Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
A professional IPL device uses intense pulsed light for effective skin improvement and hair removal. Ideal for pigment spots, redness, and unwanted hair growth.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
An IPL device is a commonly used technology in medical and aesthetic practice for skin improvement and hair removal. IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and uses broadband light energy to address a variety of skin indications, from pigmentation spots and diffuse redness to unwanted hair growth. Unlike home devices, this page discusses high-energy, professional IPL systems developed for clinical use and offering a high degree of effectiveness and safety. These systems typically operate with a broad wavelength range between 500 and 1200 nm. The intensity and filtering of these systems determine the depth of coverage, suitability for indications, and safety for each skin type.
Discover on this page what IPL exactly is, how it works, and how to choose the best system for your practice.
What is IPL and how does it work?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a technology that delivers light pulses of varying wavelengths into the skin. This light energy is absorbed by chromophores in the skin, such as melanin (pigment) or hemoglobin (blood), and converted into heat. This thermal effect specifically destroys the treated tissue (such as hair follicles or pigment cells) without damaging the surrounding skin.
Professional IPL systems use advanced filtering, specific bandwidths, and contact cooling to make the treatment safer, more effective, and more precise than consumer devices.
Benefits of professional IPL devices
- Widely applicable: suitable for hair removal, pigment, kegs and skin improvement
- Treatments can be performed quickly with minimal downtime
- Large treatment heads ensure efficient sessions
- Ability to adjust wavelengths and filters per indication
- Suitable for a wide range of skin types (depending on the system)
- Professional systems deliver more energy (high-energy) for deeper action and better results
Types of IPL devices
A wide range of IPL systems is available. At Dalton Medical, we focus on high-energy IPL devices specifically designed for professional use in medical and aesthetic practices. These systems offer:
- Selective waveband technology (SWT) for more targeted energy delivery
- Adjustable wavelength bands within the range of 500–1200 nm
- Built-in cooling for more comfort and safety
- Advanced pulse technology for precise settings
High-energy IPL systems differ from consumer devices in that they produce more intense light pulses with higher peak power, more precise filtering, and more stable output. This results in greater clinical effectiveness with fewer treatments.
Questions?
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For which indications is IPL suitable?
Choosing the best IPL device for your practice
When choosing the right IPL system it is important to look at:
- The energy capacity of the device (high-energy vs. low-energy systems)
- The indications you want to treat
- The skin types within your target group
- Support and training you receive when purchasing
- The degree of adaptability (filters, pulse lengths, cooling mechanisms)
Dalton Medical is happy to advise you on which system best suits your needs.
FAQ
Professional IPL devices deliver higher energy, have a more stable pulse output, and feature advanced cooling and filtering options. Designed for clinical use, they offer more reliable results and more adjustment options than consumer devices for home use. They are also CE medically approved and suitable for prolonged, intensive use.
IPL is generally suitable for skin types I-III. Caution is advised for more severe skin types (IV-VI) due to the risk of hyperpigmentation or burning. Some high-end IPL systems (such as those with SWT technology) have filters and settings that make treatments on darker skin safer, but in many cases, an Nd:YAG laser is more suitable for this group.
In the Netherlands, only skin therapists or physicians who comply with applicable laws and regulations may use IPLs in a medical setting. Depending on the device's energy level and the type of treatment, additional requirements may apply, such as BIG registration or accredited training.
That depends on your treatment indications, target group, and budget. Key factors include energy output, adaptability, ease of use, and service/support. High-energy systems offer greater effectiveness and versatility than basic equipment. When choosing, also consider clinical validation, medical CE marking, and user-friendliness.
An IPL uses broadband light with multiple wavelengths (usually 500–1200 nm), while a laser emits a single, highly specific wavelength. This makes a laser often more powerful and targeted for a single indication, while an IPL is more versatile for multiple superficial skin conditions.
The term "best" depends on your practice needs. High-energy IPL systems with selective waveband technology are considered leading due to their effectiveness and safety. Always seek advice based on your treatment needs.
Yes, IPL is suitable for men, for example, for treating unwanted hair growth on the back, chest, or beard line. However, men often have thicker and darker hair, making it important to use a powerful and professional system.
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Looking to buy an IPL device or need more information?
Are you looking for a professional IPL device for your salon or clinic? Dalton Medical offers high-energy systems suitable for a wide range of skin treatments. Contact us for advice, training, and demonstrations. Call + 31(0) 162 74 44 44 or use the contact form.