I'm a big fan of at home hair removal treatment sand am no stranger to devices, having tried practically every one on the market- yes, I am running out of places to hair remove!
I was a big fan of the original Philips Lumea home hair IPL treatment (you can read the update on it here) so when I heard they'd created a NEW Lumea I knew I had to try it. The main differences between the Philips Lumea and the Philips Lumea Precision is that it has a 'Precision attachment' which clips on to the light filter window at the front and allows you to treat the face. Yes, that's right you can zap away any unwanted moustaches etc at home- how helpful is that? It also has a bigger treatment window so you can get more hair at one time, and has a quicker flash reload- also saving you time between zaps.
The reason you can do this is because the attachment diffuses the light which means there's less power on super sensitive areas.
I realize not everyone is au fait with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology, so let me give you the lowdown- and the hands on review!
How IPL Works
IPL works by using light energy to help hinder hair growth. The flashes of light the Lumea emits turn into heat energy when applied to the skin, which penetrates the hair follicle and makes it shed. The hair follicle is then inhibited so regrowth is slower and eventually you'dd find you get permanent hair reduction.
Hair grows at three stages so it's important to get it at the correct ones in order to get maximum effect, which is why you may be a little patchy to begin with. Remember, this is permanent hair reduction- NOT REMOVAL- as you do need to keep topping up the areas to keep staying smooth.
Going hands on with the Lumea
Using the Philips Lumea Precision is very similar to using the old version. It fits comfortably in the hand, and the weight feels a little lighter. It looks like you're holding an oversized hairdryer when you use it, but it's easy to reach all areas and your hand feels comfortable. You do get a little hand ache after using it for over half an hour but a quick break and you're good to go again.
To begin with you do a skin test to ascertain that you're suitable and what level you should start at -they have 5! Once you've selected your level, you then shave the chosen area and press the head of the Lumea against the skin. It will only flash when all four points are in contact- a safety measure- and then you repeat to the surrounding areas. It gives you a green light when it's 'happy' and then you're good to go. As a guide, underarms take 5 minutes, legs about 20 minutes each.
The Lumea flash will surprise you as it's very very bright, but don't worry, it's not harmful. They've improved battery life which is amazing, as the original version used to die halfway through a session- tres annoying. I also love the fact that the Flash reloads quicker- makes all the difference. It takes around an hour to charge and I'm impressed that it's super quite as well- other systems can whir whilst charging.
The Lumea Precision is also packaged in a really cute carry case, which makes it easy to store. My first Lumea was unboxed so I don't know if it also had a case, but I like this one.
Overall, it was great to use, I loved the fact that it was more efficient and quicker, and though I don't need to use the facial attachment I think it's great for those that need it.
As for results?
Well, after 3 months of use every two weeks, my legs are looking pretty soft and sleek. I shave every week or so, and am still continuing my sessions for the next month and then will start doing it every 6 weeks or so to keep on top of things. A success all round!