Silk'n SensEpil Profile

Silk'n SensEpil is a device cleared by the FDA for permanent hair reduction that is designed for home use on the body (excluding the genitals), but can be used on the face from the cheekline down. It requires multiple treatments to have the best results.

How Does Silk'n SensEpil Work?

This device applies Home Pulsed Light? (HPL?) technology, using optical energy to disable hair growth. The hair shaft needs to absorb this light energy and then transform it to heat.

Who Can Use It?

Those with a naturally dark skin color cannot use this device because burns, blisters and/or changes in skin color can result. Different than the first Silk'n released. The SensEpil has a built in skin sensor tests the skin as you apply it. The light will not zap if the skin is too dark.

So for instance, your natural skin tone falls within the safe zone. But you've been in the sun and have a dark tan on your lower legs, but not your upper legs. On your lower legs, however, a light will appear on the console, letting you know your skin is too dark in that area, and the system will not work there.

Dark hair responds the best. Shades of brown may also respond to the system, but typically require more treatments. Red hair isn't totally ruled out here, but possibly may benefit. White, gray or blond hair doesn't usually respond although the company does mention that some have noted results after multiple treatments.

What Are the Changes From the First Model?

The biggest change is the skin sensor built right into the at home device. The original Silk'n didn't have any way of checking the skin tone, so you had to purchase through a doctor or complete a questionnaire to buy one on-line.

The device still uses the same Home Pulsed Light? (HPL?) technology to disable hair growth, so it will still treat hair in the same way. Because of the skin sensor, Silk'n SensEpil takes different cartridges than the first model.

Cosmetic changes have been made. Silk'n SensEpil is pink, easier to hold in your hand and lays flat for storage (as opposed to straight up for the original). When in use, there is a fan or hair-dryer like sound that is a bit quieter than the first model.

Does Silk'n SensEpil Hurt?

The feeling can be likened to a slight sensation of heat. Everyone has their own tolerance to pain/discomfort, but other factors come into play. You might feel more pain if you have sensitive skin, or very dark or thick hair. The first time using is usually the most uncomfortable, and then subsides with further uses for most people.

Silk'n SensEpil has five settings that you can adjust to your sensitivity. Using the highest setting will also produce more heat, and give you better results.

How Effective Is It?

Hair grows in different stages: growing, resting and shedding. Because all of the hair isn't on the same stage at any given time, multiple treatments are needed to get the hair in the growth phase, for it to be most effective. The company recommends treatments spaced every two weeks for the first three to four uses. If hair has grown back after these first three to four treatments, then additional treatments should be given until the desired results are achieved.

According to the Silk'n hair removal clinical study of 150 females using the hair removal system these were the average hair reduction results after 6 months "41% in the underarms, 54% on the legs, 43% in the bikini area and 52% on the arms."

Reviews:

• My personal experience using Silk'n on my legs and underarms in Part I.

How Much Does It Cost?

The suggested retail price is $499 (buy direct). A lamp cartridge that comes with the system has a life of about 750 shots. "That should cover one treatment session for two legs, two arms, two underarms and bikini line for an average body size" according to the instructions booklet. The control panel displays warning lights when you are close to or have reached the 750 shot limit. Replacement lamp cartridges retail for $49 (buy direct). Depending on the how many areas (and their size) you're treating, you will need anywhere from one to seven disposable lamp cartridges in the first year.

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