You've invested in an IPL device, followed the instructions, and started your treatment journey—but the results aren't what you expected. Before you blame the technology, consider whether you might be making one of these common mistakes. Small errors in technique or routine can significantly impact your results, but the good news is they're all easily correctable.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Patch Test
Many people are eager to start treatment and skip the patch test, assuming it's an unnecessary step. This is a risky mistake that can lead to burns, irritation, or allergic reactions.
Why it matters: Everyone's skin reacts differently to light energy. What's safe for one person may cause adverse reactions in another, even at the same settings.
The fix: Always perform a patch test 24-48 hours before treating any new area. Test a small, inconspicuous spot at the lowest recommended setting. If you experience any unusual redness, swelling, blistering, or discomfort beyond mild warmth, don't proceed with that area.
Mistake #2: Treating Tanned Skin
Summer holidays, beach days, or even that quick tanning session can make your skin temporarily unsuitable for IPL treatment.
Why it matters: Tanned skin contains more melanin at the surface, competing with hair follicle melanin for light absorption. This increases burn risk and reduces effectiveness.
The fix: Wait at least 2 weeks after sun exposure before treating. Avoid sunbathing, self-tanners, and spray tans during your treatment period. If you must be outdoors, protect treatment areas with clothing and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Self-tanners are particularly problematic because the artificial colour can trick skin tone sensors, causing devices to select incorrect settings. Ensure all self-tanner has completely faded before treatment.
Mistake #3: Not Shaving Before Treatment
Some people think leaving hair growth will make treatment more effective. The opposite is true.
Why it matters: When hair extends above the skin surface, the light energy is absorbed by the visible hair shaft rather than reaching the follicle below. This wastes energy and can cause the hair to singe, creating an unpleasant smell and potentially burning the skin surface.
The fix: Shave the treatment area 12-24 hours before your session. The hair should be at or just below skin level. Never wax, pluck, or use an epilator between treatments—these methods remove the hair from the follicle, leaving nothing for the IPL to target.
Mistake #4: Inconsistent Treatment Schedule
Treating "whenever you remember" instead of following a consistent schedule is one of the most common reasons for disappointing results.
Why it matters: IPL only affects hair in the active growth (anagen) phase. Regular treatments catch different hairs as they enter this phase. Inconsistent timing means missing optimal treatment windows.
The fix: Set reminders in your calendar for treatment days. During the initial phase, treat weekly for 4 weeks, then every 2 weeks for the next 8 weeks. Consistency compounds results over time.
Mistake #5: Using the Wrong Intensity
Both too low and too high settings can compromise your results.
Why it matters: Too low, and you won't deliver enough energy to damage follicles effectively. Too high, and you risk burns and discomfort that might make you abandon treatment.
The fix: Start at the lowest setting your device recommends for your skin tone. Gradually increase over subsequent sessions until you find a level that's effective but comfortable—mild warmth or a slight snap is normal. If you experience persistent redness or pain, reduce the intensity.
Mistake #6: Missing Spots and Overlapping
Random or haphazard treatment patterns leave gaps where hair continues to grow and waste flashes on already-treated areas.
Why it matters: Untreated areas will continue growing hair as normal. Over-treated areas receive no additional benefit and waste your device's flash capacity.
The fix: Treat systematically in rows, like mowing a lawn. Use a grid pattern, moving the device methodically from one side to the other. Some people use temporary skin markers to section off areas, ensuring complete coverage without excessive overlap.
When treating legs, work from ankle to knee, then knee to thigh. For each section, start from the inner leg and work outward in systematic rows. This ensures you don't miss any areas or over-treat others.
Mistake #7: Expecting Immediate Results
Frustration often sets in when people don't see dramatic results after just a few sessions.
Why it matters: Unrealistic expectations can lead to abandoning treatment prematurely, just before results would become visible.
The fix: Understand the realistic timeline. After 2-3 treatments, you might notice some reduction in regrowth. Significant results typically appear after 6-8 sessions. Full results take 6+ months of consistent treatment. Hair that regrows will often be finer and lighter before disappearing completely.
Mistake #8: Treating Over Moles, Tattoos, or Damaged Skin
In the rush to complete treatment, it's easy to overlook areas that should be avoided.
Why it matters: Moles and tattoos contain concentrated pigment that absorbs light intensely, potentially causing burns. Damaged skin is more vulnerable to adverse reactions.
The fix: Before each session, identify all moles, birthmarks, tattoos, cuts, and irritated areas. Cover moles with white tape or carefully treat around them. Never treat directly over tattoos. Wait for cuts or irritation to fully heal before treating those areas.
Mistake #9: Neglecting Aftercare
Many people focus on the treatment itself but ignore what happens afterward.
Why it matters: Proper aftercare minimises side effects, supports skin recovery, and helps optimise results.
The fix: After treatment, apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturiser or aloe vera gel. Avoid hot showers, saunas, and vigorous exercise for 24-48 hours. Stay out of direct sunlight and use sunscreen on treated areas. Don't apply harsh skincare products (retinoids, acids, exfoliants) for 48-72 hours.
Mistake #10: Giving Up Too Soon
Perhaps the most significant mistake is stopping treatment before giving it a fair chance.
Why it matters: IPL is a cumulative treatment. Each session builds on the last. Stopping after a few sessions means you won't see the full potential results.
The fix: Commit to at least 12 weeks of consistent treatment before evaluating results. Take photos at regular intervals to track progress—sometimes changes are gradual and hard to notice day-to-day. Remember that maintenance treatments will be needed even after achieving your initial goals.
Your IPL Success Checklist
- Always patch test new areas and settings
- Stay out of the sun and avoid self-tanners
- Shave 12-24 hours before each treatment
- Follow a consistent treatment schedule
- Start low and gradually increase intensity
- Treat systematically to avoid gaps and overlaps
- Set realistic expectations for your timeline
- Skip over moles, tattoos, and damaged skin
- Practice proper aftercare
- Commit to at least 12 weeks before judging results
Troubleshooting Poor Results
If you've been treating consistently but aren't seeing results, consider these factors:
- Hair colour: Light blonde, red, grey, or white hair won't respond to IPL regardless of technique
- Hormonal factors: Conditions like PCOS can cause persistent hair growth that's harder to treat
- Intensity settings: You may need to increase intensity if your skin tolerates it well
- Device quality: Lower-quality devices may not deliver sufficient energy for effective treatment
- Treatment area: Some body areas respond faster than others; give resistant areas more time
By avoiding these common mistakes and following best practices, you'll maximise your chances of achieving the smooth, hair-free results you're seeking. Remember, IPL is a journey that requires patience and consistency—but the payoff is well worth the effort.