LIST: Ditch the razor—here's where you can buy IPL handsets for unwanted hair
Many find traditional hair removal methods like waxing to be time-consuming and inconvenient—not to mention, painful. IPL treatment offers a more convenient option, which is why it's becoming increasingly popular.
IPL, or intense pulsed light, is a non-invasive treatment that uses high light intensity to improve the appearance of different skin problems. According to dermatologist Dr. Emmerson Vista, it is normally used to treat vascular lesions, and skin aging such as freckles, facial lines, and wrinkles, as well as remove unwanted hair.
The procedure is generally considered safe, as many beauty clinics offer this service. Vista said that you have to ensure that the physician who will do the procedure “knows the parameters properly, and it depends on the indication of what energy [they] will use to the patient.”
For utmost convenience, many people have been opting for IPL handsets to do it by themselves in the comfort of their own homes, but it is vital to buy ones that are from reputable stores and are proven safe.
Vista emphasized the need to understand the parameters to avoid complications.
“Make sure to buy something with FDA approval because this is really a device that can also cause complications or adverse effects when not done properly,” Vista told PhilSTAR L!fe, adding that a substandard device can pose a big risk on the skin.
Thinking of using this at home? Vista advises to read the instructions carefully, know what it's for, and always wear protective eyewear—that light can affect your eyes. Don't overdo it, and be prepared for possible side effects like pain during treatment, skin color changes, and a mild sunburn feeling, including peeling and swelling.
Here’s where you can buy IPL handsets:
DIY Smooth
DIY Smooth offers IPL handsets at P4,320. The device can be synced with an app where you can control the device and log your sessions. It comes with a velvet pouch, aftercare body lotion, eye protector, disposable razor, and a detailed guide. It also has enough flashes for 10 years of use. Check out yours on Shopee.
Bare Basics
For another affordable choice, Bare Basics sells an IPL handset for P2,999. According to the brand, you must use it consistently for the first 12 treatments. Afterward, you can simply do minor touch-ups approximately every half month.
The brand swears by it so much that they offer a refund if there is zero effect on you after 12 treatments. It has up to 999,000 flashes which is enough for 30 years of use.
Luxelle
Luxelle, a beauty brand owned by fashion style icon Heart Evangelista, sells IPL hair removal lasers for P6,300. According to the product description, this laser has 300,000 flashes that can last 10 years of use, allowing you to have a long-lasting result without spending much compared to opting for clinic services.
Note that the device cannot be used by children below 15 years old, pregnant women, those currently having menstrual periods, those with allergies and conditions like trauma, eczema, or abnormalities, and people with pacemakers and other devices.
Amazon
Check out Nood The Flasher 2.0 at Amazon for $199 (P11,561). The device promises visible results after four weeks, with two treatments per week. It removes hair without pain on any part of the body, like the face, arms, legs, and bikini, with the session lasting for less than 10 minutes. It was awarded as the best IPL device by Elle Magazine in 2023.
Sephora
If you feel like splurging, Sephora has Foreo Peach™ 2 IPL hair removal device (P27,880). It is said to be clinically proven to reduce hair by 90% in one month and has features like five intensity levels, T-sonic massage, and cooling air to relieve possible burning sensations after the treatment.
This easy-grip device promises a quality one-time investment, equipped with a lamp enough for about 35 years of regular treatment. You can also sync it with an app to adjust settings and log your sessions, guidance, and reminders.
