What are consumers really getting? Permanent hair removal is one of the fastest growing branches in the aesthetic world today. Due to the popularity of these procedures clinics are jumping on the wave of consumer interest and adding these procedures to their menu of services. Consumers have become increasingly confused by the ever evolving information in the permanent hair removal industry. The prices vary dramatically from provider to provider. There are numerous machines, manufacturers, and catchy trademark names. We see advertisements for Laser hair removal, Laser IPL, IPL hair removal, they are everywhere! but is what is the consumers getting “true” laser hair removal? Or an IPL treatment? 

What is the difference? Laser and IPL are very different. The confusion often comes because an inexperienced or uninformed provider interchanges and mixes the names of the two procedures together for example; IPL Laser. In order to understand the difference between the two devices and the effect they have for permanent hair removal it is important to have a basic understanding of the: purpose, power, and precision of these two very different devices.

“Laser” is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. “IPL” is an acronym for Intense Pulsed Light. Both devices are light based and both are FDA cleared for hair removal, however Lasers are much more powerful and precisely targeted to destroy hair follicles; thereby being far more effective in achieving permanent hair removal results when compared to other modalities, such as IPL.

IPL devices are inexpensive, multi-purpose devices that fit in well with medical practices that try to offer multiple services such as: photo facials, photo rejuvenation, skin pigmentation, age spots, rosacea, hemangiomas, spider veins, broken capillaries, freckles, some forms of acne. These conditions do not require the power and precision of a laser. Although IPL is approved for some forms of hair removal, the real question is: what is the best tool for the job?

Lasers and IPLs are both FDA approved medical devices but are approved in two entirely different FDA classifications. The most effective Laser Hair Removal is achieved through the use of a class IV medical laser device which takes far more training and licensure than that of a typical IPL provider. The required licensure for laser hair removal in the State of Florida is one of the following: M.D./C.M.E./ D.O./ P.A. or an A.R.N.P.
 
Unfortunately, because of these competitive times in the cosmetic and aesthetic industry terms like: Laser IPL, IPL Assisted Laser Hair Removal and other various at home hair removal devices have become frequent. Moreover, consumers are being unwittingly ill-advised as to the type of machine and its capabilities with regard to laser hair removal – either intentionally or unintentionally. “Laser” has become an advertising buzz term – but needs to be used honestly and correctly.

Consumers can ensure that they are being treated with a Class IV laser by asking to see the manufacturer label which is located on the machine.  Any reputable provider would be more than willing to show a patient this label.