How to Use Philips Lumea IPL Device Correctly (Step-by-Step Guide for Best Results)

Introduction:

Buying a Philips Lumea IPL device is only half the job.
To get real, long-lasting hair reduction, you must use it correctly and consistently.

Most people who say “IPL didn’t work for me” usually made one of these mistakes:

• Skipping sessions

• Using wrong intensity

• Not preparing skin properly

• Expecting instant results

This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to use Philips Lumea safely and effectively, whether you’re treating legs, face, underarms, or sensitive areas.

👉 If you’re still choosing a model, see our buyer guide here:
Best Philips Lumea Model in Pakistan – Buyer Guide

👉 View all available models:
Philips Lumea IPL Devices in Pakistan – Lumia London

Step 1: Check If IPL Is Suitable for Your Skin & Hair

IPL works best when there is contrast between hair color and skin tone.

Best Candidates for IPL

• Light to medium skin tones

• Dark brown or black hair

Less Effective If You Have

• Very light blonde, grey, or red hair

• Very dark skin tones (device may block flashes)

Philips Lumea includes a skin tone sensor that prevents unsafe flashes, so if the device doesn’t flash, it’s protecting your skin.

This is normal and not a defect.

Step 2: Shave the Area Before Treatment

This step is non-negotiable.

Before using Philips Lumea, you must:

• Shave the treatment area

• Do NOT wax or pluck

Why?

IPL targets hair below the skin surface.
If hair is visible above skin, the light energy gets wasted on surface hair instead of the root.

Shaving ensures:

• Energy goes directly to follicle

• Better results

• Less skin irritation

Step 3: Clean and Dry Your Skin

Before each session:

• No lotion

• No oil

• No deodorant (for underarms)

• No makeup (for face)

Skin should be:

• Clean

• Dry

• Free from products

This improves light penetration and reduces risk of irritation.

Step 4: Choose the Right Intensity Level

Philips Lumea devices usually offer 5 intensity levels.

You should:

• Start at recommended level suggested by sensor

• Increase gradually if comfortable

You should feel:

• Mild warmth or light snap

You should NOT feel:

• Burning

• Sharp pain

Higher intensity = better results, but only if your skin tolerates it.

Never force maximum settings if your skin reacts.

Step 5: Use the Correct Attachment for Each Area

This is where Philips has an advantage over many other devices.

For Legs and Arms

Use:

• Body attachment (large window)

Benefits:

• Faster coverage

• Even light distribution

For Face (Upper Lip, Chin)

Use:

• Face attachment with filter

This protects delicate facial skin and prevents pigmentation issues.

Philips Lumea Face Attachment

For Bikini & Underarms

Use:

• Curved or sensitive area attachment

This improves contact and comfort.

👉 Models like Philips Lumea BRI955 and 9900 Series include full attachment sets:

Philips Lumea BRI955

PHILIPS Lumea BRI 99OO SERIES

Step 6: Flash Method – Slide or Stamp?

Philips allows two methods:

Slide Method

• Keep button pressed

• Move device slowly across skin

Best for:

• Legs

• Arms

Stamp Method

• Press, flash, lift, move

Best for:

• Underarms

• Bikini

• Face

Make sure flashes slightly overlap, so you don’t miss spots.

Step 7: Follow the Correct Treatment Schedule

IPL works according to hair growth cycles.

You cannot speed this up.

Initial Phase

• One session every 2 weeks

• For first 4–5 sessions

Maintenance Phase

• Once every 4–8 weeks

Skipping sessions = slower results.

Consistency is what actually kills hair follicles.

When Will You See Results?

Typical timeline:

• After 2 weeks → slower growth

• After 4 weeks → patchy regrowth

• After 8 weeks → major reduction

Most users achieve 80–90% hair reduction with proper use and maintenance.

This is why IPL is called long-term hair reduction, not instant hair removal.

Common Mistakes That Reduce Results

Let’s save you months of frustration.

❌ Not Shaving Before Treatment

Light gets wasted on surface hair instead of follicle.

❌ Skipping Sessions

Hair cycles keep resetting, so progress slows.

❌ Using Too Low Intensity

Lower energy = weaker follicle damage.

❌ Using Wrong Attachment

Sensitive skin gets irritated, or energy isn’t focused properly.

Follow the system and results come naturally.

Is Philips Lumea Safe for Regular Use?

Yes, when used properly.

Built-in safety features:

• Skin tone detection

• UV filters

• Attachment-based light control

Mild redness after treatment is normal and usually fades quickly.

If you experience:

• Blistering

• Long-lasting redness

Stop and reduce intensity or consult a dermatologist.

Can Men Use Philips Lumea?

Yes, for:

• Chest

• Arms

• Legs

• Back

Not recommended for:

• Beard or facial hair in men (too dense)

Hair density affects IPL performance, so results may vary in thick male hair areas.

Philips Lumea vs Salon Laser for Maintenance

Many users:

• Start with clinic laser

• Then switch to Philips Lumea for maintenance

Why?

Because regrowth still happens after laser, and IPL is perfect for:

• Keeping hair under control

• Avoiding repeat clinic costs

We compared full costs here:
👉 Philips Lumea Price in Pakistan – Is It Worth the Cost vs Salon Laser

Which Philips Lumea Model Is Best for Beginners?

If you’re new to IPL:

Best Beginner Choice

👉 Philips Lumea BRI923

• Face + body treatment

• Good performance

• Easier learning curve

👉 View product:

Philips Lumea BRI923

Full Feature Choice

👉 Philips Lumea BRI955

• Includes sensitive attachments

• Faster sessions

• Best long-term option

👉 View product:

Philips Lumea BRI955

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Philips Lumea Every Week?

No. IPL works best when hair is in growth phase. Weekly use won’t improve results and may irritate skin.

Should I Moisturize After Treatment?

Yes, after a few hours. Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.

Can I Use It in Summer?

Yes, but avoid sun exposure before and after treatment. Tanned skin increases risk of irritation.

Do I Need to Replace the Lamp?

No. Lamp life usually lasts for years of normal home use.

Final Tips for Best Results

If you want results, do these three things:

1. Be consistent with sessions

2. Use correct attachments

3. Follow intensity recommendations

IPL rewards discipline, not shortcuts.

Where to Buy Original Philips Lumea in Pakistan

IPL devices are not products where you gamble on authenticity.

At Lumia London, you get:

• Original Philips devices

• Correct attachments

• Model-wise options

• Reliable customer support

👉 Browse Philips Lumea IPL Devices in Pakistan:

Buy once, use for years, and finally stop planning your life around hair removal.