In this article we answer the question “Do I have to shave my upper lip before IPL?”. Click here for more frequently asked questions.
Should I shave before IPL hair removal treatment?
Yes, you should shave before IPL hair removal treatment. Shaving ensures that the hair shaft is visible to the laser or IPL device, which targets the melanin in the hair follicle. When the hair is not visible, the device may not be effective in treating the hair.
Additionally, shaving helps to avoid potential burns or damage to the skin that could occur if there is hair on the surface. It is recommended to shave 24-48 hours prior to the treatment and to avoid plucking, waxing, or using depilatory creams before and during the treatment.
Consult with your provider about any additional instructions specific to your treatment. Proper preparation will ensure maximum results from the treatment.
What are the risks of not shaving before IPL?
If you do not shave before undergoing IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment, the light energy used in IPL may not reach the hair follicle effectively. This could lead to less effective treatment because the hair could block the light from reaching the follicle. Additionally, if you have longer hair, it can cause discomfort or pain during treatment.
Shaving helps ensure that the light energy produced by the IPL device gets to the hair follicle without any interference. Therefore, it’s important to shave the area to be treated before undergoing IPL hair removal.
How long before IPL should I shave?
It is recommended to shave the treatment area one day before undergoing IPL hair removal treatment. Shaving removes the hair above the skin’s surface, allowing the IPL to target the hair follicle’s pigment effectively. If there is hair above the skin’s surface, hair may absorb the IPL’s energy, reducing its effectiveness in targeting the hair follicle.
Shaving also reduces the risk of burns caused by singed hair on the skin’s surface. Avoid plucking, waxing or using depilatory creams before an IPL treatment as it will remove the hair follicles that the IPL targets.
How often should I shave before IPL?
To achieve the best results with IPL laser hair removal treatment, it is recommended to shave the targeted area once before the procedure.
This ensures that the light energy that destroys the hair follicles directly targets the hair and not the surface hair above the skin. It is essential to shave at the proper time, which is usually 24 to 48 hours before the treatment. However, this may vary according to the individual’s hair growth rate and the targeted area.
Are there any specific shaving techniques recommended before IPL?
Yes, there are specific shaving techniques that are recommended before IPL.
The recommended shaving method is to use a new, clean razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. Avoid using electric shavers, as they can leave behind stubble that may cause damage during treatment. It is also important to avoid waxing or plucking the area before treatment, as this can interfere with the effectiveness of the IPL. Lastly, be sure to avoid using any lotion, oil, or cream on the area before treatment to prevent any interference with the IPL.