Guide

Preparing for Your First IPL Session

July 3, 20254 min read

Preparing properly before your first IPL hair-reduction session can contribute to a more comfortable experience. The most important step is to shave the treatment area approximately 24 hours before your planned session. Shaving removes the hair above the skin surface while leaving the hair shaft and follicle intact beneath the skin — this is precisely where the IPL light energy needs to reach. Avoid waxing, plucking, or epilating, as these methods remove the hair root and follicle, leaving no melanin target for the light to absorb.

On the day of your session, ensure your skin is clean, completely dry, and free of any lotions, deodorants, makeup, perfumes, or skincare products. Any substance on the skin surface can interfere with light transmission or cause unwanted reactions. It is also important to avoid recent sun exposure — if you have been in strong sunlight or used a tanning bed within the past two weeks, it is advisable to postpone your IPL session. Tanned skin carries a higher risk of adverse reactions because it contains more melanin at the surface.

Before treating a large area for the first time, it is strongly recommended to perform a patch test. Select a small, discreet area of skin and apply one flash at the lowest intensity setting. Wait 24 to 48 hours and observe the area for any unusual reactions. If no adverse reactions occur, you can proceed with your full treatment. Additionally, review any medications you are taking — certain photosensitizing medications can increase skin sensitivity to light.

When you are ready to begin, select the lowest intensity level for your first session. During the treatment, you can expect to feel a warm sensation on the skin, similar to a rubber band snapping lightly against the surface. After a few treatments, you can gradually increase the intensity to the highest level that remains comfortable. Position the device firmly against the treatment area, ensuring full contact with the skin surface, and treat each area once per week for the initial phase.