How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs: A Guide to IPL Hair Removal (2024)

Laser Hair removal

Posted on April 9, 2023April 9, 2023 by Glowyskincare

If you are looking for a long-lasting solution to hair removal, you may have heard of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal. IPL uses intense light pulses to destroy hair follicles and prevent regrowth. While it is an effective method of hair removal, it can also cause ingrown hairs if not used correctly. In this article, we will guide you on how to avoid ingrown hairs while using IPL hair removal.

Table of Contents

What are Ingrown Hairs?

Ingrown hairs are hairs that have curled back or grown sideways into the skin instead of growing out of it. They can cause small, red bumps or pimples and can be painful or itchy. Ingrown hairs can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common in areas where hair is removed by shaving or waxing.

How Does IPL Hair Removal Work?

IPL hair removal works by emitting intense light pulses that are absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. The light energy is converted into heat, which destroys the follicle and prevents hair regrowth. IPL is most effective on dark, coarse hair and may not work on fine, light-colored hair.

How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs with IPL Hair Removal

  1. Exfoliate before IPL treatment: Exfoliating your skin before IPL treatment can help remove dead skin cells and prevent hair from becoming trapped under the skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or brush to exfoliate the area you will be treating.
  2. Shave before IPL treatment: Shaving before IPL treatment can help prevent ingrown hairs by ensuring that hair is at the surface of the skin. Avoid waxing or plucking before IPL treatment as this can damage the hair follicle and make IPL less effective.
  3. Use a lower IPL setting: Using a lower IPL setting can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. A lower setting may not be as effective at removing hair, but it is less likely to cause irritation or ingrown hairs.
  4. Avoid sun exposure before and after IPL treatment: Sun exposure can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Avoid sun exposure for at least 24 hours before and after IPL treatment and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
  5. Moisturize after IPL treatment: Moisturizing your skin after IPL treatment can help prevent ingrown hairs by keeping the skin hydrated and soft. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer that is gentle on the skin.
  6. Follow the recommended treatment schedule: Following the recommended treatment schedule can help prevent ingrown hairs by ensuring that hair is treated at the correct stage of growth. IPL treatments should be spaced out according to the recommended schedule to ensure the best results.

Benefits of IPL Hair Removal

IPL hair removal has several benefits over other methods of hair removal, including:

  1. Long-lasting results: IPL hair removal can provide long-lasting results, with many people experiencing permanent hair reduction after several treatments.
  2. Cost-effective: While IPL hair removal may initially be more expensive than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or shaving, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for regular hair removal.
  3. Less painful: IPL hair removal is less painful than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or electrolysis.

Conclusion

IPL hair removal is an effective method of hair removal that can provide long-lasting results. However, it can also cause ingrown hairs if not used correctly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can avoid ingrown hairs and achieve the best results from IPL hair removal.

FAQs

Is IPL hair removal painful?

Most people find IPL hair removal to be less painful than other methods of hair removal, such as waxing or electrolysis. However, some people may experience mild discomfort during the treatment.

How long does IPL hair removal take?

The length of an IPL hair removal session depends on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas, such as the upper lip, may only take a few minutes, while larger areas, such as the legs, may take up to an hour.

How many IPL hair removal sessions are needed for best results?

The number of IPL hair removal sessions needed for best results varies depending on the individual and the area being treated. Most people require 6-8 sessions spaced several weeks apart for optimal results.

Are there any side effects of IPL hair removal?

Common side effects of IPL hair removal include redness, swelling, and mild discomfort in the treated area. These side effects usually resolve within a few hours to a few days. In rare cases, IPL hair removal can cause blistering, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation. It is important to choose a reputable provider and follow all aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of side effects.

Sources

  1. “Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Hair Removal.” American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/intense-pulsed-light-hair-removal
  2. “IPL Hair Removal: What to Know.” WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/ipl-hair-removal
  3. “The Pros and Cons of IPL Hair Removal.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/ipl-hair-removal-pros-and-cons
  4. “Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Hair Removal.” Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/intense-pulsed-light-ipl-for-hair-removal
  5. “IPL Hair Removal: What You Need to Know.” RealSelf. https://www.realself.com/ipl-hair-removal

How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs: A Guide to IPL Hair Removal (1)

Glowyskincare
How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs: A Guide to IPL Hair Removal (2024)

FAQs

How to Avoid Ingrown Hairs: A Guide to IPL Hair Removal? ›

It's important to delicately exfoliate the skin on the days before use to prevent any ingrown hairs, and to shave the areas of skin being treated on the day.

How to prevent ingrown hairs with IPL? ›

1. Practice Good Exfoliation Techniques: Exfoliation is one of the best ways to prevent any ingrown hairs. Essentially, this involves removing any dead cells which can be found on your skin's surface.

How to prevent ingrown hairs after laser hair removal? ›

Avoiding ingrown hairs with laser
  1. Exfoliate regularly. Gently exfoliate your skin in the treatment area to remove any dead skin cells and help prevent hair follicles from becoming trapped beneath the surface.
  2. Moisturize. ...
  3. Avoid tight clothing. ...
  4. Follow aftercare instructions.

Does at home IPL cause ingrown hairs? ›

Yes, IPL is very effective for both removing body hair and avoiding ingrown hairs entirely. In fact, it is the only hair removal method that will completely prevent ingrown hairs from happening. Other hair removal methods might actually make ingrown hairs worse, depending on the method and your skin type.

Which hair removal method causes least ingrown hairs? ›

Try a different hair removal process – Things like depilatory creams (like Nair) have less likelihood of producing ingrown hairs since the hair is dissolved rather than cut.

How to stop constant ingrown hairs? ›

To help prevent ingrown hair, avoid shaving, tweezing and waxing. If that's not an option, use these tips to make ingrown hair less likely: Before shaving wash your skin with warm water and a mild facial cleanser. Apply lubricating shaving cream or gel a few minutes before shaving to soften the hair.

How do you prevent ingrown hairs after hair removal? ›

You might be able to prevent ingrown hairs by:
  1. letting your hair grow longer before shaving.
  2. not shaving too close to your skin.
  3. washing your skin with warm water and a mild facial cleanser.
  4. exfoliating before you shave.
  5. using a single blade or electric razor.
  6. shaving in the direction that the hair grows.

How do you prevent folliculitis after laser? ›

Avoiding heat: Heat can aggravate your skin post-treatment, leading to potential folliculitis. Avoid hot showers, saunas, and rigorous workouts that cause excessive sweating for at least 48 hours after the procedure.

What if I have an ingrown hair before laser hair removal? ›

Does Laser Hair Removal Still Work if I Have Ingrown Hairs? Yes! Laser hair removal still works if you currently have ingrown hairs. The laser technology works by discerning the dark pigment in the skin, called melanin, and delivers heat to destroy the darker area–the hair follicle.

How to draw out an ingrown hair cyst? ›

Home remedies
  1. keeping the cyst and the area around it clean at all times.
  2. avoiding shaving around the cyst, as this can introduce bacteria and cause an infection.
  3. applying warm compresses several times a day to help a trapped hair grow out and bring a cyst closer to the surface, allowing it to drain.

Can you use IPL on pubic hair? ›

IPL hair removal is a progressive treatment that offers full body hair removal - but you can use IPL to treat separate areas, such as your arms, legs, or pubic area, depending on your individual needs. When using IPL, you'll hold a flashgun device that delivers a spectrum of light to the skin.

Can you overuse a at home IPL? ›

We know you're SO excited to experience permanent hair removal, but we do not recommend using your device more than twice per week. Using IPL every day may result in irritation – and it won't work as well, anyway!

How to prepare for IPL hair removal? ›

Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
  1. Avoid Hair Removal. It is important to avoid any hair removal methods that pluck or pull the hair, such as waxing, threading, or tweezing. ...
  2. Avoid Sun Exposure and Fake Tanning Products. ...
  3. Avoid Heavy Skincare Products. ...
  4. Cleanse the Target Area. ...
  5. Wear Comfortable Clothes. ...
  6. Shave Prior Treatment.
Apr 14, 2023

What is the best hair removal to prevent ingrown hairs? ›

The best way to prevent ingrown hairs is to use proper hair removal techniques, including:
  • Before shaving any area of your body, thoroughly wet your skin and hair with warm water.
  • Apply a shaving gel or cream to your skin.
  • Use a single-blade razor.
  • Shave in the direction your hair grows naturally.

What ingredient prevents ingrown hairs? ›

Dr. Chacon recommends using exfoliating cleansers to remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface and reduce the chances of developing ingrown hairs. She says that chemical exfoliators, like glycolic or salicylic acid, break down the cell connections to the skin's surface.

What are the best products for preventing ingrown hair? ›

Use products made with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid — these chemical exfoliants get rid of dead skin around and on top of the ingrown hair, allowing the hair to free itself, says Weinstein. She recommends using spot treatments twice a day.

How can I maximize my IPL hair removal? ›

To maximise your success rate, don't fake tan for four weeks before treatment as the lighter the skin, the easier it is to target the hair. The energy from the laser will be absorbed into tanned skin rather than the follicle and burning or discoloration may occur.

What happens if you don't shave properly before IPL? ›

If you forget to shave, the effectiveness of your treatment may diminish. The laser, instead of focusing on the follicles, might target surface hair. This can lead to heightened discomfort, potential stinging, and a risk of burns. Surface impurities like dirt and oil can also reduce efficacy.

Can I use IPL on my pubes? ›

That might have left you asking yourself, “Can I use IPL for pubic hair?” You sure can, but there are a few important steps to take to ensure you get the best results. Trim existing hair: First, shave, epilate, or wax your intimate area.

What happens if you use IPL too often? ›

Using IPL too often can be ineffective and painful. IPL is most effective while your hair is in the growth phase –if you treat your skin multiple times a week, your hair can become dormant and IPL treatment won't work as well. Additionally, while IPL is a gentle treatment, too much of it can be a bad thing.

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