yes,it is ipl.
and you are right, it wasn't pain-free, but it was not so bad. but the second one i used more painful, but still ok without the numbing cream.
find out what machine they are using.
if i were you i would quit wasting my time and money and go to a clinic with that uses real laser machines. you should be looking for somewhere with an Nd:yag laser if you are type IV or higher.