Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is not the same thing as laser although it can be used for similar treatments.
IPL is similar to a very strong light source such as one that supplies light in our homes. It is however much more intense as the name suggests.
Unlike laser it consists of a mixture of light wavelengths all of which are absorbed by the hair or skin to differing degrees. This means that it is not as specific as laser light which is of a single wavelength. In most situations this difference is not important although in some it is critical.
For hair removal IPL is suitable for patients whose skin is light to medium dark. For those with darker skins then Nd:YAG laser is the safer option.
For treating thread veins then IPL is a good method for ultra fine veins. For larger vessels then laser or Veinwave is normally the better option.
IPL therapy can also be used in skin rejuvenation treatments as the intense light stimulates the production of collagen which is an important constituent that helps give skin its elastic structure. IPL and microdermabrasion treatments complement each other and produce excellent results.
