Safe and Effective IPL & Laser Hair Removal at Sparx Laser Clinic in Winchester
If you are looking for a longer term solution to unwanted hair, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) hair removal at Sparx Laser Clinic in Winchester offers safe, effective and lasting results. We provide advanced hair removal treatments for men and women, helping to significantly reduce hair regrowth on most areas of the face and body. Using medical grade technology, our treatments are quick, comfortable and far more effective than shaving or waxing.
Sparx is a trusted Winchester laser clinic with extensive expertise in laser and IPL aesthetics. Salon Director Penny was one of the first practitioners in the UK to train in laser technology, and our highly qualified team use the Lynton Lumina, the UK’s leading laser and IPL system used in NHS and private hospitals. With a personalised course of treatments designed around the hair growth cycle, clients can expect visible, long lasting hair reduction delivered by experienced professionals.
Key Takeaways – IPL Laser Hair Removal at Sparx
- Laser and IPL hair removal uses controlled light energy to target the hair follicle, safely reducing hair growth at the root.
- Treatments are most effective during the active growth phase of the hair cycle, which is why a course of sessions is required.
- Most clients need six to eight treatments, spaced four to eight weeks apart, for long lasting hair reduction.
- Laser offers precise, targeted treatment, while IPL uses broader light and can also improve skin concerns such as redness and pigmentation.
- Benefits include smoother skin, fewer ingrown hairs, less irritation, and long term time and cost savings compared to shaving or waxing.
- At Sparx Winchester, treatments are delivered by highly trained specialists using medical grade Lynton technology suitable for all skin tones.
How Does IPL Laser Hair Removal Work?
IPL and laser hair removal works by delivering controlled light energy to the surface of the skin, which is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. This light energy travels down the hair shaft to the follicle, where it gently heats and disables the hair root, preventing future growth. Because hair grows in cycles, laser and IPL treatments are most effective when the hair is in its active growth phase, which is why multiple sessions are required.
For best results, most clients need an average course of six to eight treatments. We usually recommend sessions spaced four to eight weeks apart, depending on the treatment area, to target hair at each stage of the growth cycle. This approach results in a significant and long lasting reduction in visible hair, with smooth skin that improves over time.
What is the Difference Between Laser Hair Removal and IPL?
Laser hair removal works by targeting hair in its active growth phase using a highly focused beam of light. This precisely controlled light energy is absorbed by the pigment, or melanin, in the hair, allowing heat to travel directly to the hair follicle. The follicle is safely disabled without damaging the surrounding skin, resulting in a significant and long term reduction in hair growth.
IPL hair removal works in a similar way but uses a broad spectrum of light with multiple wavelengths, rather than a single focused beam. This means the energy is dispersed more widely across the skin, making IPL particularly suitable for lighter skin tones and finer hair. While slightly less targeted than laser, IPL remains an effective hair removal solution and is also widely used to treat skin concerns such as pigmentation, thread veins, facial redness and rosacea.
During your consultation at Sparx Laser Clinic in Winchester, our experienced practitioners will assess your skin and hair type and recommend the most suitable treatment option for your individual needs.
What are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal offers a long term solution to unwanted hair, with most clients experiencing a significant and lasting reduction in regrowth after a course of treatments. Unlike shaving or waxing, laser targets the hair follicle directly, helping to prevent ingrown hairs, razor burn and irritation while leaving the skin smoother, clearer and more even in texture. Treatments are precise, fast and suitable for many areas of the face and body, making them a convenient option for both men and women.
Although laser hair removal involves a higher initial cost than temporary methods, it can save time and money in the long run by reducing the need for ongoing hair removal. Sessions are generally well tolerated, often described as a mild stinging sensation, and there is little to no downtime afterwards. With long lasting results that can last months or years, laser hair removal also boosts confidence by delivering consistently smooth skin without the hassle of daily maintenance.
What Is The Hair Growth Cycle and Why Does This Matter?
Hair grows in a natural cycle made up of different stages. At any one time, around 85 to 90 percent of the hair on the body is in the active growth phase, known as the anagen phase, while the remaining hairs are in the resting or telogen phase. Hair can remain in the anagen phase for several years before entering a short resting period, after which it sheds and new hair begins to grow.
Laser and IPL hair removal is most effective when the hair is in the anagen phase. During this stage, the hair follicle sits closest to the surface of the skin and contains the highest levels of melanin, allowing the laser energy to be absorbed more efficiently and the follicle to be safely disabled. Because not all hairs are growing at the same time, a course of treatments is needed to target hairs as they move from the resting phase into active growth, ensuring the best possible long term hair reduction.
Why Choose Sparx for IPL Laser Hair Removal in Winchester?
Sparx Winchester Laser Clinic is widely recognised for its expertise in IPL and laser hair removal, with a highly trained team and a long established reputation for clinical excellence. Our founder and Salon Director, Penny Kimpton, was one of the first practitioners in the UK to train in laser technology in 2006. With a background in Electronic Engineering before retraining in beauty, Penny brings a rare depth of technical knowledge and experience, which she passes on to the Sparx team to ensure the highest standards of safety and results. All our laser technicians are also trained to the highest standards by Lynton, so you can be assured you in safe hands at Sparx.
Using the advanced Lynton Lumina system, we are able to offer both IPL and ND:Yag laser hair removal, allowing us to safely and effectively treat all skin tones. The Nd laser is widely recognised as the safest option for darker skin due to its longer wavelength, which reduces melanin absorption in the skin while targeting the hair follicle with precision. This medical grade technology delivers excellent clinical results alongside enhanced comfort, ensuring effective treatments you can trust.
Book Your Laser Hair Removal Treatment at Sparx Aesthetics Clinic Winchester
Take the first step towards smoother, long lasting results with laser hair removal at Sparx Winchester. Book a consultation today to discover a safe, comfortable treatment tailored to your individual skin and hair type.
Before starting treatment, we carry out a thorough consultation to assess your suitability and create a personalised treatment plan. This includes a review of your medical history and plenty of time to answer any questions, so you can feel fully informed and confident in your decision.
Ensuring Your Safety
Your safety is always our top priority. As part of your consultation, a small patch test will be carried out to check your skin’s response to the laser. Your treatment plan will be designed around the hair growth cycle, with sessions typically scheduled at four to six week intervals to achieve the best possible long term hair reduction.
Book an appointment at our Winchester Clinic by calling 01962 878979 or you can book online.
Not sure laser hair removal is for you? We also offer Waxing and Threading hair removal.
IPL & Laser Hair Removal FAQs
Which areas of the body can be treated by laser hair removal?
«Nearly all areas of the body can be treated with laser, including the face, underarms, arms, legs, back, stomach, bikini line (even FULL Hollywood), chest, fingers and toes and more.
If the hair is thick enough, and it's not too light in colour, it can be treated. Book a consultation for more information on the treatment areas we can cover.
What can I expect at my IPL laser hair removal treatment?
«We ask all patients to shave the treatment area before their appointment. We will then apply a cool gel and the laser applicator will be positioned gently against the skin. Pulses of intense light are then delivered into the hairs, destroying the follicles and preventing re-growth. The applicator is then moved to the neighbouring area of skin and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated.
During the treatment, you ay see or feel the hair pop out of the follicle and there may be a slight smell of burnt hair. Don't worry, this is normal! These are a few of the things we look out for during treatment, so we know we are using the correct setting to kill the hairs.
How long does each treatment take?
«Treatments generally take from as little as 10 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area to be treated. We will advise you on what to expect at your initial consultation.
Does IPL laser hair removal hurt?
«Sensations vary from patient to patient but it is often described as “a flick of an elastic band”. Typically no anaesthesia is required and most clients describe the discomfort as moderate and tolerable.
How soon will I see the results from a laser hair removal treatment?
«With any permanent hair reduction treatment you can usually expect to see full results in 4 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on your skin and hair colour. The hair follicles are damaged by heat during the treatment but the hairs remain in the follicles. The dead hairs shed after 1 – 3 weeks as the epidermis (skin) renews. During this period the hairs may seem to ‘grow’ as they are pushed out by the new epidermis.
How many treatments are needed?
«The average number of treatments you need for optimal results is between 8 and12 sessions.
There are a variety of factors which contribute to the number you will need personally. Book a consultation and we will develop a personalised treatment plan for your own particular circumstances.
Will Energy Drinks Interfere with My Laser or IPL Treatment?
«Laser technology is becoming safer than ever and at Sparx Beauty Salon in Winchester our trained beauty therapists provide effective treatments to suit all your beauty needs.
Recently, there have been concerns raised in the news that the consumption of energy drinks can interfere with the effectiveness of your IPL or laser treatments. The issue reported is that the high levels of caffeine in energy drinks can constrict the superficial blood vessels under the skin, making the treatments less effectiveness.
For your peace of mind, we would advise you avoid consuming energy drinks for 48 hours prior to your treatment. Please remember that the risk of any problems is very low and only if you have consumed excessive amounts of energy drinks.
Why do we need multiple laser hair removal treatments to achieve results?
«Our hair grows in 3 different stages and not all our hair is in the same stage at the same time. This means that when an area is treated with the laser, only a percentage of hair follicles will be affected. This means that in order to effectively reduce your unwanted hair, multiple treatments will be required.
What type of results would I expect from IPL laser hair removal?
«Following treatment you can expect to see a gradual decrease in the thickness and amount of hair present. Compared to other types of hair removal, you should also see a decrease in stubble, rashes and in-grown hairs.
Are there any side effects to laser hair removal?
«The skin may be red immediately after treatment and the hair follicles may be swollen and bumpy but this usually subsides within a few hours. Unwanted reactions are rare but may include a small blister or temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
«We suggest that you book a series of treatments and prices will depend on the area to be covered. Book a consultation and we can discuss the best approach in more detail and assess the varying factors more accurately after which we can provide you with a personalised quote.
How long should I leave between laser hair removal sessions?
«Body hair removal treatments are carried out every 6 -8 weeks, facial hair treatments are required every 4 - 6 weeks.
We leave this this time between treatments to allow the hair sufficient time to return to its growth stage. You don't need to do anything to the area between treatments.
Can I shave between laser hair removal treatments?
«Yes, you can continue to shave between treatments if you need to, until your course is complete. Then you can ditch your razors for good!