Further Reading
Age Spots
Pigmentation spots can appear everywhere, they seem to be much more predominate as we age,they can appear on the Face, Hands Arms ,and Legs. There are two ways for removal and it depends on the skin as to how I would treat them. IPL is one way Intense Pulsed Light which is costed by the…
IPL vs. Laser: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?
Not sure whether you need IPL or laser? You’re not alone. They’re often confused but they work in different ways and suit different skin goals.
In this article, we break down the key differences so you can make the right call. At For the Love of Beauty, we offer IPL treatment services because it’s safe, versatile, and delivers great results for a range of concerns.
What Is IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It uses broad-spectrum light, emitted in short bursts, to target melanin (pigment) in the hair or skin. It’s not a laser but it achieves similar goals for many people.
Unlike laser devices, which use a single, focused wavelength, IPL scatters multiple light wavelengths across a larger area. This allows it to:
- Treat multiple skin conditions at once
- Cover larger sections of skin quickly
- Cause less discomfort during treatment
- Work effectively for hair reduction, pigmentation, sun damage, capillaries, and more
At For the Love of Beauty, we use IPL in a carefully controlled setting, with settings tailored to your skin type and condition. You can learn more about our IPL treatment service here.
What Is Laser Treatment?
Laser treatments use a single, concentrated wavelength of light to penetrate the skin at a deeper level. This makes them highly targeted and effective in some contexts but also more intense.
Laser is commonly used for:
- Laser hair removal
- Tattoo removal
- Skin resurfacing (like fractional CO2 lasers)
These treatments are typically performed in medical or dermal therapy clinics and can involve more downtime or sensitivity post-treatment.
IPL vs. Laser: Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | IPL | Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Light Type | Broad-spectrum light | Single wavelength laser |
| Coverage Area | Larger, less focused | Smaller, highly targeted |
| Treats | Hair, pigmentation, redness | Hair, deeper skin resurfacing |
| Comfort | Typically more gentle | Can feel sharper or hotter |
| Downtime | Minimal | Can vary—sometimes more |
| Cost | Generally lower per session | Often higher per session |
Which Is Right for You?
Both technologies work. But they work differently, and for different people.
Choose IPL if:
- You want to treat a mix of skin concerns (e.g. hair, redness, pigmentation)
- You prefer a gentler treatment with little to no downtime
- You’re looking for affordability and flexibility over multiple sessions
Choose Laser if:
- You need precision treatment for a specific concern (e.g. darker hair, tattoo removal)
- You’re being treated by a laser-qualified specialist
- You’re willing to tolerate more downtime for more aggressive skin resurfacing
Why We Offer IPL at For the Love of Beauty
We’ve chosen IPL as our primary technology because it delivers consistent, comfortable, and highly customisable results for our clients.
It’s ideal for:
- Hair reduction across the face and body
- Treating pigmentation or sun damage
- Minimising redness and visible capillaries
- Rejuvenating skin texture and tone
With over 30 years of skin therapy experience, we ensure each IPL session is designed around your skin’s specific needs. We don’t overpromise, instead we guide you through realistic results and the best treatment schedule for your goals.
Book an IPL Consult in Hornsby
Still unsure which option is best for you? Start with a conversation. We’ll assess your skin, answer any questions, and explain what IPL can (and can’t) do for your individual goals.
Book your IPL consultation now or explore more about our IPL treatment service.