Yes, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) does affect hair by targeting the melanin in the hair follicles.
How IPL Works on Hair
IPL treatments use light energy that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair. This absorbed light energy is converted into heat. The heat then damages and destroys the hair follicle and bulb which inhibits future hair growth.
- Melanin Absorption: The light emitted by IPL devices is specifically designed to target the melanin, which is the pigment that gives hair its color.
- Heat Conversion: When melanin absorbs the light, it converts this energy into heat.
- Follicle Damage: The heat generated by the process damages the hair follicle and bulb, the structures from which hair grows.
- Inhibition of Hair Growth: Damaging the follicle effectively slows down or stops future hair growth in the treated areas.
Treatment Duration
The length of an IPL hair removal treatment depends on the size of the area being treated. Larger areas will require more time.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Target | Melanin in hair follicles |
| Mechanism | Light energy converted to heat, damaging the follicle |
| Result | Inhibited or stopped hair growth |
| Treatment Time | Varies depending on the size of the treated area |
| Reference | "The laser light is then absorbed by the melanin and converted to heat. This thermal energy breaks down the structure that supports the hair, damaging and eventually destroying the hair follicle and bulb, inhibiting future hair growth. The length of the treatment will depend on the size of the area being treated." |
In summary, IPL uses heat converted from light energy to target melanin in hair, thus impacting and reducing hair growth.
