The principle of the photoepilator

What a photoepilator is generally known to many is an apparatus designed for painless and effective removal of body hair. Manufacturers, and cosmetologists claim that the procedure is absolutely safe. The ability to carry out hair removal sessions at home is attractive for various reasons. But if with the appointment and everything is clear, then the principle of operation of a household photoepilator raises questions. All this casts doubt on the effectiveness of the procedures. Consider how the photoepilator works to understand the feasibility of its acquisition.

More about photoepilators

Devices for photo-epilation have long been used in aesthetic cosmetology, but only recently has equipment become available. for home use. Specialized modifications, which are purchased for salons, are expensive, in contrast to the more affordable "home" models.

The scope of the epilator depends on its characteristics and design features. There are universal devices for all types of hair or narrow-profile, only for dark ones. In addition, there are models with a limited resource (number of flashes) or with interchangeable photo lamps.

Photoepilators are used according to a certain scheme, their principle of action is aimed at a gradual reduction in hair growth, and the result is of a long-term character: from a couple of years to seven to eight. Before the first sessions, the user must familiarize himself with the rules of operation, view several video reviews.

How it works

So how does this work? It's simple: the device is special lampWhen turned on, it sends a light pulse (flash). The power of this wave is enough to warm up and literally blow up the hair follicle, after which the hair will no longer grow.

Dark hair contain melanin, thanks to which they perfectly absorb light and heat, transmitting impulse to the root.Light flash does not have a significant impact on the skin in the treatment area, because they contain very low levels of melanin, or it is completely absent.

The probability of burning or injuring soft tissue is excluded, of course, with proper operation and adjustment of the power of the device.

As you can see, the general principle of the photoepilator is quite simple and explains the requirements for its use. Treatment fair hair on dark skin only possible with Elos models: hair simply will not absorb the light and heat of an IPL pulse. Epilation of IPL on very dark skin is generally prohibited, there is a possibility of getting a burn. Such a device is not able to recognize the hairs and transmit the impulse to them, thermal radiation will be absorbed by all dark areas.

Photoepilation technology

There are two current technologies used in photoepilators: IPL and Elos. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The principle of action on the hair follicle of IPL and Elos is similar, but there are significant differences that affect the feature of the photoepilator and even its effectiveness.

IPL Features

The IPL system is patented by the Israeli development company Lumenis Ltd, analogues of this technology are referred to as M-Light, iPulse, FPL, HLE, SPL, E-Light. There are other markings, but they all imply a single principle of operation: the creation and transmission of an intense light pulse.

IPL photoepilators act on hairs in the growth stage - this is about a third of the hairline. It is possible to achieve perfectly smooth skin only with the systematic use of the device for 6–8 months, the result of the procedures will last about 2–3 years.

Home photoepilator Beurer IPL 10000 + SalonPro

This principle of operation explains the existence models with fixed lampswhose resource is limited by the number of flashes. For example, a device with a modest figure of 50,000 or 80,000 flashes is effectively used for removing hair on the face or axillary area. The resource will be enough for about a year, and during this time each hair follicle will be in a growth stage.

IPL secure technology for light or weakly burned skin. To achieve maximum results, it is recommended to use sunscreen (SPF 30+) before the procedure, and then - a soothing gel.

A month before photo-epilation you should not use an electric epilator, remove hair with wax or sugar.

The disadvantages of IPL are that such devices act only on dark hair, leaving blond and fine hairs intact. To use such a photoepilator on dark skin is impossible, because the light pulse will spread over the entire area, and this can lead to burns.

Elos Features

The Elos technology is the pinnacle of technological progress in the field of cosmetology, it is the newest Israeli system that combines a light pulse (like IPL) and bipolar current. Elos-based devices always operate on the network, they are more expensive and represent a portable station (the design resembles a wired telephone).

Despite the fact that the Elos and IPL devices are technically different, they both are called “photo-epilator”.

The principle of operation for devices of this type is similar to IPL, but here the efficiency of a light pulse is increased by an electric one. If IPL acted only on dark hair, then a combination of two pulses allows you to remove the hair roots of any type and color. In addition, Elos is the safest technology, such devices can be used on any skin.

The advantages of the system are obvious:

1. It has the same effect on all types of hair: light, dark, gray, red, thin or gun.
2. The possibility of epilation on the skin of any shade, including very dark. You can also use such devices on dry, sensitive or inflamed skin.
3. In comparison with IPL, Elos-hair removal gives the best effect, the removed hair will not grow for several years.

Thus, Elos-hair removal is the safest and most effective way to remove hair today. Portable epilators for home Based on this technology are available for purchase and are presented in various versions. The only negative is cost, Elos epilators are more expensive than IPL versions, and the difference is very noticeable.

Elos epilator iluminage ME 200K

Potential harm

The effectiveness and safety of photo epilation is proven not only by manufacturers, but also by users. The only thing you can not forget is about contraindications to procedures. Powerful impulses heat the hair roots to about 70 °, the heat spreads to the skin. In certain situations, this may be harmful to human health, a description of contraindications is always contained in the user manual and operating rules.

Neglecting photoepilation requirements can lead to irritation, inflammation and minor burns (the low power of household appliances will not allow irreparable damage to the skin). There are other, more serious consequences, in the presence of certain diseases.

The rest of the photoepilator is quite simple and safe apparatus for aesthetic cosmetology. Models for home use tested, their design is optimized for independent use.