How do you choose the right IPL device?
Choose IPL device
There are different kinds of light-based hair removal devices, which look a lot alike. To choose the right IPL device for you, ask yourself the following:
- On which hair and skin tone do you want to use the device?
- From which body areas do you want to remove hair?
- How long do you want to use the device?
- Do you want a wired or wireless model?
- Which accessories do you need?
On which hair and skin tones do you want to use the device?
Most IPL devices are effective on naturally dark blonde to black hair. If you have light blond, white, orange, red, or gray hair, you can choose from a smaller selection of devices. In terms of skin tones, most IPL devices are suitable for a white, beige, light brown, or medium brown skin. If you have a dark brown or dark skin, you can also choose form a smaller selection. This is indicated in the table per device, as you can see on this image.
From which body areas do you want to remove hair?
All IPL hair removal devices have an attachment that's suitable for your arms, legs, back, and stomach. This light window is pretty big with a 4cm² surface. Do you want to remove hairs from smaller body areas like your bikini line, armpits, or parts of your face? Choose for an IPL device with attachments with a light window of around 2cm². Philips devices also work with specially rounded attachments and extra filters made for your bikini line, armpits, or face.
How long do you want to use the device?
The number of flashes indicates how long you can use the device. Most IPL hair removal devices have about 250,000 flashes. With this, you can remove hairs for about 20 years. The more luxurious the model, the more flashes the device has. Some devices have over 400,000 or 500,000 flashes, so you can remove hairs for more than 20 years.
Do you want a wired or wireless model?
An IPL device with a rechargeable battery works completely wireless. The advantage is that you have complete freedom of movement when you're removing hairs. If the battery is empty, you can also easily use it while it's charging. If you choose a device that works on the power grid, you have to be close to a socket. You have less freedom of movement, but you'll never have an empty battery.
Which accessories do you need?
Before you start with an IPL hair removal device, you shave the surfaces where you want to use the device. Accessories like a ladyshave, bikini trimmer, or pen trimmer. When you're done removing hairs with the IPL device, you skin can feel a bit tense. To take care of your skin, we recommend that you buy some perfume-free body lotion or cream. To protect your skins from the sun in between treatments, it's smart to get sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
