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Flashlamp - IPL Removal

Flashlamp or IPL, Intense Pulsed Light therapies involve high intensity pulses of visible light to target the reduction of unwanted hair and prevent further growth of the hair follicle at the same time. However, IPL may not be very effective for those with light colored hair. IPL is also used for treating spider and thread veins and specific vascular birthmarks. The hemoglobin or red pigments in the blood are also targeted by light pulses for heating and destroying the pigment without affecting other tissues and skin. Similarly freckles, age spots, mild acne spots and skin discoloration problems such as chloasma or melasma can also be treated with Flashlamp or IPL therapies. The melanin in the surface of the skin is targeted by the light pulses to heat and destroy for removing discoloration. The other names of the IPL or Flashlamp technology include ILS (Intense Light Source), non-coherent, broadband and full spectrum light. IPL hair removal treatments work best in case of deeply pigmented hairs.

The FDA approved IPL hair removal treatments in 1997 in the US, although the use of Flashlamps in photoepilators started in the early 1970s. The IPL technology follows the principles of the Laser technology wherein the energy of the light is absorbed by the targeted colored cells (chromophores). In the process the energy of the light is transformed to heat causing damage or destruction to the targeted area. However, IPL or Flashlamp technology can be distinguished from the Laser treatment by the multiple wavelengths or colors delivered through each pulse of light instead of the singular wavelength used in a Laser technology. Special filters are used by most IPL systems to refine the output of the energy for treating specific areas. This process enables the targeting of specific chromophores without using excessive levels of energy.

The IPL therapy is supposed to be a non-ablative resurfacing technique, targeting the lower layers of the skin and not affecting the top layers. Although the results are not as noticeable as ablative techniques where both the dermis (lower layer) and the epidermis (top layer) of the skin are injured to produce visible results, the downtime factor contributes to its advantages. Significantly less time consuming, anyone may undergo the therapy even within a short lunch break and return to work immediately after.

The different ranges of IPL or Flashlamp machines include Epilight®, Ellipse®, LumenisiI®, and Quantum IPL® to name a few. The design of individual machines may vary depending on the targeted area. Also, the effectiveness of these machines may vary from one to another.

It is crucial to consult a specialist practitioner who would clearly explain the process to you before you start off and define the results that you can expect of it. Always ensure that the technician is properly trained and experienced in Flashlamp/IPL therapies. Before and after the treatment is done, try to avoid exposure to sun for some days or even weeks.

Some of the common side effects of IPL treatment include pain, soreness and pinkness of the skin, hair loss, blisters, bruising affects and a sensation of mild sun burn. To reduce the intensity of the pain you may apply a topical anesthetic although usually it is not necessary. Integrated cooling systems are often a part of IPL devices.