Description: Permanent hair removal (epilation) Lasers or intense pulsed light sources ( IPL ; also known as flash lamps) are used to reduce unwanted hair growth permanently or at least for a long time. The method works best when the hair contains a lot of melanin and the skin contains little melanin ( i.e. dark hair and light to medium skin tones). Professional providers must be qualified. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection provides tips for consumers for both professional and home use. Epilation with IPL device Source: Yakobchuk Olena/stock.adobe.com Lasers or intense pulsed light sources are used to reduce unwanted hair growth permanently or at least for a long time. In these procedures, the structures in the hair follicle responsible for hair growth are impaired in their function or destroyed by strong heating. However, the techniques involve risks. Users should therefore obtain detailed information before using the technology and proceed with extreme caution. Light sources used In use are mostly powerful lasers of the highest laser classes (3B and 4) intense pulsed light sources ( IPL ; also known as flash lamps) Laser devices Lasers deliver collimated radiation with high energy and power density. Lasers with a wavelength of 810 nm are often used for permanent hair removal. IPL systems In the other hand, the radiation from IPL devices is broadband ( i.e. it consists of many wavelengths). Their spectrum usually covers wavelengths from 250 nm ( UV -C) to 1,400 nm (infrared A). This spectrum is typically narrowed by upstream filters to the part of the visible light from about 550 nm and parts of infrared. These wavelengths penetrate deep enough into the skin to reach the target structures in the hair follicle. The pulsation produces a high irradiance for a short period of time ( approx. 20–100 ms per flash), which increases the biological effect compared to unpulsed irradiation. The effects (and possibly also the side effects) are comparable to laser radiation in many respects. IPL systems are mainly used in medicine and cosmetics. Tips for consumers The use of lasers or other strong optical radiation sources by professional providers is currently (see above ) not restricted to persons with medical training. A medical supervision of the treatment is also not mandatory at present. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection therefore advises: Professional application Before the treatment, you should inform yourself about the professional qualification of the professional provider as well as about the effects, possible side effects, and risks of the treatment. The responsible and professional application of high-energy radiation sources on humans requires a well-founded and comprehensive education of customers and patients. Home use If you use hair removal equipment yourself, follow the instructions for use and the manufacturer’s recommendations. If necessary, seek medical advice. State of 2026.08.11
Tags: Arzneimittel ? Biologische Wirkung ? Laser ? Nebenwirkung ? Optische Strahlung ? Qualifikation ? Deponie ? Strahlenschutz ? Strahlung ? Altlampe ? Energie ? Kosmetisches Mittel ? REACH ? Heizung ?
License: Alle Rechte vorbehalten
Language: Englisch/English
Last harvest: 30.09.2026 01:14
Accessed 1 times.