How many IPL sessions do you really need? The honest number

You have had two sessions and you are still shaving. Is it working? Should you give up? Probably not. IPL works on a timetable your hair sets, not one you choose. Here is the real number, and why.

Why do you need more than one session?

Hair grows in cycles, and at any moment only part of your hair is in the active growth phase. IPL works on hairs in that phase, because the light targets the pigment in a growing hair and heats the follicle so it grows back finer and slower. Hairs that are resting during your session are not affected. Repeat sessions catch each new wave.

That is why one session can never clear an area, and why skipping or stretching the gaps slows your results.

How many sessions per area?

Hormonal areas, such as the chin and jawline, can need more sessions, followed by occasional top-ups. Everyone's hair is different, so these are typical numbers, not promises.

When will you see results?

• Sessions 1 and 2: treated hairs shed over 1 to 3 weeks. They can look like they are "growing". Let them fall out. Regrowth from resting hairs is still on its way.
• From session 3: most women notice less hair and slower regrowth.
• End of the course: hair grows back much less, finer and lighter.
• After the course: an occasional top-up keeps you smooth.

What slows your results?

• Waxing, plucking or epilating between sessions. IPL needs the hair root in place. Shave instead.
• Tanned skin. Sun, sunbeds or fake tan within 2 weeks of a session can mean lower settings, or your session being moved.
• Long gaps. Leaving months between sessions lets new hairs grow in untreated.
• Light hair. Blonde, red, grey and white hair respond little or not at all, because IPL needs dark pigment in the hair.
• Hormones. Facial hair linked to hormones can keep coming back. If you notice sudden new facial hair, mention it to your GP as well.

Is IPL permanent after the full course?

No treatment can promise every hair is gone forever. IPL gives long-term hair reduction: after a full course, hair grows back much less, finer and lighter, and most women only need a top-up now and then.

How long does a full course take?

Six sessions at 6-week gaps is around 7 months for a body area. That is why autumn is the best time to start if you want to be smooth by summer. We explain the timing in when to start IPL hair removal.

Should you book a course or single sessions?

Plan for a course either way: you will need several sessions. At Mirabell, single sessions start from €30 for the face, and every price option for each area is live on our IPL hair removal page, so you can compare before you book.

Where do you start?

With a patch test, at least 48 hours before your first session. At Mirabell it costs €20 and comes off your first session if you book within 30 days. It also tells us honestly whether IPL suits your skin and hair before you pay for a course. Wondering whether laser would be better for you? Read our honest guide to IPL or laser hair removal.

Book your patch test and we will plan your course with you.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. IPL gives long-term hair reduction, and results vary from person to person.