If you’re tired of constantly shaving or waxing your underarms, you might want to consider IPL underarm treatments. But what exactly are they and how do they work? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about IPL underarm treatments, from what they are to their benefits and potential side effects.
Table of Contents
1. What are IPL underarm treatments?
IPL (intense pulsed light) underarm treatments are a type of hair removal procedure that uses light to target and destroy hair follicles. Unlike traditional laser hair removal, IPL uses a broader spectrum of light, allowing it to treat a larger area at once.
2. How do IPL underarm treatments work?
During an IPL underarm treatment, a handheld device is used to deliver pulses of light to the underarm area. The light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles, damaging them and preventing further hair growth. The damaged hair falls out naturally, leaving the skin smoother and hair-free.
3. Benefits of IPL underarm treatments
- Long-lasting results: IPL underarm treatments can provide long-lasting results, with some patients experiencing hair-free underarms for several months or even years.
- Quick and convenient: IPL treatments are generally quick and convenient, with most sessions lasting between 15 to 30 minutes.
- Reduced hair growth: Even after just a few IPL treatments, many patients report reduced hair growth in the treated area.
- Improved skin texture: IPL can also improve the texture and tone of the skin, leaving it looking smoother and more even.
4. Side effects of IPL underarm treatments
Like any medical procedure, IPL underarm treatments do come with some potential side effects, although they are typically mild and temporary. These can include:
- Redness and swelling: Some patients may experience mild redness and swelling in the treated area immediately after the procedure, although this usually subsides within a few hours.
- Skin discoloration: In rare cases, IPL treatments can cause temporary changes in skin color, although this usually resolves within a few weeks.
- Skin irritation: Some patients may experience mild itching or discomfort in the treated area, although this is typically short-lived.
5. Who is a good candidate for IPL underarm treatments?
IPL underarm treatments are generally safe and effective for most people, although they may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or skin types. A consultation with a trained IPL technician can help determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
6. How to prepare for IPL underarm treatments
Before your IPL underarm treatment, you should avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks. You should also avoid plucking or waxing the underarm area for several weeks prior to the procedure.
7. What to expect during IPL underarm treatments
During the procedure, a cooling gel may be applied to the underarm area to help protect the skin and reduce discomfort. The IPL device will then be placed over the area and activated, delivering pulses of light to the hair follicles.
8. Aftercare for IPL underarm treatments
After your IPL underarm treatment, you may experience mild redness and swelling in the treated area. You should avoid applying any products that may irritate the skin, such as perfumes or deodorants, for at least 24 hours.
You should also avoid exposing the treated area to sunlight or tanning beds for several weeks after the procedure. Applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to the treated area can help protect the skin from sun damage.
9. Results and maintenance of IPL underarm treatments
Most patients will require a series of IPL underarm treatments to achieve the desired results. The number of treatments needed will vary depending on the individual, but most patients will require between 6 to 8 treatments spaced several weeks apart.
After the initial series of treatments, maintenance treatments may be needed to maintain the results. The frequency of maintenance treatments will depend on the individual and can range from every 6 months to every year.
10. Comparing IPL underarm treatments with other hair removal methods
IPL underarm treatments are just one of many hair removal methods available. Compared to other methods such as shaving or waxing, IPL treatments offer several benefits, including longer-lasting results and reduced hair growth over time.
Compared to traditional laser hair removal, IPL treatments are typically more affordable and require fewer treatments to achieve the desired results.
11. Conclusion
IPL underarm treatments can be a safe and effective way to achieve hair-free underarms. While the procedure does come with some potential side effects, these are typically mild and temporary. By following the proper aftercare instructions and undergoing regular maintenance treatments, patients can enjoy long-lasting results and smoother, more even skin.
12. FAQs
Is IPL underarm treatment painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during the procedure, and any discomfort usually subsides quickly.
Can IPL underarm treatments be done on all skin types?
IPL underarm treatments are generally safe for most skin types, although those with darker skin tones may be at a higher risk of side effects such as skin discoloration.
How long does an IPL underarm treatment take?
Most IPL underarm treatments take between 15 to 30 minutes.
Are the results of IPL underarm treatments permanent?
The results of IPL underarm treatments are long-lasting, but they may not be permanent. Maintenance treatments may be needed to maintain the results.
Is there any downtime after an IPL underarm treatment?
There is usually no downtime after an IPL underarm treatment, and patients can usually return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.