When it comes to hair removal solutions, we're spoilt for choice. However, trying to find a method that won't leave you wincing over shaving nicks or slathering yourself in aloe vera post-waxing disaster is no mean feat.
For those who choose to embrace their body hair, we say carry on flaunting that fuzz. But for those who prefer a bit of maintenance, we decided to dive into the silky smooth world of at-home IPL (intense pulsed light) to see what the fuss is about.
Hailed as the ideal solution for long-term hair removal, IPL works by directing pulses of light at the hair follicle which puts hair to sleep and causes it to shed naturally. Here, three woman explain why they've bought into the hype and swapped shaving and expensive salons for at-home IPL sessions.
- Alison Lynch, ELLE commercial editor
What's your approach to body hair?
“I’m quite sporadic with my hair removal, but the one place where my hair does bother me is on my face. I’ve always been self-conscious about the hair on my upper lip as it's dark and quite noticeable. As I’ve got older, some rogue black chin hairs have started popping up too."
Why did you first try IPL?
"I’ve tried every type of hair removal over the years, from the tub of Jolen bleach cream I found in the bathroom as a teen to waxing and threading. Eventually, all the admin and expense got too much for me and I took to the tweezers — yes, half an hour every weekend was spent plucking out my lip hairs (the glamour). After a friend told me how much she loved her at-home IPL sessions, I decided to invest in a Philips Lumea so I could spend my weekends brunching instead of plucking. I used it every two weeks at the start, and it didn’t take long for the hairs to start falling out. Now, I IPL once a month."
What's the biggest myth you've heard about IPL hair removal?
"That it takes ages. The Lumea is so simple to use - it only takes me five minutes, and my moustache is long gone. I never realised how much worrying about my facial hair actually affected me day-to-day until it wasn’t there anymore."
What's your top IPL tip?
"If you want to stay hair-free, make sure you're using your IPL device regularly. If you stop, eventually the hair will grow back."
The Philips Lumea promises 92% hair reduction after just three treatments and comes with up to four attachments, allowing you to tackle your face, legs, underarms or bikini line with ease
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- Delphine Chui, ELLE contributor
What's your approach to body hair?
"I’m fairly seasonal – read: lazy - when it comes to body hair. I’m much less fussed about my legs, armpits and bikini line in winter, but as soon as the weather gets warmer, I’m the first to don a dress and do a spring preen."
Why did you first try IPL?
"Since I’m half Chinese, my body hair is fine but very dark so I personally don’t like any growth on my legs or armpits if they’re going to be on show. I’ve never been a fan of shaving (it's too high maintenance) and after discovering IPL a few years ago, I've never looked back.
"I still epilate my legs but I use an IPL device on my armpits and bikini line to help those areas stay hair-free for longer - usually, while listening to a podcast. The pulses of light put your hair to sleep, preventing it from growing back for up to six months. Long-term hair removal and an excuse to listen to my favourite series? Ideal."
What's the biggest myth about IPL hair removal?
"That it hurts. I was bracing myself before I first tried it but actually, it just feels like someone's pinging you with an elastic band."
What's your top IPL tip?
"I learnt the hard way (and from a lot of Googling) that you can't use an IPL device without prepping first. Since the hair needs to be trimmed to be 'zapped', it's best to shave beforehand. If you're waxing or epilating, you'll just need to wait a day before following up with an IPL device."
- Em Sheldon, digital content creator
What's your approach to body hair?
"I don't feel any pressure to be hair-free. I remove it it for myself, as it helps me feel more confident, rather than anyone else. How dedicated I am completely depends on how I'm feeling, what the weather's like and how many holidays I have planned. I'm hoping to go away later this year so I'm already ramping up my hair removal routine."
Why did you first try IPL?
"I've had a lot of mishaps with shaving (I actually gave myself a generalised skin infection by accidentally using a rusty razor) so now I'm really cautious. I've tried hair removal creams in the past but they can be messy, plus, I used to freeze waiting for them to work their magic while standing naked in the bathroom! I also have stubborn hair follicles, and would often find stray hairs after using other forms of hair removal. I wanted to invest in a product that would work."
What's the biggest myth about IPL hair removal?
"That it gives instant results. You'll start to see a difference after a few weeks, so if you've got a holiday planned, it's a good idea to start using an IPL device a couple of months before - I use the Philips Lumea."
What's your top IPL tip?
"Work your IPL sessions into your self-care routine. I like to put on a face mask and a hair mask at the same time and make a proper pamper evening of it."
Do body hair your way with the Philips Lumea, available at philips.co.uk/lumea
Project Body Love: ELLE and Philips are joining forces to change the way women think, feel and speak about their bodies. Together, we commit to shifting the dial on body confidence, encouraging a positive mindset and putting an end to negative self-talk and embarrassment.
Our virtual Project Body Love event, in association with Philips, is taking place online on May 15th & 16th. Sessions are free to attend. Register now to reserve your place and receive the full two-day schedule here.
