Sun and permanent hair removal
what you need to know
Pulsed Light Hair Removal (IPL) or laser hair removal have become the most popular methods for effectively and permanently eliminating unwanted hair. However, it is crucial to take appropriate precautions, as these methods can lead to undesirable effects on health and skin, especially due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
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Summary
Pulsed Light and Laser: Booming Methods for Permanent Hair Removal
Risks to Health and Skin?
The Sun: Main Contraindication for Permanent Hair Removal
Pulsed light and laser: sustainable hair removal methods on the rise”
Permanent hair removal, especially through methods such as laser hair removal and intense pulsed light (IPL), has gained popularity in recent years. These methods provide a long-term alternative compared to temporary hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing, or the use of depilatory creams.
Permanent (or long-lasting) hair removal utilizes various technologies to eliminate hair follicles effectively:
- Laser hair removal:The laser emits coherent light at a specific wavelength, targeting the melanin present in hair follicles. Types of lasers used include diode lasers, alexandrite lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, and ruby lasers.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL):IPL uses broad-spectrum pulsed light rather than a laser, emitting a range of wavelengths to target melanin in hair follicles.
Pulsed light or laser hair removal can be used to treat different parts of the body, including underarms, legs, bikini area, chest, and more
Health and skin risks?
Laser and intense pulsed light hair removal is generally considered safe when performed by qualified professionals.
💡 Good to know: Since May 26, 2021, the European Regulation on Medical Devices (MDR) – a regulation aimed at strengthening the regulation of medical devices in the European Union, ensuring the safety and efficacy of these devices – has expanded its scope to include certain non-medical aesthetic devices, such as some intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal devices. These devices are now subject to stricter regulations to ensure their safety and performance.
However, as with any aesthetic treatment, there are certain risks and potential side effects, often minor ones such as pain, redness, and a burning sensation. It is essential to consider these risks and follow the recommended safety guidelines.
However, as expressed by the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses), ‘intense pulsed light hair removal can potentially lead to more serious effects such as pigmentation disorders and eye injuries in case of misuse.
The sun: the main contraindication for permanent hair removal.
Choosing permanent hair removal through intense pulsed light or laser requires special attention due to various contraindications and precautions. Factors such as medication intake, pregnancy, the presence of tattoos in the area, skin color and type, and hair characteristics must be considered. However, be aware that exposure to UV rays before and after the hair removal also plays a crucial role!
Yes, you guessed it, sun exposure is strongly discouraged! It is imperative not to expose yourself to the sun three weeks before and three weeks after an intense pulsed light and/or laser hair removal session. Before the session, the goal is to avoid skin tanning to prevent any irritations/redness/burns during the session. After hair removal, avoiding sun exposure helps prevent the formation of brown or white spots.
Of course, there’s no need to stay confined at home. Instead, choose moments of the day when the light is less intense and sunlight is weaker. Opt for an outing early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun’s rays are less strong, and make sure they do not exceed a UV index of 3. If this is not possible, protect the treated area by wearing appropriate clothing.
💡 Good to know: You can find out the UV index around you using the Meersens Pro application or check its intensity through our web app, available on our website
Furthermore, don’t forget an essential ally: sunscreen. Choose a protection suitable for your skin type, with a sun protection factor (SPF) between 30 and 50. Reapply every two hours for optimal protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Would you like to use UV intensity data to improve your products, services and marketing strategies?
Sun and permanent hair removal : what you need to know
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