The safety of IPL hair removal relies heavily on the contrast between skin tone and hair color. The Fitzpatrick skin typing system is the internationally recognized standard for risk assessment:
**Skin Type**
**Skin Characteristics**
**Reaction to Sun Exposure**
**IPL Suitability**
**Types I–II**
Very fair; burns easily, rarely tans
Redness, peeling
Ideal candidates; can tolerate higher energy levels
**Types III–IV**
Light brown to dark brown (common among Asians)
Reddens initially, then tans
Requires caution; long-wavelength filters are mandatory, and high energy levels must be avoided
**Types V–VI**
Dark brown to black
Rarely burns
Contraindicated or high-risk; highly prone to burns or pigment loss
**Clinical Risk Analysis:**
**Competitive Absorption:** The target of IPL is the melanin within hair follicles. If there is excessive melanin in the epidermis (i.e., dark skin tones), the light energy will be largely absorbed by the epidermis, resulting in epidermal burns while the hair follicles remain unheated.
**Parameter Adjustment:** For skin types III–IV, it is essential to select longer wavelengths (with a high proportion >800nm), a multi-pulse mode (to extend pulse intervals and allow the epidermis time to dissipate heat), and to begin with low energy settings.
**Contraindications:** IPL is strictly prohibited for individuals with recent sun exposure (within the past 4 weeks), those who are pregnant, those with photosensitive conditions (such as Lupus Erythematosus), or those currently taking photosensitizing medications (such as retinoids or certain antibiotics).
**Recommendation:** Before your first treatment, you must perform a patch test on the inner side of your arm. Observe the area for 24 hours; proceed with the full treatment only if no redness, swelling, or blistering occurs.