If you’re thinking about having a ‘permanent’ hair removal treatment for long-lasting results, one of the key factors to consider is your skin type, which can have a bearing on what type of treatment is most suitable for you.
The ideal skin type for IPL or laser hair removal is fair skin with dark hair. This is because the light energy seeks out contrast of dark hair within the light skin. If there is less contrast (as if often the case with darker skin tones), treatment tends to be less efficient.
Understanding your skin type is one of the main factors in determining which of the two approaches will give the best result.
Fitzpatrick Scale
The Fitzpatrick Scale is an official categorisation of skin type and colouration
- TYPE 1 – white, always burns, never tans
- TYPE 2 – white, usually burns, rarely tans, may freckle
- TYPE 3 – white, sometimes burns, average tan
- TYPE 4 – moderate brown, rarely burns, tans readily
- TYPE 5 – dark brown, rarely burns, tans readily
- TYPE 6 – black, tans or darkens easily, almost never burns
Which hair removal treatment suits my skin type?
Best advice would always be given at a consultation, but as a general rule:
- Skin types 1-4 may be treated with either IPL or laser, depending on the area being treated
- Laser tends to be more appropriate for the darker skin types
HOWEVER, at Mulberry House Clinic, we do not treat skin types 5 and 6 with either laser or IPL, as we do not believe that this is a safe, appropriate and effective treatment. Some clinics claim to have technology which also works on darker skin tones, but we’d advise some caution here.
Advanced IPL hair removal, Northants
Mulberry House Clinic boasts the very latest in IPL hair removal technology with the M22 system. Using high-end technology, this Intense Pulsed Light system is really fast, efficient and comfortable. It is a professional system that won’t be found on the high street. IPL is an advanced device that offers flexibility for a wide variety of hair types with excellent results.
Consultation would include assessment of your skin as well as a test patch so that we can give the best possible advice on your hair removal options. Find out more about the options:
Intense Pulsed Light hair removal treatment at Mulberry House Clinic and Laser Centre is carried out by former senior nurse, Liz Tanqueray.
For further information about laser hair removal, patients can book an initial appointment, which is the ideal opportunity to have an assessment and discuss what course of treatment and timing would be most suitable.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
