Do At-Home IPL + RF Devices Really Work? The Science Explained by Sivan Fishman Biochemistry Expert

Do At-Home IPL + RF Devices Really Work? The Science Explained by Sivan Fishman Biochemistry Expert

If you’ve ever bought an at-home hair removal or body firming device and wondered why the results felt… meh — you’re not alone. Today’s episode clears up the confusion with real science and real answers.

We’re joined by Sivan Fishman, VP of Global Compliance at Sensica. With over 14 years in biochemistry, medical science, and clinical research, Sivan oversees regulatory approvals, quality assurance, clinical studies, and safety standards across global markets.

Translation: she’s the person who makes sure these devices actually work — and are safe to use at home.

What Sensica Focuses On (and Why That Matters)

Sensica didn’t start as a trendy beauty brand. It was created as a sister company to professional in-clinic device manufacturers. The goal was simple: take technologies already used by professionals and adapt them for safe, effective home use.

Instead of copying what’s already on the market, Sensica develops its own technology, holds patents, and builds in safety features that protect users while improving results.

That foundation is what separates science-based devices from copycats.

IPL vs RPL: Why Not All Hair Removal Devices Are Equal

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. It works by sending light into the hair follicle, where melanin absorbs it, converts it into heat, and damages the follicle to reduce regrowth.

Here’s the catch: melanin is also in your skin.

Sensica uses RPL (Reactive Pulse Light), which adds a smart sensor that constantly checks two things:

  • Full skin contact (to protect your eyes)
  • Skin tone in real time

If the skin is too dark, freshly tanned, or has a tattoo, the device won’t flash. This protects the skin and ensures the energy goes where it should — the hair follicle.

Many cheaper IPL devices don’t have this level of control, which can lead to poor results or safety issues.

Why You Might Not See Results With Some IPL Devices

IPL only works when the skin reaches a target temperature — not just when light flashes.

Some devices never reach that temperature, which is why users don’t see real hair reduction. Others promise results on very light or white hair, which simply isn’t possible with IPL technology.

Sensica is upfront about limitations:

  • IPL does not work on very light, white, or gray hair
  • Results are gradual
  • Consistency matters

Honest claims are part of good science.

How At-Home RF Devices Reduce the Look of Cellulite

Cellulite isn’t a medical issue — it’s structural.

As we age:

  • Collagen production slows
  • Skin loses firmness
  • Circulation decreases
  • Lymphatic drainage slows

Radiofrequency (RF) devices work by gently heating deeper layers of the skin. That heat:

  • Contracts existing collagen fibers
  • Signals the body to produce more collagen
  • Improves circulation
  • Supports lymphatic drainage

The result is firmer skin and reduced appearance of cellulite over time.

It’s not instant, and it’s not permanent without maintenance — which is exactly why at-home devices make sense.

Why Unlimited Pulses Are a Big Deal

Many IPL devices limit how many flashes you get. That becomes a problem quickly when treating large areas like legs.

Sensica’s IPL devices offer unlimited pulses, meaning:

  • No replacement lamps
  • No extra costs
  • Use it for years
  • Keep using it when hair returns due to hormones, pregnancy, or supplements

That long-term flexibility is something salon treatments can’t offer.

At-Home vs In-Clinic Treatments: Which Makes Sense?

In-clinic treatments use higher energy — but higher energy doesn’t mean better results. What matters is reaching the correct temperature and maintaining it safely.

At home, you can:

  • Treat on your own schedule
  • Avoid appointment stress
  • Maintain results long-term
  • Spend less over time
  • Experience less discomfort

You’re paying once for a device you can keep using — instead of buying package after package.

What to Look for in an At-Home Device

According to Sivan, these things matter most:

  • Built-in safety sensors
  • Clinically tested technology
  • Honest claims
  • Clear instructions
  • Maintenance support
  • A real return policy

Sensica also offers consultations with licensed professionals and a 60-day money-back guarantee — which removes a lot of the risk.

Exclusive Beauty Lab Listener Discount

You can get 15% off Sensica devices with code BEAUTYLAB15 at buysensica.com.

Follow Sensica on Instagram for education, product updates, and behind-the-scenes science.

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