Homedics Duo Lite IPL-HH180 Manual

PRODUCT FEATURES

Power Adapter socket
When connecting power, the blue/white energy level indicator lights will flash on and turn off. The LED status indicator illuminates green.

Power Button
Press the power button to turn the unit on. Press and hold for 3 seconds to turn off. When the unit is on, the LED status indicator illuminates green and flashes. It defaults to energy level 1. Continuously press the power button to advance to energy levels 2/3/4/5. On energy level 1/2/3 (AFT) the energy level indicator illuminates blue and on energy levels 4/5 (IPL) the energy level indicator illuminates white.

Pulse Button
When the device is on and the energy level set. hold the device against the treatment area. When the treatment window has full contact with the skin and the green LED status indicator stops flashing, press the pulse button to begin treatment.

WHAT ARE AFT AND IPL?

Duo Lite is a home-use device for the permanent reduction of hair growth based on Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) that is found in salons across the globe. It works below the skin's surface and does not involve any cutting or pulling, reducing hair growth with minimal pain.
Duo Lite gives you the power to fight unwanted hair growth delivering long term results for perfectly smooth skin. The combination of both Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) in a single device provide highly flexible treatments that can be tailored perfectly to different parts of the body and to different skin tones. Choose between AFT FREEGLIDE™ which delivers up to 1 pulse per second for fast and easy treatments that are comfortable even on sensitive skin or single shot IPL treatments with the benefit of additional control when using higher power.

AFT FREEGLIDE™ METHOD
This is the method used on energy levels 1-3. Hold the pulse button down continuously and slowly move the device over the skin maintaining constant contact. In this mode it is necessary to repeatedly pass the device over the same area up to 5 times to ensure maximum coverage.
Note: The higher the level the slower you will need to glide the device. This is because the more energy released, the slower the pulse rate.

IPL SINGLE SHOT
This is the recommended method to use for high energy levels 4-5. With the treatment window in contact with the skin, press the pulse button and wait for the flash. Only shoot once before moving the device to the next treatment area ensuring there are no gaps or overlaps in the treated area, Wait for the status indicator LED to stop flashing (up to 3.5 seconds) before pressing the pulse button again.
Note: During both treatment methods you will see a bright flash, hear a popping noise and may feel a mild stinging and/or heat sensation

RECOMMENDED TREATMENT PLAN

With repeated treatments over time you can expect to see cumulative hair reduction. It is important to maintain the treatment schedule over the first 8-12 weeks followed by subsequent treatments as and when required. Previously dormant hair follicles may become active at any time (it is only possible to treat follicles in the growth phase). It is important to remember that results will vary with each individual and are not immediate, evaluate results after the 8-12 week treatment program is complete. Duo Lite gives you the power to fight unwanted hair growth delivering long term results for perfectly smooth skin.

For Body Treatment
Treatment plan depends on Skin-type/Energy Level selection. Having determined the appropriate energy level according to the Suitable Hair and Skin Types chart and/or spot test, follow these recommendations.

AFT FREEGLIDE™ - Energy Levels 1, 2 and 3
Due to the lower energy levels, treatments can be repeated up to twice a week on an on-going basis as required. This mode provides a comfortable treatment even in the most sensitive areas and with darker skin tones. More treatment is required to achieve similar results to Single Shot mode.

IPL SINGLE SHOT - Energy Levels 4 and 5
When using higher levels of energy, the sessions should be separated by a minimum of 2 weeks. Initially, it is recommended to treat every two weeks for 6 treatments and then complete additional treatments as required with at least a two week interval. This is a higher energy treatment, but can cause some discomfort as it exposes the skin to higher temperatures during treatment. It is not recommended to use single shot mode if you have skin type 5 (see suitable hair and skin type chart). The effect of the treatments will depend on skin type and hair color, the results are cumulative. As you continue to perform more treatments you should notice less hair regrowth.
Note: Due to hormonal or other physiological changes dormant hair follicles may become active and new hairs can appear – maintenance hair reduction sessions may be required from time to time.

For Facial Treatment
Treatment plan depends on Skin-type/Energy Level selection. Having determined the appropriate energy level according to the Suitable Hair and Skin Type chart and/or spot test, adhere to following recommendations. Follow the same procedure as detailed above; take care not to treat moles or the lips. Use white eyeliner or a piece of paper to protect delicate areas as necessary.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

• Hair growth cycle (Anagen, Catagen and Telogen). Anagen is the growth phase while Catagen and Telogen are the resting phases. Permanent hair reduction can only occur during the Anagen phase.
• Skin type (according to Fitzpatrick scale). Darker skin contains more melanin, which competes with the targeted hair for energy light absorption. When more light energy is absorbed in the skin there is more risk of adverse effects and the epidermis may get damaged.

HAIR COLOR AND SKIN TYPE TABLE
Treatment is very effective in skin types 1 to 4. For skin type 5, more treatment will be required to achieve the desired results. This is because greater part of the energy delivered by the unit, will be absorbed by the skin. It is not recommended to treat skin type 6 because most of the energy would be absorbed by the skin causing irritation and other adverse effects. Different parts of the body will respond differently to treatment, areas with high density of hair follicles will generally require more treatments before hair reduction is noticeable, i.e. underarms will need more treatments than the legs.
As a guide:

• Darker hair will respond better to treatment
• Thick hair will see results more quickly
• The greater the contrast between the skin and hair color (i.e. pale skin, dark hair) the faster and better the response.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A flash of light – it will not harm the eyes when the applicator is applied with full contact to the skin, on the recommended treatment areas, but avoid looking directly at the flash.
• Fan noise – Lower than that of a hair dryer.
• A pop noise with each pulse – whenever a pulse is activated.
• A sensation of warmth – from the light energy after each pulse.
• A mild stinging sensation - similar to that of being snapped with a rubber band.

PRIOR TO USE
Plug the power adapter into the unit's Power Adapter Socket and the other end into a household electrical outlet. The blue/white energy level indicator lights will flash on and turn off; the green status light will begin flashing.

SPOT TEST
The spot test is intended to determine your skin's reaction to the AFT/IPL treatment and help you select the optimal energy level for each treatment area. Do a spot test on each area you intend to treat 48 hours prior to the full treatment.

1. Prior to use, make sure your skin is shaved, clean and dry (free of any residue such as powders, creams, make-up, antiperspirants or deodorants).
   
   NEVER use flammable liquids such as alcohol or acetone to clean the skin before using the IPL device.
2. Set up the device following the instructions above.
3. Place the applicator treatment window on the required test area with full contact to the skin.
4. The device sets itself on the lowest energy level. Deliver the first pulse, on energy level 1, by pressing the pulse button. You will see a bright flash, hear a popping noise and you may feel a mild stinging or/and heat sensation.
5. Remove the applicator from the skin and place it on the next spot of the test area.
6. Use the power button to increase the energy level by 1. The energy level lights will light up blue (or white for levels 4 and 5) according to the selected energy level. Deliver the second pulse, on energy level 2, by pressing the pulse button.
7. Only if you feel comfortable repeat steps 5 to 6 until you have reached the maximum energy Level of 5. Stop the test once you do not feel comfortable, increasing the energy level increases the risk of adverse effects. If you see adverse effects such as severe redness or blistering stop the test immediately.
8. Wait 48 hours and examine the tested area. If the skin in the test area seems normal (no response or mild redness) you can proceed with a full treatment in the highest comfortable energy level you tested. If you see extreme redness, swelling or blistering, even in the low energy level settings do not do the full treatment in that area.
   Note: Do not treat full areas in energy levels you have not tested before.

Do not treat the tested area for at least 1 week after the spot test is done. Use the table below to make a note of the energy level that suits you for different areas you wish to treat.

Note: It is recommended to carry out the Spot test at least 48hrs prior to treatment to choose a safe treatment level for your skin.

1. Prior to use, make sure your skin is shaved, clean and dry (free of any residue such as powders, creams, makeup, antiperspirants or deodorants).
   
   NEVER use flammable liquids such as alcohol or acetone to clean the skin before using Duo Lite.
   
2. Press the power button to turn on the device. The LED indicator for energy level 1 will illuminate.
   
3. Use the power button to increase the energy level to reach the level determined in the spot test and according to your convenience. The energy level lights will light up blue (AFT) or white (IPL) according to the selected energy level.
   
4. Place the treatment window on the treatment area with full contact to the skin (the device will not trigger a pulse if there is not full skin contact).
   
5. Dependent on the energy level selected the device can be used in two ways:
   AFT FREEGLIDE™ method
   This is the method used on energy levels 1-3. Hold the pulse button down continuously and slowly move the device over the skin maintaining constant contact. In this mode it is necessary to repeatedly pass the device over the same area up to 5 times to ensure maximum coverage.
   Note: The higher the level the slower you will need to glide the device. This is because the more energy released, the slower the pulse rate.
   IPL Single shot method
   This is the recommended method to use for high energy levels 4-5. With the treatment window in contact with the skin, press the pulse button and wait for the flash. Only shoot once before moving the device to the next treatment area ensuring there are no gaps or overlaps in the treated area. Wait for the LED status indicator to stop flashing (up to 3.5 seconds) before pressing the pulse button again.
   Note: During both treatment methods you will see a bright flash, hear a popping noise and may feel a mild stinging and/or heat sensation.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all the chosen areas have been treated.The product should not be used for more than 30 minutes at one time. After 30 minutes are up, turn the device off and unplug from the wall.
   Note: If the device is left on but not used for approximately 3 minutes it will automatically turn itself off. If this has happened, press the power button to turn the device back on.

Male users:
Male body hair, especially on the chest, will generally require more hair reduction sessions.
Note: Do NOT use for male facial hair treatment

FACIAL TREATMENT

Always use the precision facial adapter included.
The facial skin is a sensitive area that requires special care and caution. Make sure you follow all instructions and safety precautions carefully in order to avoid adverse effects.

Fitting the facial adapter
Clip the precision facial adapter over the treatment window (aligning the curved edge with the button on the front of the device).

Safety Goggles
Always use safety goggles (included) when treating the face.

Start the treatment on energy level 1 and increase only if the treatment is comfortable.
The precision facial adapter included in the pack is specifically designed to make the treatment of smaller areas easier, such as the upper lip.

• Do not use the device on the face above the cheek line, around the eyes, eyebrows or eyelashes as this could cause serious eye damage.
• Do not use the device to treat hair growth in the nose and ears.
• Make sure you do a spot test 48 hours prior to treatment to determine suitability. The Spot Test can be carried out on a hair-free area such as below the ear or the side of the neck.
• Use a mirror to help you place the applicator correctly on the treatment area.
• Follow the instructions for treating specific areas.

NOTE: Facial Hair may be hormonal and as such, it can take more sessions to achieve a permanent hair reduction.

Upper Lip Treatment
Place the Applicator treatment area as indicated in the picture. Repeat up to 5 times on each area. Avoid the nostrils and lip, as these areas are more sensitive. If necessary mask the lips with a sheet of paper. You can "fold" your lip inward or press the lips together to achieve a better spread treatment area.

Cheek and Jaw Treatment
Place the Applicator treatment area as indicated in the picture. Treat each area up to 5 times, moving from one side of the jaw/cheek to the other.

Neck and Chin Treatments
Place the Applicator treatment area as indicated in the picture. Treat each area up to 5 times, moving from one side of the neck/chin to the other.
Note: The skin on lower third of the neck is more sensitive.

For Male Users
It is not recommend to use the product for facial treatment as this may change the facial characteristics and result in a feminine look.
NOTE: Premature ageing characteristics can emerge due to complete loss of facial hair of men.

POST FACIAL TREATMENT CARE

• Apply a calming lotion such as Aloe Vera.
• Avoid using peeling and bleaching creams or products for at least 24 hours as this irritates the treated skin.
• Avoid more than 15 minutes of direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks post treatment. If recently treated skin is exposed to sunlight in this time period, make sure to apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
• Do not wax or pluck hairs from treated areas.
• Remember! It may take up to 2 weeks for the hair to grow and fall out.

CLEANING AND CARE

before cleaning the unit, turn power off and unplug the unit.

TO CLEAN THE SURFACE
Clean the surfaces of the unit and the applicator head cover after every use with a dry, soft cloth.
NOTE: Never submerge the device or any of its parts in water.

TO STORE
Store in a safe, dry place, out of reach of children.

FAQ

Does AFT/IPL actually work?

Yes, these technologies are proven to achieve long-term hair reduction results. The use of light energy has been well documented for over 17 years in professional journals and by well-respected institutions.

Which body areas can the device be used on?

The device is designed to remove hair everywhere below the cheek line with the most commonly treated areas being the legs, underarms, arms and bikini line. Men should not use the device for facial treatment.

Is the device safe for use?

The device has been tested and approved by dermatologists and physicians to meet safety standards for a home use device. This electronic device must be used according to the instructions for use and user precautions.

What effect does the device have on different colored hair?
Duo Lite works best on dark hair or hair that contains more melanin. Brown and light brown hair will respond but typically will require more treatment sessions. Red hair may show some response. White, grey or blond hair show limited response. Nevertheless, some users have noted hair reduction after multiple treatment sessions.

Does it hurt to use the device?

Some users may experience discomfort (when dealing with thicker and darker hair) but this discomfort diminishes once the session is completed. When correctly used most users feel a slight mild stinging or/ and heat sensation at the time of the pulse light similar to that of snapping an elastic band.

When are results from the device achieved?

Results are not immediate, typically after two weeks many of the hairs in the treated area will simply fall out. As the hair grows in three different stages and only hairs in the active growth phase will be affected, multiple sessions are required to achieve the desired result. Results are cumulative; as you continue your treatment program you will notice less and less hair regrowth.

Will my hair grow back after a treatment?

It is not possible to successfully treat all hair follicles successfully in a single treatment. The results are cumulative and you will notice an improvement in the results the more treatments you complete. Successfully disabling hair follicles is dependent on the growth phase at the time of treatment, so a number of treatments over a period of time yield the most effective cumulative results. Follow the initial course of treatments until the end and touch up as often as necessary.

How long after sun exposure can the device be used?
It is recommended to wait four weeks after unprotected sun exposure. Tanned skin contains more Melanin that can increase the risk for adverse effects.

Should I pull the hair out as part of or after the treatment sessions?
No. within 3 weeks the hair will naturally and gradually fall out. Not all the hairs are affected by one treatment because of the hair growth cycle and multiple treatments are required to reach the desired result.

Is long term use of the device dangerous for my skin?
The use of light and laser energy has been well documented for over 18 years. No side-effects or damage from long term use has been reported during that time.

Can the device be used to remove facial hair such as chin hair?
Yes, the device may be used below the cheek line, on the upper lip, cheek, jaw, chin and neck. Do not use the device near your eyes! Men should not use the device for facial treatment. Always use the facial adapter provided.

Can men use the device?

Yes, AFT/IPL is suitable for men; however men should not use the device for facial treatment. Male body hair, especially on the chest will generally require more hair reduction sessions.

TROUBLESHOOTING

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
WHEN USING ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS, ESPECIALLY WHEN CHILDREN ARE PRESENT, BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD ALWAYS BE FOLLOWED, INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:

• Pregnant or nursing women must avoid the use of the device.
• Do not use the device if you have skin cancer or on areas at risk of malignancy.
• Do not use the device if you suffer from epilepsy.
• Do not use the device if you are/were under radiation therapy or chemotherapy within the past 3 months.
• Do not use the device if you have an active implant such as a pacemaker, insulin pumps, or similar devices.
• Do not use on damaged or broken skin or if you have a history of Herpes or Psoriasis outbreak in the treatment area.
• Do not use if you suffer from kelodial scar formation.
• Do not use if you have taken Tetracycline antibiotics within the last two weeks.
• Do not use if you have been taking medication with the following active ingredients within the last two weeks: Retinoids, Accutane and Retin-A.
• Do not use the device if you are photosensitive or have other diseases related to light sensitivity.
• Do not use if you suffer from metabolic conditions, such as diabetes.
• Do not use if you have had a skin peel or other skin resurfacing procedure within the last 6 – 8 weeks.
• Do not use the device if you were exposed to strong sunlight or an artificial tanning machine during the past 30 days.
• Do not use the device if you have dark spots such as large freckles, moles or blisters on the treatment area.
• NEVER use flammable liquids such as alcohol or acetone to clean the skin before using the device.
• Do not use the device on the face above the cheek line; around the eyes, eyebrows or eyelashes as this could cause serious eye damage.
• Do not use the device over mucous membranes as in the nose and ears
• The device should not be used on tattoos, permanent make up and intimate body parts such as nipples, genitalia or around the anus.
• If you see extreme redness of the skin, blistering, or burns STOP USE IMMEDIATELY!
• Do not look directly at the light coming from the applicator and the lamp cartridge.
• Do not use the device for any purpose other than hair reduction.
• Use of the device may cause temporary skin color changes.
• Do not apply continuous pulses (one after the other) with the applicator on any one spot on your skin during treatment. Doing so causes extensive heat to build-up and may result in possible skin damage or scarring.
• Do not return to a previously treated spot until 10 seconds have passed. Doing so causes extensive heat to build-up and may result in possible skin damage or scarring.
• Do not open or repair the device as it contains dangerous electrical components which may cause physical damage.
• Do not use the device with any additional accessories that are not part of its intended use.
• Always disconnect the power cord from the wall electrical outlet after use. Note: complete power shutdown is achieved only when the power cord is unplugged.

SAFETY CAUTIONS

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE.

• Do not use the device where it can come into contact with liquids (wet environment). This can cause electric shock.
• If the device is dropped into liquid, unplug it immediately. Do not remove the device from the liquid until unplugged – wait at least 2 minutes to remove. Do not use the device again, contact HoMedics Consumer Relations.
• Do not use the device if any parts show signs of damage. This may result in injury.
• Always keep the device away from the hair of your head to avoid accidental burns.
• Always keep the device away from objects other than the skin while treating (e.g. clothes, brushes, wires, cords, laces, etc) to avoid accidents.
• Do Not rinse any components of the device with any kind of liquid to avoid damaging the device.

• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities unless they have been instructed by a person responsible for their safety, according to the instructions for use.
• This appliance can be used by persons aged from 14 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision. The effects of use on under 18s has not been tested and is unknown.
• KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN'S REACH.

Do not use this appliance near bathtubs, showers, basins or other vessels containing water.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

When using Duo Lite according to the instructions for use, side effects are rare. Please ensure you treat using an appropriate energy level (See instructions for Use) to decrease the likelihood of experiencing side effects. However, every cosmetic procedure including the usage of home use devices may cause some degree of side effects:

PLEASE READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS CAREFULLY PRIOR TO USE.

• Duo Lite should ideally be used on the legs, underarms, bikini line, chest, stomach, arms and on the face below the cheek bones (not for use on the face by men).
• Do not use the device over piercing or any metal items such as earrings or jewelry.
• Do not use the device on tanned skin during 4 weeks after sun exposure (more than 15 minutes in direct sunlight without protection) as this can cause serious burns or skin injury.
• Avoid more than 15 minutes of direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks post treatment. If recently treated skin is exposed to sunlight in this period of time, make sure to apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreens.
• Do a spot test on a small patch of skin in the intended treatment area, 48 hours prior to first use of the IPL (See instructions for Use).
• Do not use the device on naturally dark skin (see instructions for use).
• Keep out of children's reach.
• The device is to be used for hair reduction purposes only. Do not use it for any other purpose.
• Use Duo Lite only according to the instructions for use.