Intense Pulsed Light Hair Removal

Abstract

Background

The use of intense pulsed light (IPL) for hair removal has proven to be quite effective for conditions such as hypertrichosis and hirsutism, as well as other skin conditions related to the pilosebaceous unit. IPL was developed in the 1990s and uses a broad spectrum of light to penetrate the skin and reach the hair follicle, enabling treatment for various skin types and hair colors. This review covers the history, mechanism of action, effectiveness, patient selection, and clinical applications of IPL hair removal.

Methods

To conduct this review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles in English discussing the clinical use or application-based outcomes of this technology specifically for hair removal. The search covered the period from January 1990 to May 2024.

Results

The review of 33 peer-reviewed articles shows that IPL has significantly advanced hair removal treatment since its inception. A popular choice in clinical practice due to its efficacy, safety, and versatility, IPL hair removal has been successfully used in patients with skin conditions like acne, folliculitis, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, offering additional benefits compared to laser hair removal.

Conclusion

IPL hair removal is a safe and effective option for reducing unwanted hair and improving skin appearance. It can also treat multiple skin conditions simultaneously with a low risk of side effects. Additionally, it's less painful than laser hair removal, making it an attractive option for long-lasting hair removal, especially for patients with co-existing dermatological conditions.