What’s The Difference Between IPL and Laser?

If you are tired of shaving, then you should consider permanent hair removal.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser hair removal are effective cosmetic solutions to keeping the skin smooth and hairless for an extended period of time.

During the certification to become a cosmetic laser tech, it is essential to know the difference between the two so that you can develop a treatment plan that is best for your clients.

Is IPL The Same As Laser?

Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) utilize light to heat the hair follicle and prevent regrowth. The main difference between IPL and laser treatments, however, is the technology used to deliver the light source. IPL hair removal uses broad-spectrum visible light to create a single white flash like a camera flash. Lasers produce one specific wavelength of light that generates a single beam like a laser pointer. Both cosmetic treatments can be used to address acne, aging, hyperpigmentation and vascular issues.

How Does Hair Removal Work?

Professional laser treatments are more selective and therefore focuses on the hair follicles rather than surrounding skin. While IPL and laser use different technology to deliver the light source, both modalities work by the same mechanism:

• Light energy is absorbed by areas of high pigment such as hair follicles
• The heat damages the follicles and slows hair growth

The primary objective of these light-based treatments is to achieve the critical temperature in the hair follicle while not heating the surrounding skin to a temperature that could cause blisters.

Unlike waxing or threading, you won’t leave the treatment session with immediate results. Most clients will need an average of six sessions for adequate results. The hairs that do grow after a treatment, however, will do so slowly, eliminating the need to shave as often. They will grow back thinner and less course. The hair may even grow paler, making them less noticeable.

Medical Aesthetics Training at National Laser Institute

Are you looking for a career that you will love waking up to every day? Consider becoming a cosmetic laser tech in the $16 BILLION medical aesthetics industry!

At National Laser Institute, we offer cosmetic laser courses that can be completed in as little as two weeks.

Our Comprehensive Laser Course is the most popular among students as it combines didactic theory and clinical hands-on training for the ultimate learning experience.

The first half of your training will be spent in the classroom where you will learn things like facial anatomy, tissue interaction and patient care.

The remaining days will be spent in clinicals where you will watch live cosmetic laser demonstrations and perform treatments on real clients to gain real-world experience. You will learn treatments like laser hair removal, tattoo removal, IPL photofacial, acne reduction, radiofrequency skin tightening and more!

By the end of the course, you will feel comfortable and confident performing laser treatments for any skin type in a variety of settings, including medical spas and physician’s offices.

To learn more about course options at National Laser Institute, fill out the form on your right or give us a call at 1-800-982-6817.