IPL is just different technology than laser. Laser is a targeted wavelength where as IPL is the full spectrum so filters are used on the IPL head to filter out the unwanted spectrum. It’s kind of like having a device (laser) that’s designed mainly for that one purpose of hair removal, and only works in the spectrum needed, vs another (IPL) which is designed for many things, like photo facials, hair removal etc, and just uses filters that attach to the end to do the treatment.
I started with IPL and I actually had I think the best treatments I’ve received from it as years later I’m still smooth in the area I did IPL on even after doing laser there after. IPL can work if done properly and with correct settings but in general laser is better.
However regardless of whether it’s laser or IPL, all the hair should shed 10 or so days after the treatment. When the pulse is fired, the light converts to heat and frys the root of the hair. After 10 days or so, it’s dead and sheds out. If the hair doesn’t fall out, then the root wasn’t killed and basically the treatment was not successful. Many places tell you it still is but it’s just because they want you to keep coming back or they are misinformed. Even if the hair does shed it still doesn’t mean it’s successful, as the settings can be high enough to damage the hair, making it fall out, but not high enough to actually kill it. In general regardless of laser or IPL you should really feel it and it should be somewhat painful. It you feel no pain then chances are it’s not going to work.
In terms of safety, IPL and laser are the same. Too high of settings on the wrong skin type can cause burning with any machine used.
