Side Effects of IPL Hair Removal What You Must Know

IPL hair removal is one of the safest and most effective methods for long-term hair reduction at home. But like any skin treatment, there are a few side effects users may experience—especially when using low-quality or incorrect devices.

At The Lux Skins, your safety comes first. Since 2019, we’ve helped thousands of customers worldwide (including in Pakistan, UAE, Australia, and beyond) get smooth, hair-free skin without burns, scars, or pain.

In this guide, we break down the most common side effects of IPL hair removal, why they happen, and how to completely avoid them using our cold flash, melanin-safe devices.

Are IPL Side Effects Common?

When performed correctly using a high-quality device, IPL is extremely safe. Most people experience no side effects or only minor temporary effects, such as warmth or slight redness.

However, risks increase when:

  • Devices are used incorrectly

  • The device lacks cooling or skin sensors

  • The wrong skin type or hair type is treated

  • Post-treatment care is ignored

That’s why using dermatologist-approved, cold-flash IPL devices like The Lux Skins is critical.

View Our Full IPL Collection

Common IPL Side Effects (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Redness or Warmth

Why it happens: Temporary heat response in the treated area.

Duration: 1–2 hours, rarely longer.

How to avoid it:

  • Always use a cold-flash device like  Ulike Sapphire Air+ IPL

  • Apply  Aloe Vera Calm Repair Serum right after the session

  • Avoid hot water, workouts, or steam rooms for 24 hours

2. Skin Dryness or Flaking

Why it happens: Over-treatment or lack of hydration post-session.

Prevention:

  • Use once per week only—no overuse

  • Lock in moisture with Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cream

  • Stay away from alcohol-based toners or scrubs for 48 hours

3. Hyperpigmentation or Dark Spots

Why it happens: Sun exposure after treatment or using IPL on tanned skin.

How to prevent:

  • Do not use IPL on sunburned or recently tanned skin

  • Apply SPF 50+ Daily Sunscreen every day, even indoors

  • Treat in the evening to reduce post-treatment sun exposure

4. Ingrown Hairs or Folliculitis

Why it happens: Shaving too close or clogged follicles after treatment.

Prevention:

  • Exfoliate gently 2–3 days after IPL using a soft cloth (not harsh scrubs)

  • Use  Niacinamide Barrier Serum to reduce inflammation

  • Avoid tight clothing on the area post-treatment (especially inner thighs and underarms)

5. Temporary Itching or Bumps

Why it happens: Hair shedding process or heat response.

Solution:

  • Don’t scratch—apply aloe or cold compress

  • Keep skin hydrated and wear breathable clothing

  • Avoid fragranced lotions or perfumed sprays after IPL

Rare But Avoidable Risks

Issue Cause How The Lux Skins Prevents It
Burns or blisters Low-quality device or improper intensity Our devices have cold flash + sensors
Eye damage Flashing near eyes without protection We include protective goggles
Scarring or PIH Using on melanin-rich skin with unsafe tools Our IPL devices are safe for all tones (Fitzpatrick I–V)

Who Should Avoid IPL?

Avoid or consult your doctor first if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have active eczema, psoriasis, or open wounds in the area

  • Have extremely light hair (grey, red, or white)

  • Use isotretinoin (Accutane) or strong topical retinoids

Post-Treatment Care Checklist

Do Immediately After IPL Avoid for 48 Hours
Apply Aloe Vera or Panthenol-based serum Hot showers, steam, intense workouts
Use SPF 50 daily Scrubs, retinol, or acid-based products
Wear loose, breathable fabrics Fragrance-heavy creams or lotions
Keep skin clean and dry Exfoliation or shaving

Why Choose The Lux Skins IPL?

Our devices are:

  • Equipped with cold flash technology

  • Safe for sensitive and melanin-rich skin

  • Designed with smart sensors to auto-adjust intensity

  • Dermatologically tested and globally trusted

  • Covered with a 90-day money-back guarantee

Shop IPL Devices with Full Safety Features →