IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses polychromatic light across a broad wavelength spectrum, typically ranging from approximately 400 to 1400 nm.
This distinguishes it from lasers, which emit monochromatic (single wavelength) light. The polychromatic nature of IPL allows it to target various chromophores (light-absorbing substances) in the skin, such as melanin (in hair and skin pigmentation) and hemoglobin (in blood vessels). The broad spectrum is achieved using a flashlamp.
In simpler terms:
- IPL uses a flashlamp to produce a wide range of light wavelengths.
- This broad spectrum allows it to target different things in the skin.
- This differs from lasers, which use a single, specific wavelength of light.
