Philips Lumea 9900 Pro: Is IPL the best hair removal method for you?

IPL vs other hair removal methods: Which is right for you?

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a long-term hair removal method designed to reduce hair growth over time.¹ If you’re looking to spend less time shaving, trimming, waxing or plucking, IPL could be a convenient choice - especially if you want smooth skin from home.

Philips Lumea IPL devices are designed for at-home use, helping you achieve long-lasting results without regular salon appointments. The Philips Lumea 9900 Pro delivers more than 80% hair reduction in just two sessions*, making it Philips Lumea’s best model for smooth skin.

Still weighing up your options? Here’s how IPL compares with laser hair removal, shaving, trimming and waxing.

IPL or laser hair removal

If you’re choosing between IPL or laser hair removal, the main difference is how and where the treatment is usually carried out. Laser hair removal is typically performed in a salon or clinic by a trained professional, while Philips IPL devices are designed for convenient use at home.

Both methods target the hair follicle to reduce hair growth over time, but they suit different needs and routines:

• Laser hair removal is ideal if you prefer professional treatments or enjoy the salon experience
• IPL with Philips Lumea offers more flexibility, allowing you to complete sessions at home, whenever it suits you

If convenience and long-term smoothness on your own terms are important, IPL is often the more flexible option, while laser can be a good choice if you prefer treatments carried out by a professional.

IPL vs shaving

Shaving is one of the quickest and easiest ways to remove body hair, making it a popular option when you want immediate results. However, it only cuts hair at the skin’s surface, so regrowth can appear within a day or two, often leading to visible stubble.

When comparing IPL vs shaving, it’s really about short-term convenience versus longer-lasting results:

• Shaving removes hair instantly but requires frequent upkeep
• Ongoing IPL use means smoother skin for longer, with less need to shave

With the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro, you can enjoy up to 5 years of smooth skin**, helping you spend less time reaching for your razor before getting ready.

IPL vs trimming

Trimming is a good option if you want to neaten hair without removing it completely. Because it cuts hair above the skin’s surface, trimming can also reduce the risk of nicks and cuts compared with shaving.² It’s often used for more delicate areas, such as the bikini line.

When comparing IPL vs trimming the difference comes down to the finish and long-term results:

• Trimming keeps hair tidy but doesn’t leave skin feeling completely smooth
• Regular IPL use means less frequent maintenance and smoother-looking skin

If you’re looking to cut down on regular hair removal while achieving a long-lasting smooth finish, Philips Lumea IPL can be a better fit. Side effects of IPL are rare and not often severe, with the most common being temporary redness or mild discomfort during treatment.¹

IPL vs waxing

Waxing removes hair from the root, so results usually last longer than shaving. However, many people find waxing painful, and it can cause temporary redness, dryness or inflammation.³ It also needs to be repeated regularly as the hair grows back.

When comparing IPL vs waxing the difference comes down to repeated removal versus long-term reduction:

• Waxing removes visible hair from the root but requires ongoing appointments or at-home treatments
• IPL works over time to reduce hair growth at the root

While an IPL device may be a higher upfront investment than a single waxing session, it may become more convenient over time. With regular use, Philips Lumea can help you maintain smoother skin at home, without needing frequent salon visits or repeat waxing sessions.

When to choose the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro

Choose the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro if you want efficient, long-term hair reduction with smart features that help tailor each session to your skin. Its SmartSkin sensor recommends the most comfortable intensity for your skin tone, giving you extra confidence from the first flash.

It’s also a strong choice for at-home IPL beginners. With real-time audio and visual guidance, the device helps you learn as you go, giving personalised feedback throughout your IPL hair removal routine. You’ll benefit from:

• Skin-contact guidance: Helps you position the device correctly for more effective flashes and better results.
• Real-time motion guidance: Guides your movement as you glide the IPL device across different areas of the body.
• Smart progress reports: Reviews your technique, offers personalised tips and recommends a treatment timeline to help you stay on track.

Thanks to the built-in smart features, IPL sessions are 30% faster*** with the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro, making it a quick, convenient and easy-to-use choice for at-home hair removal.

Like all Philips IPL models, the Philips Lumea 9000 Pro includes specially designed attachments for different areas of the face and body. Use the curved attachment for intimate and sensitive areas, while the facial attachment with UV filter supports safe and effective facial hair removal.

FAQs: IPL hair removal

What’s Philips Lumea’s best model?

All Philips Lumea IPL devices are designed to deliver fast, effective hair reduction at home. However, the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro is the most advanced model. It features intelligent real-time coaching to guide you through each session and can achieve over 80% hair reduction after just two treatments*, helping you see results quickly and confidently.

Is IPL hair removal painful?

IPL hair removal isn’t typically painful. You may feel a mild sensation during use, often described as a warm feeling or a light snapping sensation, but it shouldn’t be uncomfortable.

If you do experience discomfort, you can easily adjust the intensity using the SmartSkin sensor on your Philips Lumea 9900 Pro, which helps ensure the treatment stays comfortable while remaining effective.

No matter which hair removal technique you choose, make sure you’re investing in the right tools for safe grooming that looks after your skin. If you’re ready to give IPL a go, opt for the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro for the most advanced IPL hair removal.

With Lumea Try & Buy, you can spread the cost of the Philips Lumea 9900 Pro over 12 months with complimentary home delivery. Take your time to see if it’s right for you - if not, return it free of charge, or keep it after 12 months or pay it off sooner if you prefer.

*Median results on legs

**With ongoing monthly touch-ups following the indicated treatment schedule

***Vs S9000 with body attachment