Frequently Asked Questions

Shave the area 12–24 hours beforehand This is super important! IPL targets the hair follicle under the skin, not the hair on the surface. Shaving helps the light reach the follicle effectively and reduces the risk of skin irritation. (Please don’t wax, epilate or pluck between sessions as this removes the follicle I need to target!) Avoid fake tan and sun exposure The treatment area should be free from fake tan and sunburn. Ideally, avoid direct sun and sunbeds for at least 2 weeks before your appointment. If your skin is freshly tanned, we may need to postpone your session for safety. Let me know about any new medications Some meds can increase your skin’s sensitivity to light, so it’s important to keep me updated on anything new you’ve started taking. Skip skincare on the day Please don’t apply any lotions, creams, oils or deodorants on the treatment area before you come in - if you do please ensure they are thoroughly removed before you come. Complete your consultation forms These are sent ahead of time and must be filled out before your session so I can make sure you’re good to go. If you’re ever unsure about anything before your appointment, just drop me a message.

Everyone’s pain threshold is different, but most clients describe IPL as a mild flick or warm elastic band snap — totally manageable! I also use ice packs before and after to keep you comfortable throughout. You might feel a little heat or tingling afterwards, but nothing that’ll stop you from getting on with your day. It’s one of those “it’s not too bad because you know it’s working” kind of feelings!

It really depends on the area (or areas) being treated, but here’s a rough guide to help you plan: Small areas like the underarms, chin or upper lip – around 15–20 minutes Medium areas like the bikini line or half legs – around 30–45 minutes Larger areas like full legs, back, or multiple areas combined – up to an hour (or more). If it’s your first appointment, I’ll also factor in time for a catch-up and a quick check-in to make sure your skin is happy and prepped for treatment. (I like to make sure you feel relaxed and fully informed before we start!)

Yes, absolutely! In fact, I recommend shaving before your sessions. You’ll want to avoid waxing, plucking, or epilating during your treatment course, as these remove the hair from the follicle — and we need that follicle intact for the IPL to do its job. Shaving is your best friend during this process.

This is one of the most common questions I get — and honestly, it varies from person to person. Most clients will need 6–12 sessions, spaced around 4–8 weeks apart, depending on the area being treated and your hair growth cycle. Things like hair colour, skin tone, hormonal imbalances, and even medication can all play a part in how many sessions you’ll need. Facial areas (like the chin or upper lip) tend to need sessions every 4–6 weeks, while body areas (like legs or underarms) are more like 6–8 weeks apart. The good news? Most people start to see a difference after just a couple of sessions — think slower growth, finer hairs, and smoother skin. Once your full course is complete, top-up sessions once or twice a year help maintain your results long term.

Side effects are usually super minimal — think mild redness or warmth in the treated area, which typically settles within a few hours. Most clients go straight back to their day afterwards. As always, I’ll go through everything with you at your consultation and provide full aftercare advice to keep your skin happy and protected.