IPL vs Laser Hair Removal: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?
If you’ve been exploring long-term hair removal options, chances are you’ve come across two popular methods: IPL and laser hair removal.
While both treatments aim to reduce hair growth and give you smoother skin, the technologies behind them are quite different, and knowing how they compare can help you make the right decision for your skin and hair type.
In this article, we break down the key differences between IPL and laser hair removal so you can choose the method that delivers the best results for your skin.
What Is IPL?
IPL or Intense Pulsed Light technology uses broad-spectrum light to target the pigment (melanin) in hair. The light energy heats the hair follicle, which disrupts the growth cycle and reduces regrowth over time.
Because IPL uses a scattered range of light wavelengths, the energy is filtered down and is not as concentrated as laser treatments. This often means:
- More treatment sessions are required.
- Superficial depth penetration (approx 2mm, hair follicles lie approximately 3-4mm).
- It’s less effective on certain hair and skin types, especially if you have darker skin tone or lighter hair colour.
- Results can be less consistent depending on the technology used and the operator’s experience. As IPL machines are more affordable, this can vary.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal, by contrast, uses a single focus wavelength of light to precisely target hair follicles. The concentrated beam penetrates deeper into the skin, delivering heat directly to the root of the hair while minimising impact on the surrounding skin for increased effectiveness and comfort.
Because of this, laser treatments tend to be:
- More effective in fewer sessions with longer-lasting results.
- More precise, especially on smaller or more delicate areas like the face or bikini areas.
- More targeted penetration at the depth of the hair follicle (approximately 4 mm).
- Safer and more suitable for a wider range of skin tones when using the right laser technology (e.g., Alexandrite or Nd-YAG).
Are IPLs and Lasers Both Safe for All Skin Types?
In short, no. It is not safe for darker skin types or areas to be treated with IPL. In contrast, medical-grade lasers can safely and comfortably treat all different skin types 1-6 as well as darker areas of the body.
Which Hurts Less, IPL or Laser for Hair Removal?
Due to their in-built cooling technology, lasers are a much more comfortable option and hurt far less. The numbing effect of the cooling systems makes treatment much more comfortable and pain-free.
IPLs, in contrast, rely on gel to cool the skin before treatment. This cooling effect can be quite minimal and messy, leading to a more uncomfortable hair removal experience.
Which Treatment Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for long-term hair reduction that’s fast, effective, and suitable for your unique skin and hair type, laser hair removal is generally the superior option.
At Harborough Laser Clinic, we use advanced medical-grade laser technology that is tailored to your needs, whether you’re treating your legs, face, underarms, or bikini area.
While IPL can be an affordable solution in some settings, it often lacks the power, precision, and adaptability of laser technology for clients seeking reliable results with fewer sessions, laser is the gold standard.
Ready to Make the Switch to Laser?
We offer personalised consultations and patch tests to help you find the right treatment plan for you.
Our trained professional will assess your skin type, hair colour and treatment goals to recommend the most effective laser settings for you.
Book your consultation today and take the next step towards smoother, more confident, hair-free skin – without the guesswork!
Sophie Stankiewicz
Sophie is a laser hair removal specialist and founder of Harborough Laser Clinic. She is VTCT qualified to the UK’s highest standard and certified in IPL, Diode, Alexandrite, and Nd:Yag laser technologies.
If you have any questions about laser hair removal or skin treatments and would like to discuss your options, we’re here to help.
Please get in touch, and we can provide answers, guide you through the process, and arrange a free patch test where suitable.
Ready to take the next step?
Book your free patch-test and consultation now.
