When you have trouble with persistent razor bumps or a coarse texture, having silky smooth skin can sometimes depend on how you go about it. Two of the most popular options are using an exfoliator or an IPL device. However, they each work very differently.
Here is how exfoliation vs. IPL compares in ingrown hairs, congested skin, and uneven texture.
Ingrown Hairs: The Root vs. The Surface
Ingrown hairs happen when hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin, often triggered by shaving or waxing. For long-term options, IPL treatment is the best option. IPL emits light energy that targets the melanin in the hair follicle, heating it up in order to stunt any future hair growth. Over time, hair growth reduces, reducing any opportunities for ingrown hair to form.
Exfoliation, on the other hand, acts as your immediate rescue squad. Chemical exfoliants like salicylic or glycolic acid and physical scrubs sweep away the dead skin cells trapping the hair. While it helps release hairs that are already stuck, the downside is that it does not stop new ones from growing back.
Which Is Better For Congested Skin
Congested skin leads to blocked pores, which can include blackheads. There is also an excess buildup of sebum and dead skin cells.
- Exfoliation is the winning option here. The BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), like salicylic acid, will penetrate deep into the pore walls due to their oil-soluble properties. This helps to break down the oil and dirt that’s blocking the pores.
- IPL treatment will have no effect on general congestion. As it only works on pigmentation (melanin) within the hair follicles or blood vessels, it won’t remove any sebum, blackheads, or oil build up in the pores.
Texture: Rough skin or dark spots around hair follicles.
If your skin is rough and you have patches of unevenness, small bumps, or dark spots known as ‘strawberry legs,’ it’s important to understand how exfoliation and IPL treatment for ingrown hair can help your particular skin type and which treatment is more suited for you.
If you have rough, dull skin, exfoliate. This will help by breaking the bond between dead skin cells. Using alpha hydroxy acids or AHA will speed up your skin’s cell renewal process and immediately make your skin feel smoother and softer.
Indirectly, IPL will improve your skin texture. As you are no longer having to shave or wax every day, it will prevent damage to your skin from constant friction, irritation, and tiny tears. It will also remove the dark, shadowy appearance caused by the hair underneath your skin.
How to Build Your Routine
You don’t have to stick to just one of these; they can work together beautifully!
- Chemical exfoliation a couple of times a week will help keep pores clear and skin smooth.
- IPL regularly, according to your device or provider’s schedule, will help reduce hair growth permanently.
Be mindful of how often you do this to avoid irritation. Don’t do any exfoliation on the same day as your IPL treatment. Allow 24-48 hours between treatments to ensure your skin barrier is protected. You can head over to any advanced skin treatment center to get a better idea of what is best for your skin type.
Final Thoughts
Combining targeted exfoliation with consistent IPL treatments gives you the ultimate route map to clear, flawless skin. While IPL treatment works beneath the surface to stop stubborn bumps at the root, exfoliation containing only natural, clean ingredients will leave your skin feeling silky smooth and glowing.
Get started on your journey to healthier and more radiant skin. To understand which is better for you—exfoliation vs. IPL for ingrown hairs—head over to Advanced Naturals Beauty in Moonee Ponds. We have a range of high-quality botanical skincare products that will make your skincare journey smoother and healthier. Contact us today to get a 10% discount on every order.