Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LASER AND IPL? A: IPL and Laser are light-based treatment methods used in the skincare and med esthetics industry to treat a variety of common skin conditions and permanent hair reduction.
The IPL and Laser equipment deliver their results by emitting a specific range of light energy towards a specific target in the skin. In a successful treatment the light energy is absorbed by water, blood, or pigment in the skin, which are eradicated without causing disruption the surrounding tissue.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL technologies project flashes of light energy onto the surface of the skin. The handheld device is placed directly on the skin and flashed at set intervals. The device emits a broad band of light energy into the skin, which is then quickly absorbed by the target. The diameter covered by the spot size varies and is ideal for larger areas.
IPL treatments are said to have less discomfort involved during the procedure, and require shorter recover periods and visible down-time. The peak temperature during these sessions is typically lower than that of Laser, making it ideal for treating heat sensitive skin conditions such as Melasma and Rosacea.
LASER (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation)
Lasers operate by emitting a single wave of steady or pulsed laser light into their target. Depending on the manufacturer of the Laser equipment, some lasers are not suitable for all skin tones or skin conditions; therefore the technician is required to use different attachments or machines for treatment.
The spot size used to treat with laser is more concentrated, therefore smaller, and procedure time can be longer. For treatment of skin conditions, Laser tends to have a longer period of recovery and visible down-time following sessions. Lasers are said to be ideal for treating leg veins and tattoo removal.
IPL and Laser are both safe and effective treatment methods for treating skin conditions and permanently reducing unwanted hair. It is important to remember that results vary with both methods, there are specific guidelines to follow pre/post treatment, and number of sessions can range from 4-12.
For clients who meet the skin and/or hair criteria for IPL or Laser, the success of treatment is also influenced by the quality of equipment being used, and the technician’s knowledge of operating light-based technology.
In summary, the major difference between the two IPL and Laser is the range of light energy emitted by the device. Regardless of whether you choose IPL or Laser, it is always best to do your research.
Love, Peace, and Great Skin! Dérmica MedEsthetics
(780) 885 7108
dermica.ca
This month at Dérmica, we are offering 40% OFF ALL IPL Hair Removal Treatments. Multiple sessions can be bought during the month, however, purchase must be made on the day of treatment. Excludes packages; No pre-purchasing.
Multiple areas may be purchased, however, treatment time may not go over 1.5 hours for any appointment. Our online booking system provides treatment time information when you schedule online. Schedule your appointment now to secure a spot!
PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA BEFORE BOOKING ONLINE.
PLEASE ARRIVE TO YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH AREA TO BE TREATED SHAVED FLUSH TO THE SKIN.
Time frame: Dependent on size of area being treated.
Recommended sessions: 8-12
Downtime required: 24 hrs
Pre-treatment protocols:
Must not currently be on or have used Accutane or any other oral prescription acne medications in the past 12 months
If currently using any products containing AHA/BHA/Retin A/Vitamin A on the area being treated, you must discontinue usage 2 weeks prior to procedure
Must wait a minimum of 4 weeks (or up to 6 weeks for darker skin types) from last tanning (artificial or natural) AND/OR waxing session
If currently on any prescription medications, check with your physician regarding possible photosensitivity
Contraindications:
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Disorders stimulated by light
Cancer (remission under 2 years)
Epilepsy
Use of photosensitive medication and herbs
Active infection of Herpes Simplex in treatment area
Are you longing for solution to unwanted facial and body hair? Phototherapy is a popular choice, for example, IPL and laser hair removal treatment.
IPL or LASER technology?
The IPL and Laser equipment deliver their results by emitting a specific range of light energy towards a specific target in the skin. Most importantly, both treatments are safe and effective in permanently reducing unwanted hair.
IPL Hair Removal
Our IPL Hair Removal treatment will deliver permanent results on any area of face and body, including male facial hair. Above all, razor burn, ingrown hairs, and embarrassing stubble will be a thing of the past!
Your safety is our first concern, therefore, please review the following criteria before booking online.
Pre-treatment protocols:
Must not currently be on or have used Accutane or any other oral prescription acne medications in the past 12 months
Discontinue usage any products containing AHA/BHA/Retin A/Vitamin A on the area being treated 2 weeks prior to procedure
Wait a minimum of 4 weeks (or up to 6 weeks for darker skin types) from last tanning (artificial or natural) AND/OR waxing session
If currently on any prescription medications, check with your physician regarding possible photosensitivity
Contraindications:
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Disorders stimulated by light
Cancer (remission under 2 years)
Epilepsy
Use of photosensitive medication and herbs
Active infection of Herpes Simplex in treatment area
Use of anticoagulants
If any, potential side effects can include discomfort and fragile skin. Visible effects, for instance, edema (swelling) and erythema (redness), can last up to 24 hours.
Your technician will conclude the session by providing Post Care instructions. After that, you can expect your hair to shed approximately 2 weeks post-treatment. Subsequently, we recommend rebooking every 4-8 weeks.
Treatment course length
Body areas require longer rebooking timeframes than facial areas. Therefore, depending on the area being treated, your treatment course could last up to 2 years. That is to say, a successful IPL treatment course requires commitment.
Treatment Tips
Phototherapy treatments “zap” live hair follicles while waxing removes them from the bulb. As a result, waxing counteracts IPL and laser treatments. Consequently, shaving is the only method of hair removal in between sessions.
Additionally, exfoliating twice per week will help prevent ingrown hairs.
Please shave the morning of your appointment. Furthermore, area should be shaved flush to the skin for best results.
