IPL hair removal has bought more people permanent-ish hair reduction than any other at-home treatment. But it only works on the right hair and skin combinations. Here is the honest truth, straight from the team that talks to buyers every day.
How IPL actually works
IPL stands for intense pulsed light. The device flashes broad-spectrum light that heats the melanin in hair follicles and disables them over time. Repeated sessions force follicles into a resting phase and eventually shrink. It is not laser, but for the right candidates it is extremely effective.
Who gets the best results
- Light to medium skin with dark brown or black hair.
- Fine to medium hair is ideal.
- Grey, white, red or very blonde hair will not respond well.
- Very dark skin tones are not suitable for most IPL devices.
The 12-week treatment timeline
Weeks 1 to 4: treat every 2 weeks. Hair grows back slower and finer. Weeks 5 to 8: treat every 2 to 4 weeks. Weeks 9 to 12: switch to monthly maintenance. Most users are noticeably smooth by month three.
Which IPL device to buy
Browse the JOVS Hair Removal collection. The Pro II IPL with sapphire cooling delivers near-painless sessions. The Scroll IPL covers large areas fast and is a favourite for legs. Both come with a 90-day trial and 2-year warranty.
Not sure which fits your needs? Read our full frequently asked questions or contact our team for a straight answer.