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Experts explain the safety and proper use of these at-home devices.
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Looking to achieve smooth, hair-free skin? When it comes to removing pesky body hair at home, there are plenty of different methods and that get the job donefrom traditional shaving to sugaring to using some of the best hair removal products. But these methods can result in unpleasant side effects, like bumps and burns. They also rarely offer long-lasting results. Enter: the best at-home hair removal devices, which help get rid of unwanted hair for extended periods of time without a trip to the salon.
While performing laser hair removal at home can work, its important to note that youll get the best (and safest!) results by seeking a dermatologist to perform an in-office treatment. Home laser hair reduction treatments appear to take longer to work than in-office laser hair removal treatments, meaning that more treatments over a longer period would be required for a home treatment, explains Oma Agbai, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, health sciences associate clinical professor of dermatology and director of multicultural dermatology and hair loss disorders at the University of California, Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, California.
Meet the experts: Oma Agbai, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Northern California; Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City; and Brendan Camp, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
If you plan to try this at home, experts recommend talking to a board-certified dermatologist who can help guide you through the process of at-home laser hair removal, as well as assess any adverse effectsespecially if you have a history of skin cancer. Its also important to note that many at-home machines dont use lasers at all, Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, says. Different technologies may be found in at-home devices, she explains. IPLalso known as intense pulsed lightis a light-based therapy that emits multiple wavelengths of light. It is using heat to destroy the hair follicles and many of the at-home devices utilize this technology.
Our top picks
- 1
Best Overall At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Tria Laser Hair Removal Device 4X
$499 at WalmartRead more - 2
Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for Light Skin Tones
Mismon Permanent Hair Removal Device
$190 at AmazonRead more - 3
Best Value At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Nood The Flasher 2.0
$169 at trynood.comRead more - 4
Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for Face
Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System
$449 at NordstromRead more - 5
Best Cooling At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Ulike Air 3 IPL Hair Removal Device
$239 at AmazonRead more
To help you find the right at-home laser hair removal product for your specific needs, weve rounded up the best picks as recommended by experts (and highly-rated by users who have tried them first hand). Ahead, find the best devices for at-home laser hair removal to get you one step closer to smooth, hair-free skin.
$499 at WalmartShop at planetbeauty.com
Credit: Tria
Pros
- Uses laser to target the hair follicle
- Easy to use
- Suitable for use on the face
Cons
- Pricey
This FDA-cleared device uses laser energy to target the hair follicle. In general, after at least eight treatments, many will achieve a substantial reduction in hair regrowth, offering great visible results for an at-home device, says Dr. Garshick. Additionally, it is easy to use and can also be used on the face. The device offers five different energy levels to customize your treatment, and it comes with a LED display that shows the level, pulse counter, and battery charge.
What the reviews say: This is a life changer! I didnt think this would work so well, but I see a dramatic difference, and Ive only had this for a little over a month, wrote one Amazon shopper. Now my skin feels super smooth for the whole day and night, and into the next morning, and the hair seems finer and less of it...Its worth every penny.
| Technology | Laser |
|---|---|
| Levels | 5 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, face |
$190 at Amazon
Credit: MisMon
Pros
- Longer lifespan than many
- Suitable for use on the face
- Built-in skin sensor
Cons
- Not as effective on darker skin tones
Using IPL technology, this device incorporates a built-in skin sensor that can recognize the color of the skin to ensure the device is safe for use, though is generally best suited for those with lighter skin types and darker hair. It can be used on both the body and the face, Dr. Garshick says. The cartridge also has enough flashes for up to five years of treatment, making it both affordable (compared to some other options) and long-lasting.
What the reviews say: This really works. Used to treat my lower back for swimsuit season [and] after just a few treatments I noticed a significant thinning in the hair that grew back, said one reviewer. After a couple of months, only light peach fuzz is growing where coarse black hair grew before. The product works and it works well. Excellent value for the money compared to similar devices.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 5 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, face |
Now 37% Off
$169 at trynood.com$157 at Walmart$229 at Blue Mercury
Credit: nood
Pros
- Seven intensity levels to customize your treatment
- Quick treatments
- Great refund and replacement policy
Cons
- No precision head attachment
Vetted by the Good Housekeeping Institute, this device impressed Beauty Lab experts with its compact size, its seven different intensity levels to choose from based on your skins sensitivity, and the on-off button feature, which not all IPL devices have (many turn on as soon as you plug them in.) However, since it doesnt come with a precision attachment for smaller spots, the bright light of the flashes escapes from the sides, which could potentially make it less effective and even unsafe for eyes.
The brand claims that it works in just 10-minute-long treatments. It will also replace the device if the flashes ever run out and offers shoppers a full refund within 90 days if it doesnt work for them.
What the reviews say: One shopper says theyre incredibly impressed with the results, writing: I have seen a significant reduction in hair growth, and the hairs that do grow back are much thinner and easier to manage. Love that its reduced the strawberry skin on my legs as the hair is thinning. The device is easy to use and I have had no issues with irritation or discomfort.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 7 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, bikini line, Brazilian, underarms, legs, and face |
$449 at Nordstrom$449 at brookstone.com
Pros
- Uses two technologies for hair removal
- Great for small areas
- Claims to be effective on all skin tones
Cons
- May not work as well on thick/coarse hair
Crowned the best laser hair removal device for the face by the Good Housekeeping Institute, this Iluminage device combines both IPL and radio frequency waves to reduce hair growth. Thanks to its precision adapter head, this device is great for small areas like the upper lip and other targeted spots on the face. And while many devices wont work on darker skin tones, the brand claims it is effective for every skin tone.
What the reviews say: I have been using the product on my face, legs, and underarms for the past six weeks and have really seen a difference (peach fuzz on face and mustache on the upper lip are nearly gone!), shared one Nordstrom shopper.
| Technology | IPL and radio frequency |
|---|---|
| Levels | 3 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, face |
Now 27% Off
$239 at Amazon$329 at Walmart
Credit: Ulike
Pros
- Cooling technology for comfort
- Suitable for full-body use
- Long-lasting results
Cons
- Not suitable for dark skin tones
Currently Amazons best-selling light hair removal device, the Air 3 from Ulike uses IPL technology for long-lasting hair removal results. What sets it apart from other devices is its Sapphire Ice cooling system. Unlike other tools that reach high temperatures while in use, the Air 3 cools the skin, staying at around 67 degrees Fahrenheit, but delivers high heat to the hair follicle.
What the reviews say: I was a little skeptical of this working, as I do get laser hair removal done professionally as well, but this has worked wonders...Its easy to use, quick to warm up, and keeps cool even while I target multiple areas of my body with it.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 3 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Face, legs, arms, bikini, chest, armpits, and more |
$349 at Amazon
Credit: Silkn
Pros
- No need for refill cartridges
- Safe to use pretty much anywhere on the body
- Built-in skin color sensor
Cons
- Best for lighter skin tones and darker hair
This device uses FDA-cleared HPL (Home Pulsed Light) technology to remove hair. Its triggerless design means all you have to do is touch it to your skin and glide it over hair follicles using your choice for five power levels. It has a built-in skin color sensor that prevents the device from turning on if the skin tone is too dark to treat, and it doesnt require refill cartridges.
What the reviews say: What I love about this Silkn Flash&Go Pro is the speed and comfort of the flashes, even on my thick dark hairs. All my past hair removal devices have been painful on my dark hair/fair skin, but this one is not.
| Technology | HPL (Home Pulsed Light) |
|---|---|
| Levels | 5 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Face (cheekbones down), legs, arms, underarms, bikini lines, and more |
Now 17% Off
$189 at roseskinco.com
Credit: RoseSkinCo.
Pros
- Compact, portable size
- Safe for bikini area
- Brand says it delivers long-lasting results after 12 uses
Cons
- Reviewers say you need to be patient to see results
A less expensive IPL option, this is an easy-to-use, small, hand-held device. It promises to deliver long-term hair removal after 12 uses, says Brendan Camp, M.D., F.A.A.D., board-certified dermatologist in NYC. Offering six different intensity levels, the device comes in a compact size that fits in your palm and boasts a sleek, user-friendly design. The brand says that you can use it on just about any part of your body below the cheeks, including the face and bikini area.
What the reviews say: This is amazing! I followed the instructions and its super easy to use. Genuinely, this is the best product investment of my life, said one reviewer. So quick and easy! another wrote. Im a pain wuss, and this is much more pain-free than a traditional laser place, and I can assess my own comfort by moving the strength up and down.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 6 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | The brand says just about anywhere, which includes arms, legs, face (below cheekbones), bikini area |
Now 17% Off
$300 at Amazon$299 at jovs.com
Credit: Jovs
Pros
- Six function modes and six intensity levels
- 330-degree rotating head
- Cooling system that helps minimize discomfort
Cons
- Pricey
This top-rated device not only has a 330-degree rotating head to help you find the perfect angle, but it also comes with so many different features to customize it for the specific area youre targeting. It has six function modes and six intensity levels, each designated for different areas, such as arms, legs, face, bikini area, and armpits. Whats more, it has a cooling system to minimize discomfort even on the most sensitive areas.
What the reviews say: This is the first one Ive ever tried that has so many different intuitive features...I like that it has different mode options depending on the area that youre working on your body, said one shopper. The product is easy to use, comfortable, and works as advertised! wrote another. I notice a significant reduction in hair growth, and I feel no discomfort even in sensitive areas.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 6 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Arms, legs, face, bikini, armpits |
$290 at Amazon
Credit: BoSidin
Pros
- Rotating head for easy use
- Cooling feature helps soothe skin
- Suitable for use on the face
Cons
- Some users say the device needed to be powered on and off mid use to work
This BoSidin device was named the best at-home laser hair removal device for the bikini area by the Good Housekeeping Institute, thanks to its precision head that rotates from side to side for hard-to-reach places, like the bikini area. It claims to use the same medical-grade technologies as professional cosmetic centers. Several users note that the device is painless or nearly pain-free, especially with its cooling technology. It even boasts a mode to help shield you from the burning intensity of the light flashes.
What the reviews say: It has honestly been a life changer so far!! wrote one shopper. The revolving head makes it so easy to reach every spot at whatever angle needed to flash hair follicles. Being able to keep the cooling method on while doing the treatment is one of my favorite features and really does allow for the least painful experience possible.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 6 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, face, bikini area |
$385 at Amazon$349 at Walmart
Credit: Braun
Pros
- Great for larger surface areas like legs
- Includes a precision head for smaller areas
- Ten different modes, including sensitive modes
Cons
- Must use continuously for results
This uses IPL technology and incorporates a SensoAdapt sensor to adapt the treatment to your skin tone, explains Dr. Garshick. It can be helpful for larger surface areas using the glide mode and also includes a precision head to help address smaller areas, such as the face, bikini line, and underarms. Its also highly customizable with 10 different energy levels, including sensitive modes (you can choose from standard, gentle, and extra gentle).
What the reviews say: I have medium/tan skin and this thing literally saved my sanity. I suffer from strawberry legs, and its 90% gone, wrote one customer. Stubborn face hairs are gone. No more plucking or crying in the mirror because of my skin. My underarms look better. No more ingrown hairs. And all while at home.
| Technology | IPL |
|---|---|
| Levels | 10 |
| Where can it be used per the brand? | Body, face, bikini line, under arms |
What is at-home laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment of the hair follicle to help destroy the hair follicle and as a result reduce hair growth, explains Dr. Garshick. At-home devices are similar to what you might see in a professional setting, but they tend to use lower energy settings, making them less effective.
Whats the difference between laser and IPL?
Different technologies may be found in at-home devices, explains Dr. Garshick. IPLalso known as intense-pulsed lightis a light based therapy that emits multiple wavelengths of light. It is using heat to destroy the hair follicles and many of the at-home devices utilize this technology, and these devices can also be used for photorejuvenation.
Meanwhile, other devices may use laser technology. They often use diode lasers, which use a single wavelength of light to target the pigment of the hair follicle, says Dr. Garshick. This helps minimize injury to the surrounding skin.
Are at-home laser hair removal treatments worth it?
It depends on a few factors, including your skin tone. One major limitation is that knowledge on efficacy in darker skin types with dark hair is very limited, Dr. Agbai says. Other things to consider is if youre looking to remove hair once and for all and if you dont mind some trial, error, and the feel of laser or IPL.
Its also important to note that laser hair removal results vary and the outcomes are hard to predict, per the Mayo Clinic, so what works for you might not for someone else.
Are at-home laser hair removal treatments safe?
In general, some lasers may be considered safe for all skin types, while it is best to avoid IPL in darker skin types given the IPL has an increased risk of injury to the surrounding skin as well, Dr. Garshick explains. Both types of devices rely on the same target, which is the pigment of the hair follicle, to have an effect, but the diode laser is generally more targeted than the IPL and as a result a safer option for all skin types.
If youre wondering whether laser hair removal hurts, Dr. Garshick says, while laser hair removal can be uncomfortable in certain areas, it is tolerable.
At the end of the day, if youre concerned, its best to consult a professional. If you are interested in a home hair reduction device, go over the instructions with a board-certified dermatologist to make sure you are using the device safely and in a manner that will increase your chances to get hair reduction and reduce the risk of side effects, Dr. Agbai says.
How to choose the best at home laser hair removal treatment
While experts recommend making an appointment with a professional for an in-office laser hair removal treatment, there are some at-home options worth considering. That being said, heres what to keep in mind before you go shopping:
Safety. Has the device been tested on various skin tones? Has it been approved by the Federal Drug Association (FDA)? If this information is not readily accessible, its best to consult your dermatologist before purchasing.
Technology. At-home laser treatments differ from IPL, but we often use them interchangeably. With different technology comes different efficacy, and this is important to keep in mind. While both IPL and laser aim to remove hair, the way in which they do and how long it takes to see results differs.
Cost. At the end of the day, its worth comparing an at-home laser hair removal device to an in-office treatment. Depending on where you live and the professional you go to, if you need to buy multiple devices to find one that works best for you, you might end up paying just as much as you would for an in-office treatment.
How long do at-home laser hair removal treatments last?
Sadly, laser hair removal isnt entirely permanent. Its still possible for hairs to grow after this type of treatment. However, its a great option for long-lasting hair reduction, according to Dr. Garshick. Many people notice the results last years but may require some maintenance sessions periodically.
Each at-home device yields different results, so theres no one answer. The effects of at-home laser hair removal treatments are not permanent, and they tend to be less effective than in-office treatments, explains Dr. Camp. Some at-home devices can provide results that last months, but they may require monthly top off treatments to maintain the effects after the initial series of treatments.
How long does laser hair removal take to work?
While some improvement may be noticed after one session, it typically can take four to six sessions over a period of four to six months for optimal results, explains Dr. Garshick. At-home devices advertise a variety of different result times, usually within this range.
How should you take care of your skin immediately after doing laser hair removal?
Dr. Garshick advises being gentle with your skin after laser hair-removal. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers to soothe the skin. Additionally, if treated areas will be exposed to the sun, it can be important to also wear sun protection.
What should people know about laser hair removal and sun exposure?
Laser hair removal can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so its especially important to be good about sun protection after a laser treatment, says Dr. Garshick. Additionally, because the laser targets pigment, it is important to not have a tan when doing the laser treatment, as this can increase the risk of a burn or scarring.
Are there any side effects to at home laser treatments?
Yes, and they vary. Side effects have been reported to be uncommon, and have been reported as redness, bumpiness of the skin, burns, and discoloration, Dr. Agbai says. Damage to the eye can occur with direct exposure of the laser light to the eye. Thats why some at-home laser hair removal devices come with sunglasses.
Emily Goldman
Deputy Editor
Emily Goldman is the deputy editor at Prevention. Shes spent her career editing and writing about health, wellness, beauty, fashion, and food for Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Bridal Guide, Good Housekeeping, and more. Shes loved all things health and wellness since starting her bi-weekly podcast Pancreas Palsa series all about the highs and lows of living life with type 1 diabetes. When not podcasting, she spends most of her time curled up with a good book or watching a period piece on BBC.
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