HEALTH & BEAUTY
aims precisely-controlled pulses of filtered light into
the skin. These are absorbed by the melanin
pigment in the hair, which heats up and destroys the
cells responsible for hair growth.
“It’s safe, non-invasive, non-surgical and does not
involve medication,” says Máire, “but the best thing
is that it’s the most
permanent form of hair removal available. At least
75% of the hair is removed permanently, and the rest
grows back lighter and finer, and at a more normal
rate.
Men as well as women have been opting for the
treatment – in the case of men, it’s usually to tame
over-vigorous hair growth on back, shoulders and
chest. Many women choose the treatment to give
them "smooth summer legs" without the painful
waxing.
Before treatment.
After treatment.
Picture: before treatment.
“Excess hair might sound trivial, but for those
suffering from it, it definitely isn’t,” says Máire.
“They have to cover up in summer, refrain from
swimming or playing sports – and, in some cases, are
afraid to get involved in relationships”
For excess hair sufferers, the other big advantage of
IPL is that there is minimal discomfort – unlike
painful waxing, electrolysis, and other forms of hair
removal which many of them have tried.
Said Sally: “I was worried that it might be painful
but it really wasn’t. You have cooling gel applied as
well as an air cooler, so you hardly feel anything”.
Most patients notice a significant change after three
treatments. The recommended course is 5-6
treatments, but each patient is assessed individually.
Picture: After treatm