Hair removal

Hair removal treatments that really work

IPL hair removal for women and men

IPL also known as Intense Pulsed Light is a light therapy used to perform many dermatological procedures throughout the beauty and aesthetic industries. In most cases, the technology uses a high powered handpiece to deliver multiple wavelengths from a light source. Filters are then used to emit a chosen wavelength to the skin depending on the reaction you are trying to achieve as different wavelengths have different responses from the skin.
The most popular of these treatments is Hair Removal, with most clinics guaranteeing an 80%-90% hair reduction after just 8-12 sessions – if using high-performance equipment!
Men and women get fed up of having to deal with unwanted hair on a daily or monthly basis and therefore more and more people are looking for quick, easy and comfortable treatments that are effective and give lasting results.

So, how does the technology work?

For permanent hair reduction, the hair follicle itself must be destroyed which means it must be actively growing when IPL treatments are carried out. This is why it is always advised that clients have around 6-12 sessions depending on the treatment area. With IPL, light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft to create a photothermal effect within the follicle. Essentially you are heating the hair up to destroy follicle without damaging the surrounding cells.
During treatment, the handpiece will be placed onto the skin and a short pulse of light will be released to target many follicles simultaneously. This process is then repeated on the next available area and continued until the whole treatment area has been covered. The skin may be red immediately after treatment and the hair follicles may be swollen and bumpy but this usually subsides within a few hours. It is always advised to use a soothing skincare product following treatment to help cool the area down and make it more comfortable for the client.

FAQ’s

Who can be treated with IPL?
Most people are suitable for hair removal treatments and best results are often achieved with clients who have fair skin and dark hair, as dark hair has a higher concentration of melanin and therefore is more easily treated as it absorbs light better. Treatments can take as little as 10 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the treatment area and typically 6 or more treatments are required for optimum results. Treatment is suitable for both the face and body, is quick and results can be seen after just a few sessions.
How many IPL treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will always vary depending on the client and their skin type, hair type etc. Fair hair contains less melanin and is a little harder to treat so we would always recommend a consultation before any sessions start to assess what kind of results the client can expect and it will also give practitioners the opportunity to see if the client will be happy with results.
What are the differences between IPL and Laser treatments?
The key difference between Laser and IPL is the type of light. Laser light is monochromatic, non-divergent and targets very specific concerns. IPL produces a broadband spectrum of white light, producing a mixture of many different colours. These colours can be controlled using filters. IPL is, therefore, more versatile and with Medical Grade IPL you can perform a wide range of treatments, achieving fantastic results which are very comparable to a high specification Laser. Both methods target melanin and in combination, Laser and Medical Grade IPL can be used to achieve even better results.

An example of a treatment that is more effective with Laser treatment is tattoo removal, as the light is constantly emitted with no interruptions, delivering high energy at a fast rate. This causes heat, which then shatters the pigment in the tattoo. Intense Pulsed Light, on the other hand, releases light in one or more short bursts. This is beneficial for treatments of hair removal, vessels and certain pigment because the technology selectively heats and destroys these chromophores to provide a flawless, airbrushed appearance.

Medical Grade IPL technology is perfect for non-medics because the safety profile is extremely high. Our data shows that there is less than 1% instance of adverse reactions, and there is no risk of causing infection. However, the results that can be achieved are comparable to much more aggressive and higher risk treatments, which is great for salons and clinics.

We have a great deal of experience dealing with transgender clients either pre or post-op, please ask for Michelle who is most approachable with all consultation conducted with the utmost confidentiality.

We also offer a range of advanced skin treatments to help you look and feel your best.

Electrolysis hair removal

This method of long-lasting hair removal, invented over 100 years ago, is performed by inserting a very fine, flexible needle into the follicle (the pocket where the hair sits in your skin). Your therapist then skillfully applies a tiny amount of current (heat know as thermolysis) and destroys the lower part of the follicle, which stops any more hairs growing from it. The hair is then removed with tweezers. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, face, thighs, abdomen, breasts, and legs. As with IPL, repeat treatments are required due to the different stages of the hair growth cycle.

Waxing

A temporary hair removal method which will minimise the appearance of hair by prolonging re-growth, making the hairs finer and softer. We use a calming tea-tree wax and soothing antiseptic aftercare cream to reduce any irritation. All treatments are performed in line with new hygiene regulations. Please note we have differing price scales depending upon the treatment required – please discuss this with your therapist.

Available on legs, bikini line, underarms, forearms, facial areas, as well as back and chest for male clients.The hair must be grown for approximately 2 weeks to allow a good wax, and ideally bikini hair should be trimmed to approx 1cm for client comfort.