6 tips to prevent a disappointing IPL result

Did you not get the smooth result you were hoping for when you bought an IPL device? Following the tips below.

• Tip 1. Follow your treatment plan.
• Tip 2. Check the light intensity.
• Tip 3. Check your hair color and skin tone.
• Tip 4. Draw a grid.
• Tip 5. Clean your IPL device.
• Tip 6. Use the device for half a year.

It's normal that you don't see any results yet after just one treatment with the IPL device. You'll get a smooth result after about 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the person and the area of the body. Don't use the device every day, but stick to your treatment plan. You can set up this plan in the smartphone app that belongs to your IPL device. That way, you can keep track of your treatments and progress and you avoid overtreating your skin.

Check if the setting on the IPL device that you're using is right for your skin tone. Follow the steps in the manual or in the accompanying smartphone app to find the right setting and adjust the intensity if necessary. You might be using a setting that's too light, so the flashes have little to no effect on your skin. In that case, you switch the IPL device to a higher setting.

Check in the manual of your IPL device what hair colors and skin tones the device is suitable for. IPL devices work based on the contrast between your the color of your hair and your skin. If these 2 colors differ visibly, the IPL device functions properly. If there's not a lot of difference between the two, the IPL device won't work or won't work as well. For example, if you have a light skin and blonde hairs or a dark skin with black hairs, an IPL device isn't suitable for you.

To avoid skipping areas, you can draw a grid on the surface that you're treating. Note: you can only draw a grid with a white (kohl) pencil, not with a dark color. A dark color can cause burns.

Thoroughly clean your IPL device after use to improve your results. You can check the manual of your IPL device to see how you should clean it.

Hair growth responds differently for each person and body part. Use the device for at least 6 months and wait for the results. The amount of hair that grows back can still decrease in this period. If you don't notice a difference after 6 months, try the tips above.