IPL Hair Removal

IPL-based permanent hair reduction at MEDIKAP Pardubice, performed under dermatological supervision. Intense pulsed light targets melanin in the hair follicle, delivering photothermal energy that disrupts the follicle's ability to regrow hair. Priced at 1 200 Kč per area per session, the treatment is suitable for most body areas including legs, bikini line, underarms, face, and back. Because melanin is the target chromophore, the treatment is most effective on dark hair against lighter skin. A minimum of 6–10 sessions is needed to address all hair follicles across their growth cycles.

IPL hair removal at MEDIKAP Pardubice targets the melanin pigment within the hair shaft and follicle. Light energy absorbed by melanin converts to heat, which is conducted along the hair shaft to the dermal papilla and germinal matrix of the follicle — the structures responsible for hair production. When the temperature in these structures reaches a therapeutic level, cellular damage occurs that prevents or significantly slows regrowth. This photothermal selectivity requires adequate melanin contrast: the treatment works best on dark-pigmented hair against a lighter skin background. Very fair, white, grey, or red hair contains insufficient melanin to absorb meaningful energy, limiting efficacy. Fitzpatrick V–VI skin types carry a risk of non-selective absorption (skin burns), making IPL less appropriate than Nd:YAG laser for very dark complexions. At MEDIKAP, the treatment is performed by trained clinic staff under the medical oversight of MUDr. Natálie Kaplanová. Treatment areas priced at 1 200 Kč each session. Shaving of the target area is required 24–48 hours before each session; waxing and plucking must be avoided for 4–6 weeks before treatment begins (the follicle must contain a hair shaft to conduct energy). Protective eyewear is worn by both patient and practitioner. Cool gel is applied and the IPL handpiece delivers pulses systematically across the treatment zone. A stinging or snapping sensation with warmth is typical. The hair follicle is temporarily stunned; the hair shaft typically sheds within 1–3 weeks post-treatment. Hair grows in three phases (anagen, catagen, telogen). IPL is only effective during anagen (active growth), which affects approximately 20–30% of follicles at any given time. Multiple sessions at 4–6-week intervals are required to treat follicles as they cycle into anagen. A minimum of 6–10 sessions per area is standard for significant permanent reduction; fine facial hair or hormonal hair may require maintenance sessions. Post-treatment, avoid heat (sauna, hot shower) and sun for 48 hours. Gentle moisturiser and SPF are recommended. Redness and follicular oedema (bumps) that resolve within 24 hours are normal.