How a photoepilator works, and what it is in general
What is a photoepilator in general, many know - this device, designed for painless and effective body hair removal. Manufacturers, and cosmetologists say, that the procedure is completely safe. The ability to have hair removal sessions at home is attractive for a variety of reasons. But if the purpose and everything is clear, then the principle of operation of a household photoepilator raises questions. All this calls into question the effectiveness of the procedures. Consider, how the photoepilator works, to understand the feasibility of its acquisition.
More about the photoepilator
Photoepilation devices have long been used in aesthetic cosmetology, but only recently has the equipment become available for home use. Specialized modifications, which are acquired for salons, expensive, in contrast to the more affordable "home" models.
The scope of the epilator directly depends on its characteristics and design features. There are universal devices for all hair types or narrow, only for the dark. in addition, there are models with limited resources (number of outbreaks) or with photolamp variables.
Photoepilators are used according to a certain scheme, their principle of action is aimed at gradually reducing hair growth, and the result is long-lasting: from a few years to seven to eight. Before the first sessions, the user must read the rules of operation, view multiple video reviews.
How it works
so, how does it work? It's simple: the device has a special lamp, when turned on, it sends a light pulse (flash). The power of this wave is enough, to warm up and literally blow up a hair follicle, after which the hair will no longer grow.
Dark hair contains melanin, thanks to what perfectly absorb light and heat, transmitting momentum to the root. The light flash does not have a significant effect on the skin in the treatment area, because they have a very low content of melanin, or it is completely absent.
The possibility of burning or injuring soft tissues is excluded, naturally, with proper operation and adjustment of the power of the device.
As you can see, the general principle of operation of the photoepilator is quite simple and explains the requirements for its use. Treatment of blonde hair on dark skin is possible only with models with Elos technology: hair simply will not absorb the light and heat of the IPL pulse. IPL hair removal on very dark skin is generally prohibited, there is a chance of getting a burn. Such a device is not able to recognize hairs and transmit impulse to them, thermal radiation will be absorbed by all dark areas.
photoepilation technologies
There are two current technologies, used in photoepilators: IPL і Elos. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. The principle of action on the hair follicle in IPL and Elos is similar, but there are significant differences, which affect the peculiarity of the photoepilator and even its effectiveness.
IPL features
The IPL system is patented by the Israeli developer 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: creation and transmission of an intense light pulse.
IPL photoepilators act on hair during the growth stage - this is about a third of all hair. Achieve perfectly smooth skin is possible only with regular use of the device for 6 — 8 months, the result of the procedures last about 2 — 3 years.
Home photoepilator Beurer IPL 10000 + SalonPro
This principle of operation explains the existence of models with non-removable lamps, whose resource is limited by the number of outbreaks. Example, a device with a modest figure in 50 000 or 80 000 flashes effectively used to remove hair on the face or armpits. The resource will be enough for about a year, and during this time, each hair follicle will be in the growth stage.
IPL technology is safe for light or slightly tanned skin. To achieve maximum results before the procedure, it is recommended to use sunscreen (SPF 30+), and then - a soothing gel.
Do not use an electric epilator a month before photoepilation, remove hair with wax or sugar.
The disadvantages of IPL are, that such devices work only on dark hair, leaving light and fine hairs intact. Do not use this photoepilator on dark skin, because the light pulse will propagate over the entire area, and this can lead to burns
features of Elos
Elos technology is the pinnacle of technical progress in the field of cosmetology, this is the latest Israeli system, which combines a light pulse (similar to IPL) and bipolar current. Elos-based devices always work from the network, they are more expensive and are a portable station (the design resembles a landline phone).
Though, that Elos and IPL devices are technically different, and those, and others are called "photoepilator".
The principle of operation of devices of this type is similar to IPL, but here the efficiency of the light pulse increases electrically. If IPL acted only on dark hair, then the combination of two pulses allows you to remove 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:
- Has the same effect on hair of all types: light, dark, gray, ore, thin or Pushkov.
- Possibility of epilation on skin of any shade, including very dark. You can also use such devices on dry land, sensitive ??or inflamed skin.
- Compared to IPL, Elos-epilation gives the best effect, distant hair will not grow for several years.
So, Elos hair removal is the safest and most effective way to remove hair today. Portable epilators for the home based on this technology are available for purchase and are available in different versions. The only downside is the cost, Elos epilators are more expensive than IPL versions, and the difference is very noticeable.
Elos epilator iluminage ME 200K
Potential damage
The effectiveness and safety of photoepilation has been proven not only by manufacturers, but also by users. The only thing, what not to forget is about contraindications to procedures. Powerful impulses warm the hair roots to about 70 °, the heat spreads to the skin. In certain situations, this can be harmful to human health, a description of contraindications is always contained in the user manual and operating rules.
Ignoring the requirements for photoepilation can lead to irritation, inflammation and light burns (underestimated power of household appliances will not allow to cause irreparable damage to the skin). There are others, more serious consequences, in the presence of some diseases.
Elsewhere, the photoepilator is a fairly simple and safe device for aesthetic cosmetology. Models for home use tested, their design is optimized for independent operation.
