Laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for hair removal? Which is better?

Article medically reviewed by Dr. Gavin Chan

Templestowe Lower, Berwick and Beaumaris Clinics

Dr. Gavin Chan, MBBS, General Registration (MED0001175745), founder of the Victorian Cosmetic Institute, began offering cosmetic medical treatments in 2004. Formerly a trainer for cosmetic pharmaceutical companies, Dr. Chan currently concentrates on offering ongoing training to cosmetic doctors at the Victorian Cosmetic Institute. He ensures that all doctors stay updated with the latest procedures and methods in the cosmetic industry. Read More

As we all prepare ourselves for the warmer days ahead (they’re not quite here yet in Melbourne!), many of us are looking at hair removal, and in particular more long-term methods of hair removal. Generally, there are two main categories of light-based treatments that are used, laser and intense pulsed light (IPL). However, both are often bundled under the same name of ‘laser hair removal’, even when IPL is used. So what is the difference? Well, laser is a more specific device for a particular skin and hair combination. For example, an Nd:YAG laser is an ideal laser wavelength for those with dark skin and dark hair. There are also other lasers for hair removal on fairer skin.

IPL is a less specific device for hair removal, and tends to try to treat all skin and hair types with a single machine. Although, it can be effective, there are potentially more complications that may arise as a result of their use, especially, on olive to darker skin types.

For more information on laser hair removal and the differences between laser hair removal and IPL, click here.