IPL Hair Removal
IPL involves the destruction of hair follicles using light, resulting in permanent hair removal.
How many sessions will I need?
Approximately 8 sessions are required in most areas for effective results - this varies from client to client, depending on a number of factors including: skin tone, hair colour, hair density, hormones, medications and tolerances to higher fluences, amongst other factors.
Sessions are spaced apart, in-line with the body's natural hair growth cycle, and the following guidelines are advised for optimal results:
Face treatments: 4-6 weeks apart
Body areas: 8-12 weeks apart
Permanent hair removal requires time and patience. Clients are asked to trust the process and follow pre and post treatment advice carefully.
All treatments are subject to patch test & consultation.
IPL works best...
IPL works best under the following conditions:
Brown-darker pigmented hair
Lighter skin tones (up to medium brown)
When clients follow pre-treatment guidance accurately
When the hair growth cycle is followed and repeat sessions are not rushed or forced before they are due
When pre & post cooling is used by your therapist
(this prevents tissue damage and also means a higher energy can be used)
When clients do not have a recent tan
(from the sun, sunbeds, or fake tan)
Session must be postponed by 4 weeks when a client has a new tan
When clients avoid waxing, plucking, epilating for at least 4 weeks prior
(we need a hair under the skin to target)
When clients shave up to 24hrs prior to treatment
When clients arrive freshly shaved with treatment areas cleansed of all products, perfumes, lotions and deodorants
When clients follow aftercare advice.
IPL is not recommended for...
IPL may be unsuitable for (or may need to be adapted* for):
Lighter hair colours (light brown*/blonde)
White/grey/red hair
(these hair colours are not suitable as they reflect & repel light)
Clients with black skin tone
(salons offering long-pulsed Nd:Yag Laser Hair Removal are the safer option for this skin tone)
New Tan (from sun, sunbeds, or fake tan)
Tan pigment will absorb the IPL light and cause a serious burn. Please leave 4 weeks from a new tan from sun/sunbeds, and fully scrub off fake tan before your session..
Clients with photosensitive skin
(please check any medications incase this is a side effect)
Clients using Retinols/peels/chemicals within 7 days
Pregnant clients
Clients undergoing Roaccutane treatment
(please wait a minimum of 6 months after finishing Roaccutane)
Clients who are immuno-suppressed*
(please check with your Dr for suitability)
Patch Test & Consultation
Consultation & Patch Test appointment is required for every client receiving IPL Hair Removal.
This must be carried out at least 48hrs before your first appointment (even if you have have had treatment elsewhere prior).
The cost of this appointment is £20.
This is redeemable against your first appointment.
Consultation is thorough and involves questions around current and recent medical history, medications, allergies, etc.
Client consent is required prior to Patch Test & treatments.
In extreme circumstances, clients may be asked for GP/Specialist consent prior to treatment.
A small area will be tested with the IPL.
Clients will be given all necessary pre & post treatment advice for their sessions.
After treatment...
Keep the area clean, and pat dry.
Wash with unscented soap & warm water. Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and hot showers for 72hrs.
Avoid UV exposure for 72hrs.
Avoid vigorous exercise and tight clothing for 24hrs.
There is a small chance that the area will scab/blister. Do not pick scabs or burst blisters.
Hair follicles may appear red/swollen/itchy for a few hours to a few days. This is normal and part of the process. Ice, Aloe Vera, HydroCortisone Cream and an Anti Histamine are all effective ways of ensuring comfort.
Warmth, slight swelling or a sunburn sensation may appear for the first 24-48hrs. Cold compress, Aloe Vera and unscented moisturiser may help to ensure comfort.
Any concerns should be addressed immediately with your IPL practitioner.
Is IPL painful?
In general, IPL has been described to feel similar to a hot elastic band, pinging off the skin.
However, I take the time to use pre & post cooling techniques, ensuring areas are cooled and numbed to a degree prior to treatment, and that excess heat is removed from the tissues immediately after. This not only minimises tissue damage, but will keep the treatment as comfortable as possible for the client.
Pre & post cooling techniques also mean that I can comfortably use a higher fluence, meaning more targeted and effective results without tissue damage or discomfort.
In Laser & IPL Hair Removal, a temperature of over 70 degrees must be achieved in order to "cook" and kill a hair follicle. Our body temperature naturally sits at around 36 degrees, and our pain receptors kick in at around 45 degrees.
My pre & post cooling techniques ensure I can effectively "cook" the hair follicle and germ cells, whilst cooling the pain receptors at the same time, ensuring a pain-free treatment as much as possible.
Session Pricing
Bikini Area Removal
Basic Bikini
(anything showing out-with the pants)
£55
Brazilian
(most hair removed, leaving only a strip)
£65
Hollywood
(all hair removed: back and front)
£75
Underarms/Half Leg/(Any)Bikini: £140
Brazilian/Hollywood & Underarms: £110
Basic Bikini & Underarms: £90
Alternatively save some money and pre-pay a package of 8 sessions with a discount
Christine
“I recently tried the IPL Hair Removal treatment at The Four Seasons and was impressed with the results. The staff was professional and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. I would definitely recommend this service to others looking for effective hair removal"
Louise
"Can't believe it's time for my next session, and btw... wow, I hadn't shaved the sides of my face 'til this morning! The hair was so thin and hardly noticeable that it didn't bother me. I want my whole body done!"
"Honestly, I'm so buzzing about it! The sides of my face are amazing!! 6 weeks without shaving!! Literal life-changing"
"The camera picked up the hairs, but without it, I could hardly see them.... You see the difference without even having to zoom in".
RHONA
"Absolutely brilliant experience with Gayle, as always. Getting full body Laser Hair Removal which has the potential to be quite a painful experience, however Gayle made sure I was as pain-free as possible..."