergoing treatment.
IPL
Many IPL devices are commercially available, which is both a blessing and a curse. While you can easily start your DIY treatment at home, it may be hard to achieve the results you want.
For instance, it’s important to select the right device for your skin and hair type, and this can be tricky if you’re a first-timer. Also, you may end up burning, scarring, or irritating your skin as you try to learn how to use the device.
Versatility and Effectiveness
Laser Hair Removal
Trained estheticians are better poised to provide sound medical advice and tailor your treatment for your skin type, color, and sensitivities. They can also adjust your treatment depending on your progress.
Laser hair removal systems, like the GentleMax Pro used in Canada MedLaser, are effective for all skin and hair types and colors. Aestheticians also know how to adjust the treatment for sensitive skin, guaranteeing hair-free results.
IPL
Most IPL home devices deliver insufficient heat to permanently destroy hair follicles. While plenty claim that they can target all hair colors, these often work by giving off a broad range of energy, rather than a targeted one. While this sounds impressive, hair follicles actually respond to specific temperatures. Hence, a more precise tool like a laser system will be more effective overall.
Still Can’t Choose? Here’s a Quick Summary
To help you pick the treatment that suits you best, we summarized the pros and cons of laser hair removal and DIY at-home IPL treatment below:
| Criteria | DIY, At-Home IPL | Professional Laser Hair Removal |
| Location and accessibility | May be done at home | Carried out at a medical spa |
| Safety | May pose risks and unwanted side effects like burning, scarring, and irritation | Performed by trained, certified estheticians who adhere to safety standards |
| Applicable skin types | Some devices may not work for certain hair and skin colors | Works for all skin and hair colors |
| Some devices are unsuitable for sensitive areas | Perfect for sensitive skin, including the bikini line | |
| Overall efficacy | May not be as effective as laser hair removal due to limitations on available calibration settings | Offers more precise and targeted capabilities; treatment is tailored by a certified esthetician |
| Cost | Cheaper at first, but may end up costing more if it fails to deliver your target results | Seems more expensive but balances out the cost with effectiveness |
| Ease of use | May be tricky for first-timers | No learning curve; procedure is carried out by a trained expert |
| Difficult to use on hard-to-reach areas like the back of the legs and bikini area | Achieves even coverage with the assistance of an esthetician |
Achieve the Results You Want
Every day, Canada MedLaser empowers many patients toward their hair-free journey, delivering both efficacy and safety. Each skin is unique, so we’re committed to providing tailored treatment plans for everyone. Book a consultation in any of our clinics in Ontario to know more about our treatments and technologies.
