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IPL treatment schedule: weeks 1 to 12 explained
A consistent schedule is the difference between results and no results. On this page you'll find the full treatment schedule for the Nova One IPL, from your first session to the maintenance phase. Per phase: how often, which intensity, and what to expect. This schedule is based on the official Nova One IPL manual and matches the clinical user test in which more than 80% hair reduction was observed after 7 weeks.
The treatment schedule in four phases
A structured schedule for visible results. Follow the phases in order and adjust the frequency based on your skin's reaction and hair growth.
- Weeks 1–4Build-up2 times a week
- Weeks 4–8Reduce1 time a week
- Weeks 8–12Even out1 time every two weeks
- After 12 weeksMaintenance1–2 times a month, on an individual basis
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01
Build-up
Weeks 1–4
- Frequency2 times a week
- Per area1 full treatment per session (max 3×)
- GoalReach all hair follicles in different growth phases
What you notice
First 2–3 weeks: hair growth still visible (hairs in resting phase). From weeks 3–4: slight reduction noticeable.
Practical
- Shave the area to be treated (preferably 2 hours before the session or the day before).
- Cleanse and dry the skin, no cream, deodorant or make-up.
- Always start on intensity 1, build up gradually.
- Treat each area fully 1×. Optionally 2–3× directly after each other on the same area, provided no redness or irritation occurs.
- Switch between the Standard Head and Precision Head per area.
Never flash several times in a row on exactly the same spot; this can cause overheating and skin burns.
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02
Reduce
Weeks 4–8
- Frequency1 time a week
- Per area1 full treatment, optionally 2× with active regrowth
- GoalVisibly reduce hair growth
What you notice
Significant reduction in hair density. Remaining hairs become lighter and finer.
After ±7 weeks of consistent use, many users see more than 80% hair reduction, as established in the clinical test. Results vary per person, skin type and hair colour.
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03
Even out
Weeks 8–12
- Frequency1 time every two weeks
- Per area1 full treatment per session
- GoalConsolidate results, tackle stubborn hairs
What you notice
Considerably less hair than at the start. Remaining hairs are finer and lighter in colour.
One treatment per area is usually enough. Only treat the same area 2× if you actually notice stubborn hair growth.
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04
Maintenance
After 12 weeks
- Frequency1–2 times a month, on an individual basis
- Per area1 full treatment per area
- GoalMaintain long-term results
What you notice
How often you need to treat in the maintenance phase varies per person and area. Some users treat monthly, others only with noticeable regrowth.
Results vary per person, skin type and hair colour. If in doubt, always consult the user manual.
Schedule per area
Legs
- Time
- ±20 min per leg
- Level
- Start on 2, build up to 4–5
- Head
- Standard Head
Underarms
- Time
- ±5 min both underarms
- Level
- Start on 2, build up to 3–4
- Head
- Combination of Standard + Precision Head
Bikini line
- Time
- ±10 min
- Level
- Start on 1–2 (sensitive area), max 3
- Head
- Combination of Standard + Precision Head
Face (below the cheekbones)
- Time
- ±5 min
- Level
- Always 1–2
- Head
- Precision Head
Never above the cheekbones (eye safety).
Arms
- Time
- ±10 min both arms
- Level
- Start on 2, build up to 4
- Head
- Standard Head
Aftercare per session
The right care after every IPL session speeds up recovery and prevents skin irritation.
Straight after the treatment
- Cool the skin with a cool pack or aloe vera gel.
- Moisturise with a soothing cream.
Avoid
- Direct sunlight (use SPF 30+ or preferably 50+).
- Sauna, steam room, hot showers.
- Intense exercise and sweating.
- Scrubs, peels, retinol or acids.
When to consult a doctor
- Redness or swelling lasting longer than 72 hours.
- Blisters or burns.
- Pigment changes that don't disappear on their own.
Unsure about your skin's reaction? Pause use temporarily and consult a skin therapist or GP.
All about IPL treatments
What happens if I miss a week in my treatment schedule?
One missed week has a limited effect on your final result. Simply pick up your schedule where you were; don't double up sessions to catch up, this doesn't improve the result and increases the risk of skin irritation. With several missed weeks in a row, hairs can grow back undisturbed to full strength. In that case, restart in phase 1 (weeks 1–4) to hit all hairs in their growth phase. You'll find more background on how IPL works in the IPL hair removal guide.
Why do I need to treat for 12 weeks, can't it be faster?
IPL only works on hairs in the active growth phase (anagen phase). At any given moment only 20–30% of your hairs are in this phase; the rest are in a resting phase and don't respond to the treatment. A 12-week schedule ensures you hit every hair growth cycle at least once. Treating more often than 2× a week doesn't shorten this process; the hairs have to enter the growth phase themselves before IPL has an effect. The Nova One IPL is tuned to this rhythm.
Can I treat different areas on different days?
Yes. You don't have to do all areas in one session. Many users spread it out: for example legs on Monday, underarms and bikini line on Wednesday, face on Friday. What matters is that you keep to the schedule per area (2× a week in phase 1) and use the right interchangeable head: standard for large areas, precision for sensitive areas. Keep a log to track when you treated which area; especially useful in phases 2 and 3 when the frequency decreases.
How does the skin sensor work together with the ice cooling?
The two technologies complement each other. The skin sensor determines the right intensity for your skin tone; the ice cooling makes sure the session stays comfortable at that intensity. Together they make it possible to treat effectively without compromising on safety or comfort.
What if I still see hair growth after 12 weeks?
Remaining hair growth after 12 weeks is normal and not a sign that the treatment isn't working. In the clinical test >80% hair reduction was observed after 7 weeks, which means a minority of hairs remain. These hairs are usually finer and lighter in colour. Move on to the maintenance phase (1–2× a month). For extra comfort during treatment, the Nova One IPL's ice cooling also works in this phase, especially useful on sensitive areas with remaining hair growth, such as the bikini line.
Can I continue my schedule during holidays or summer?
Not recommended on tanned or sunburnt skin. Treating tanned skin can lead to pigment changes, burns or blisters. Rule of thumb: pause at least 2 weeks before and after sun exposure, and always use SPF 30+ between sessions. The skin sensor blocks automatically with a skin tone that's too dark, but this is no substitute for your own caution. Straight after every session it's important to soothe the skin well with aloe vera gel. Preferably plan your IPL course in autumn or winter.
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Recommended with this schedule: Nova One IPL
The device this schedule was written for. With ice cooling during every flash and a skin sensor that limits the setting per skin tone.
- ComfortIce cooling ±15 °C while flashing
- SafetyAutomatic skin sensor adjusts the intensity
- AreasLegs, underarms, bikini line and face (below the cheekbones)
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