Why is IPL not suitable for dark skin? (6 suggested safe methods)

To get rid of fast-growing body and facial hair, some people opt for hair removal in a salon, while others do the removal at home using waxing or shaving creams. These methods are either painful or a little dangerous, especially for newbies.

They don't even provide permanent results. In addition to laser treatment, IPL devices are now also popular for permanent hair removal.

These devices have made hair removal very easy and painless. They can give results after just a few sessions and help you maintain smooth skin for a long period of time without having to worry about hair regrowth. But these devices are not suitable for every skin type.

So in this article you will learn everything a person with dark skin needs to know about using IPL devices.

Table of contents:

• Part 1: Why is IPL not suitable for dark skin?
• Part 2: Is there an IPL device for dark skin?
• Part 3: Can IPL devices be used on tanned skin?
• Part 4: 6 safe methods for hair removal for dark skin
• Part 5: Conclusion

Why is IPL not suitable for dark skin?

You must have read somewhere that your favorite IPL device is not suitable for dark skin and now you are heartbroken. Well, not everything is perfect. Instead of worrying, let's stay calm, understand the reason and find a solution for you.

There is a pigment called melanin that is responsible for the skin tone of our body and hair. The stronger the pigment, the darker the skin tone becomes. Melanin absorbs a variety of different wavelengths of light. IPL devices also emit a wide range of different wavelengths of light, which are absorbed by the melanin.

As melanin absorbs the light, it converts the light energy into heat energy and causes discoloration, pain, blisters and even burns. So before using an IPL device, you need to know everything to ensure safety and the best guide for you can be none other than “ IPL hair removal side effects ” .

Is there an IPL device for dark skin?

If you are still not comfortable with IPL hair removal, then we can introduce you to some IPL devices for different color shades that even dark-skinned people can use without any concerns.

Silk’n Infinity

The Silk'n Infinity is safe to use on dark skin up to skin tone V in the US and skin tone VI in Europe and the UK. This is because the Silk'n for skin tone VI is yet to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The device uses galvanic current and special sensors to detect your skin type and activate the modes accordingly. This way, only a low intensity is used on dark skin tones, protecting you from skin burns.

Braun Pro 5 IPL device

Another IPL device that you can safely use is the Braun Pro 5 IPL device. It works with low light concentration and has an automatic adjustment mode for every skin type up to skin tone V. With each flash, the automatic adjustment mode adjusts the intensity so that people with darker skin tones do not get blisters, burns or additional pain.

Iluminage Precise Touch & Me Chic

The FDA-approved Iluminage Precise Touch & Me Chic is an IPL device suitable for skin types V and VI. It produces the best results when used on the face and other small areas of the body. Its small window with many flashes can produce good results even on people with darker skin tones. It is recommended to use the Iluminage IPL device at a low intensity level, which may require more than 7 sessions per week.

Can IPL devices be used on tanned skin?

You might confuse tanned skin with dark skin, but the two are very different. Dark skin is the natural skin you have from birth, while tanned skin is what you get from frequent sun exposure. So even though there are IPL devices for dark skin, that doesn't mean they're suitable for tanned skin too.

The tanned skin area can absorb more pulsating light, causing more heat and eventually skin burns. That's why it's best to treat your tanned skin first and only use the IPL device once your skin tone returns to normal.

6 safe methods for hair removal for dark skin

IPL is not the last option to get smooth skin. There are some other methods that we will introduce you to in this session to keep your skin shiny and smooth.

1. Depilatory creams

Depilatory creams are one of the safest methods you can use to remove hair from your body. They are easily available in stores and you can buy them over the counter. These creams work by dissolving the hair follicles

Since they contain a number of chemicals, they can cause reactions, so it is best to do a patch test before using them on your entire body area. They are safe and provide results. The results can last for 2 to 3 days.

2. Waxing

Waxing is something you can easily do at home without having to worry about anything. There are hot and cold waxes that you can use depending on your preference. These waxes pull the hair from the roots and make your skin hair-free for a few weeks.

It may be a bit painful, but you will get used to it after some time.

3. Shave

Shaving is another method to safely get rid of unwanted hair. It is not only safe but also painless and has been practiced since ancient times. Today, there are various razors to suit your needs, such as electric razors, disposable razors and special razors for women and men.

This means you can easily shave all the areas you want to shave and get silky smooth skin. However, the effect only lasts for a short time, which means you have to shave more often. To find the best razor for you, you can find out more here .

4. Prescription creams

If you are afraid of waxing and shaving, you can try the prescription creams that dermatologists prescribe for hair removal. These creams slow down the growth of your hair and keep your skin smooth for a longer period of time.

The prescription creams cannot remove hair from your body. Before using them, you must remove your hair using whatever technique you are comfortable with.

5. Laser hair removal

If you want long-term results, laser hair removal is for you. Laser technology uses a beam of light to destroy hair down to the hair follicle. Although it does not produce permanent results, the newly grown hair is usually thinner and finer than the previous one.

It is usually performed by professionals and you will need to complete at least 6 to 7 sessions to achieve the desired results.

6. electrolysis

If you want permanent hair removal, electrolysis is a worthwhile method. This method uses galvanic or thermolytic current to destroy your hair follicles. The professionals insert a small needle into the hair follicles and destroy them using the current. It is painful and requires a few sessions throughout the hair growth cycle.

Are you confused between IPL, laser hair removal and electrolysis? Check out IPL hair removal vs. laser hair removal vs. electrolysis to understand the difference and make your decision.

Conclusion

Since IPL devices are very fashionable now, removing unwanted hair is not difficult these days. These devices can also provide long-lasting results, but the disadvantage is that they are not suitable for dark skin tones. Although there are some low-intensity IPL devices, such as Illimunage, Silk'n Infinity and Braun Pro 5, the treatment can take a very long time.

So, there are some other safe methods like waxing, shaving, depilatory creams, laser hair removal and electrolysis to achieve the desired results.

Additionally, if your skin is dark due to moles, acne or tattoos, IPL devices can be harmful to you.