Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
In the first part of our big comparison, we analyzed classic methods such as shaving, waxing and sugaring – and one thing quickly became clear: none of these methods offer lasting results. If you want permanently smooth skin, you need more modern solutions. In this second part, we show why IPL is far from delivering what it promises – and why laser hair removal at Laser ONE is the real game changer. As an institute with many years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, we accompany people on their way to hair-free, healthy skin every day.
IPL hair removal – promising, but limited
✅ Advantages of the method
IPL hair removal is based on intense pulsed light, which heats the hair root and thus slows down hair growth. It is often advertised as an inexpensive introduction to hair removal using devices. The method is theoretically suitable for larger areas such as the legs or back – provided that the hair and skin type are suitable for the technology. In practice, however, the results are often inconsistent. The application can be unpleasant to painful, especially without professional cooling, as is usual with high-quality laser systems. The effect is also very limited with light hair or dark skin.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
Despite its popularity, IPL also has clear weaknesses. The method is less precise than a medical laser, as the light is scattered widely and does not penetrate the hair root precisely. As a result, the effect often leaves a lot to be desired – especially with light, red or gray hair, as these lack the necessary melanin. IPL is also not ideal for dark skin and, in the worst case, can lead to skin irritation or pigmentation disorders. In addition, many sessions are necessary to achieve visible results, and the hair reduction achieved is usually not permanent.
💰 Costs
The cost of IPL varies greatly depending on the provider and treatment area. In professional studios, they range between €50 and €150 per session, depending on the area of the body. As 10 or more treatments are usually required, the total cost increases accordingly. Home devices are available from around €150 to €400, but achieve significantly weaker results as they use a lower light intensity and do not allow individual skin analysis.
⏳ Durability of the method
IPL can lead to a temporary reduction in hair growth. In the first few months after several sessions, the hair becomes finer and grows back more slowly. Permanent hair removal is not usually achieved – the hair often grows back completely after some time. Regular touch-ups are necessary to stabilize the result.
🩹 Pain
Although IPL is often advertised as a gentle method, many users find the treatment unpleasant or even painful – especially on sensitive areas of skin or darker skin. During the light pulses, a stinging or burning sensation can occur, which is significantly intensified if the area is not cooled sufficiently. In contrast to modern laser systems, many IPL devices lack effective skin cooling, which can make the treatment unpleasant and stressful, especially with repeated use.
Laser hair removal – maximum effect and long-term results
✅ Advantages of the method
Laser hair removal is one of the most effective and long-lasting methods for removing unwanted body hair. The laser’s focused beam of light penetrates the skin in a targeted manner and destroys the hair root with heat – without affecting the surrounding tissue. The method is particularly precise, safe and offers fast treatment times, even for larger areas. At Laser ONE, we use different types of laser (diode laser, alexandrite laser, Nd:YAG) so that we can treat every skin and hair type individually. A clear, visible reduction in hair growth can be seen after just a few sessions.
❌ Disadvantages of the method
As with any professional treatment, there are a few points to bear in mind with laser hair removal. The method is not suitable for pregnant women or certain skin conditions, and the effect may be limited on very light or gray hairs as they lack the necessary melanin. In addition, several sessions are required as not all hairs are in the anagen phase (active growth phase) at the same time. A series of treatments over several months is therefore necessary to achieve a permanent result – but the result will last for a long time.
💰 Costs
Prices depend on the area of the body being treated, the amount of treatment required and the type of laser used. Small areas such as the upper lip or armpits start at around €45 per treatment, while larger areas such as the legs or back range from €129 to €219 per treatment. The costs also vary depending on the device used – whether diode laser, alexandrite laser or Nd:YAG laser – as each technology offers specific benefits for different skin and hair types. At Laser ONE, you receive attractive price advantages when booking multiple zones: 10% discount for two or more zones, 20% discount for three or more zones.
⏳ Durability of the method
When carried out professionally, laser treatment leads to long-term to permanent hair reduction. After completing the recommended number of sessions – usually around 8 appointments – up to 85% of hair is permanently removed. A refresher treatment once a year can be useful to keep the result stable. Unlike conventional methods, there is no need for regular time and maintenance.
🩹 Pain
Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, laser treatment is largely painless. Many customers only report a slight tingling or warm feeling, comparable to a gentle rubber band snapping on the skin. At Laser ONE, we work with two proven cooling systems: With the diode laser, cooling takes place via direct skin contact, which keeps the temperature constantly low throughout the treatment. Our alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers – such as the Candela GentleLase Pro, GentleMax Pro Plus or Lutronic Clarity II – use precise spray cooling, in which a short burst of ice-cold cryogen is applied to the skin during the laser pulse. This technology effectively protects the skin surface and ensures a comfortable treatment experience even in sensitive areas.
Why laser is the superior technology
Laser technology is the decisive advance in modern hair removal – and for good reason: unlike IPL, which uses widely scattered light, the medical laser works with bundled, high-energy light that penetrates deep into the skin in a targeted manner. The hair root is precisely destroyed without damaging the surrounding tissue.
The result is a lasting reduction in hair growth with a significantly lower return rate than with other methods. At the same time, laser treatment offers maximum safety and efficiency – especially if it is carried out using the right technology. And this is precisely where Laser ONE sets new standards.
Our technology: 3 laser types for all skin types
Every skin is unique – and hair is just as different in terms of color, thickness and depth. That’s why at Laser ONE we don’t rely on a one-size-fits-all solution, but on customized treatments with the most advanced laser types on the market. Our devices work at different wavelengths and are designed to deliver optimal results for all skin types – from very light to very dark. In this way, we ensure that every treatment is maximally effective and gentle on the skin at the same time.
1️⃣ DIODEN LASER (810 nm)
The diode laser is our universal all-rounder – particularly suitable for medium to dark hair and light to slightly tanned skin types. Its controlled penetration depth makes it ideal for large body areas such as legs, back or arms. The continuous contact cooling ensures a comfortable treatment and makes it the preferred choice for customers who want fast and effective results. The combination of power, safety and comfort makes the diode laser the most chosen solution in everyday life.
2️⃣ ALEXANDRIT LASER (755 nm)
The alexandrite laser is characterized by its particularly short wavelength, making it ideal for light skin and fine to medium-dark hair. It offers an exceptionally high energy output, making it particularly effective for flat hair follicles, which are often found on the face, neck or arms. Our devices – including the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus – work with integrated spray cooling, which delivers a short burst of cryogen to the skin for a very comfortable treatment experience.
3️⃣ ND:YAG LASER (1064 nm)
The Nd:YAG laser is the specialist for dark skin types. Thanks to its particularly long wavelength, it penetrates deep into the skin without damaging the melanin-rich surface tissue. This makes it the safest choice for customers with darker skin or tanned skin, where other laser types reach their limits. At Laser ONE, we rely on devices such as the GentleMax Pro Plus or Lutronic Clarity II, which also work with highly effective spray cooling and reliably protect even sensitive skin.
📌 Conclusion: IPL or laser? The difference lies in the result
Anyone looking into the subject of permanent hair removal quickly realizes: IPL can bring initial improvements, but does not achieve permanent freedom from hair. The light pulses have a superficial effect and are limited in their effectiveness – especially on light hair or dark skin.
Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is precise, effective and successful in the long term. It penetrates the hair root in a targeted manner and achieves a significantly higher and more sustainable hair reduction – safe, gentle on the skin and tailored to every skin type.
At Laser ONE, we combine high-performance medical lasers with years of experience, personalized advice and state-of-the-art cooling technology. Our goal: visible results in just a few sessions – and permanently smooth skin, without compromise.
➡️ Arrange a free consultation now – and discover the best solution for your skin!
