SHR vs IPL for the best hair removal

SHR Ice &Laser vs IPL - Intense Pulsed Light for Hair removal

Many of our clients are asking the difference between laser IPL, Intense pulsed light, and SHR. This article, from the well versed ‘Wellaholic’ gives you the ‘simple’ science behind why SHR is the way to go over IPL…

SHR Laser hair removal treatments are now seen as the most effective method of hair removal for all hair types. Many people are starting to pay attention to SHR (Super Hair Removal) as the better alternative to IPL.

First and foremost, IPL (or intense pulse light) uses a single pulse of energy, at high intensity, which targets the customer’s hair follicles and melanin. IPL works by releasing light in multiple wavelengths directly into the dermis. The intense light and energy from IPL is converted into heat energy and is able to cause damage to the hair follicles without causing too much damage to the skin. IPL suit people with darker and coarser hair better.

A person with fairer skin would require more sessions as the IPL hair removal technology is less effective on them. On the other hand, while IPL is effective for darker-skinned people (darker skin tone), they may have more uncomfortable session (i.e. PAIN!) since their skin will be absorbing more heat energy when the heat affects the nerves.

SHR or Super Hair Removal uses low energy and rapid pulsing diode laser but at a higher frequency. This diode laser hair removal technology allows the skin to be heated gently, but with the rapid pulses, whilst also the skin is being cooled, the energy is then accumulated by the skin. While 50% of the energy is targeted at the melanin (similar to IPL), the other 50% targets the stem cells responsible for hair production.

​This is important to note as SHR can target both fine and coarse hairs. Ultimately, this leads to less discomfort and pain and an improved outcome. SHR is most effective during the hairs active growth phase, hence shaving a day before treatment or just before the hair removal treatment is recommended.

Because of the gradual accumulation of the energy into the skin, there is less trauma and irritation on the skin – making it ideal and suitable for everyone, regardless of skin tone and skin types and even for customers with sensitive skin.

Information from Wellaholic one of the pioneers in offering SHR Laser Hair Removal since 2016