What is IPL?

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It is a long-term procedure for reducing hair regrowth, the speed of growth of remaining hairs, as well as hair thickness with the use of light energy.

How does it work?

This light is specially controlled to remove shorter wavelengths and devised to target specific structures. In hair removal, it is designed to target the melanin pigment in the hairs, while in other uses such as the treatment of spider vein it targets the hemoglobin in the blood. The light energy is absorbed, transferring as heat energy which warms the hair, causing damage to the follicle.

What are the side effects?

Although the Lumiere prides itself to be the No. 1 IPL Device in Asia, side effects may appear depending on the user’s skin sensitivity.
We advise our users to do a patch test before using the device or gradually test out the level that you will be using to gauge the skin’s reaction.
 

Here are a few moderate to severe side effects of the IPL to those with sensitive skin:

 

  1. Burns, excessive redness and swelling around your hair follicles, should disappear within 3 days
  2. Lighter or darker skin patches, should disappear within 2 weeks
  3. Epidermal heating is a sharply defined brownish area that’s NOT dry, and it’s most common with darker skin tones. It should disappear within 1 week
  4. Blistering, small bubbles on the surface of the skin. They should disappear within 1 month
  5. Skin infection can occur, especially after a burn or skin irritation
  6. Scarring, usually following a burn that takes longer than 1 month to heal
  7. Folliculitis is swelling and pustules around your hair follicles caused by bacteria in damaged skin. Go see your doctor immediately for treatment.

Benefits of IPL

IPL, specifically the Lumiere, guarantees to reduce hair re-growth by at most 92% after 60 days or 1-8 treatments. The copper cooling plate, masks the tingling sensation which makes it easier to use the device continuously without worrying if it will be painful or if burning may occur along the way.

IPL vs. Laser Hair Removal

Both laser and IPL hair removal are techniques that are suitable for use on the female face. However, neither should be used on the scalp or eyebrows. They are safe to use below the cheek line for example on the upper lip or chin, but should not be used in proximity to the eyes as the glare of the light may damage your sight. For this reason, it is important to use sufficient eye protection whenever you are using IPL or laser hair removal, even if you are not treating your face. Some at-home kits come with eye protection included, but if they don’t you can get them cheaply. It is also important that you do not look directly into the light source.

 

 Is Lumiere suitable for me?

The Lumiere is best suitable for those with Light to Dark Skin Types.

You may refer to the chart below to check your skin’s tanning ability or sensitivity to light: