Does IPL at home work better than hair removal treatments in salons?

How the device works

Credit: Philips

1/5

The Lumea Series 7000 is relatively easy to set up. It has five intensity settings, and it’s also equipped with an integrated sensor, which measures the skin complexion at the beginning of each session and occasionally during the session. As IPL works by tracking pigment (melanin) in the hair, certain skin tones and hair colours might not work with the treatment. If the device detects a skin tone that is incompatible, it will automatically stop emitting pulses.

The device can be used across a variety of body areas, including the arms, legs, armpits, face and bikini. My device came without the attachments for the face and bikini areas, which require different attachments for speed and precision (the face attachment, for example, has an integrated light filter for extra safety). An integrated UV filter within the device also protects your skin from the UV light, which can be harmful.

Credit: Her World/Cheryl Lai-Lim

2/5

While Philips has created an app to help users create a personalised treatment schedule, I was unable to download the app as it is not available yet in Singapore. It's a pity, for the concept of the app, which is to “act as a personal coach to ensure users get the most out of their Lumea Series 7000”, definitely sounds intriguing and extremely helpful.

The experience

Credit: Philips

3/5

The actual process itself was much simpler (and less painful) than I had initially thought, and any fear that I had quickly dissipated as I grew more comfortable with the device. The Lumea Series 7000 itself is surprisingly light, and even after holding it for some time, it doesn’t feel weighty in my hands. Philips encourages one to do a test on a patch of skin 24 hours before using the device on other areas. This test also helps you to find which of the five intensity settings will work best for you.

As I was prepared for a sting, I was pleasantly surprised (and very much relieved) to find that there was little to no pain at all. At level 5 (the highest, and therefore 'strongest' light intensity), the sensation can be compared to a dull rubber band flick on areas of my body that are more sensitive. Being able to be the one who is control of the intensity settings definitely helps to assuage any fear that I had. A friend also pointed out that the ability to dial back the intensity settings is also helpful when you’ve got your period and thus you're feeling a little more sensitive to pain.

The application time is quick and easy. As a guide, Philips notes that the process should take around 4 minutes for the bikini area, 2.5 minutes for armpits and 15 minutes for the lower leg. I found the projected timings pretty accurate – it took me slightly longer for my first session as I was unfamiliar with the device, but I was faster when doing my second treatment once I got comfortable with manoeuvring the device around.

At-home vs in-salon

Credit: Philips

4/5

Personally, one of the major benefits of doing IPL at-home is the convenience. I love that I’m able to do my home treatments from the comfort of my own home, without the hassle of booking appointments and getting ready to head down to the salon.

Another plus of using an at-home device is the price point. I’ve previously done IPL treatments at a salon as well, and the procedure can go from hundreds of dollars to thousands (depending on the body area that you do as well as the number of sessions). While at-home devices are still a hefty investment, they are comparatively more affordable and I consider it a one-time cost.

On the other hand, the advantages of doing IPL at a salon is definitely comfort and efficiency. Procedures at salons are often done quickly and professionally; I can just lie back and not worry incessantly about whether I’ve missed a spot or if I’ll accidentally burn myself.

The verdict

Credit: Philips

5/5

Overall, there are pros and cons to both options, and it’s important to weigh factors such as your budget and time constraints before deciding which is the right option for you.

If you decide to do IPL at home with a home device, do your research before purchasing to be as safe as possible. My initial (and very much unfounded) worries that the IPL device will burn my skin off also dissipated as I grew more comfortable with using the Lumea. Philips instructs to use the device every two weeks for the first six weeks, before tapering down to once a month in order to maintain the results. I’ve seen results within two treatments (after nearly a month). My hair has been growing back sparsely, and the hair that grows back is thinner, less noticeable, and regrows at a much slower pace.

If you invest in a high quality device, doing IPL at home should be safe, effective, and seamless.