What it is
IPL sends pulses of light into the hair follicle, where the pigment absorbs the energy and the follicle is disabled. Repeated over a course, this reduces how much hair grows back and how coarse it is.
We use Lynton, a British manufacturer whose systems are used in NHS settings as well as private clinics. That matters more than it sounds, because IPL results depend heavily on the quality and calibration of the machine.
Areas we treat
Most areas of the face and body, including:
- Upper lip, chin and sides of the face
- Underarms
- Standard bikini, Brazilian and Hollywood
- Arms and legs
- Back and chest
- Not suitable around the eyes or over tattoos
Consultation and patch test
A consultation and patch test is required before your first treatment and costs £32, which is redeemable against the cost of your treatment. It is not an upsell, it is how we check your skin reacts safely to the settings we intend to use.
Suitability is confirmed at consultation and patch test. IPL is most effective on darker hair, while very fair, red and grey hair may lack the pigment IPL needs. We will tell you honestly at the patch test if IPL is unlikely to give you what you want.
Your treatment is carried out by an NVQ Level 3 qualified therapist.
How many sessions
Most people need a course of eight to ten sessions, spaced four to eight weeks apart depending on the growth cycle of the area being treated.
IPL gives long-term reduction rather than guaranteed permanent removal, and occasional maintenance sessions are normal. For hair removal recognised as permanent on a small area, electrolysis is the treatment to discuss, though results vary.
Course prices
Because eight to ten sessions is the realistic course, courses are priced as a block rather than session by session. A course of eight costs the price of six sessions, a course of ten the price of seven, and the price is set by the size of the area rather than by the body part.
A course of eight starts at £234 for the lip, chin or sides of the face and runs to £1,080 for full legs. Full body, everything from the neck down, is £2,250 for ten sessions. After a course, maintenance sessions are charged at a lower rate, from £39. Interest-free monthly payments are available, and every area and price is in the full price list.
Before and after each session
Do not pluck or wax in the weeks before a session, because the light needs a hair in the follicle to work on. Shaving is fine.
Keep the area out of the sun and use protection afterwards. Treated skin is more sensitive to UV, and a tan changes how the skin responds to the next session.