Are you tired of experimenting with various methods for removing unwanted hair from your body and face? Whether you’ve tried shaving, waxing, depilation, or epilation, each technique often comes with its own set of side effects. If you’re particularly curious about waxing, exploring the Waxing Side Effects can provide you with valuable insights.
Among all the hair removal options available, one of the most cost-effective methods is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. The SmoothSkin brand stands out for its efficiency and offers two popular IPL devices: the SmoothSkin Mini, known for its compact design and significant effectiveness, and the SmoothSkin Pure Fit, which promises a superior hair removal experience through its advanced features.
The two devices differ in price and several features, so let's delve deeper into the characteristics of both the Mini and Pure Fit IPL handsets to determine which one might be the best investment for you.
SmoothSkin Pure Fit vs. Mini
1. First Impressions and Design: Winner – SmoothSkin Mini
The SmoothSkin Pure Fit boasts a full-length, wand-like design, while the SmoothSkin Mini is more compact and resembles the shape of a computer mouse. Both devices share a sleek black exterior accented with golden details, enhancing their visual appeal.
Each device features a logo on the front alongside a control button and intensity indicators positioned on the sides. They also have rectangular windows that allow the light to flash onto the skin.
Both devices make a striking first impression. However, while the Pure Fit is ergonomically designed for ease of grip, its heavier weight can lead to fatigue by the end of a full-body hair removal session. In contrast, the Mini is lighter and fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, preventing strain during use.
2. Package Inclusions: Winner – A Tie
Each SmoothSkin IPL device comes with a set of essential accessories, including the IPL device itself, a precision head, an adaptor, and a long cord. It’s important to note that these are corded devices, requiring use near a power outlet.
Before utilizing an IPL device, you’ll need a safety razor for hair removal and a pair of high-quality goggles to shield your eyes from any unexpected damage. To learn more about the IPL hair removal process, including potential side effects and preventive measures, consider reading up on IPL Hair Removal Side Effects.
3. Intensity Levels and Comfort Modes: Winner – SmoothSkin Pure Fit
Both the SmoothSkin Pure Fit and Mini feature 10 customizable intensity levels, accommodating various body areas, hair thickness, and skin tones. The energy output varies between 3 J/cm² and 6 J/cm² at these levels. Additionally, both devices offer two treatment modes: gliding mode for larger skin areas and stamping mode for hard-to-reach spots.
However, they differ in comfort modes. The SmoothSkin Pure Fit includes three comfort modes: a speed mode with an energy output of 3 J/cm² for 130 flashes, a gentle mode at 4 J/cm² for 130 flashes, and a power mode delivering 6 J/cm² with 100 flashes per minute. In contrast, the SmoothSkin Mini only offers a gentle and power mode.
4. Treatment Duration and Results: Winner – SmoothSkin Pure Fit
While both devices require approximately 10 minutes for a full-body treatment, the actual duration can vary based on the selected intensity and comfort mode. You only need to perform one treatment per week over the course of three months.
Within this timeframe, the Pure Fit achieves a remarkable 99% reduction in hair regrowth, compared to the Mini’s 97%. Furthermore, users can start seeing results with the Pure Fit in just two weeks due to its 20W optical power, while the Mini takes about four weeks with its 18W output. Thus, the SmoothSkin Pure Fit emerges as the quicker and more effective option.
5. User Experience: Winner – A Tie
The user experience with both devices is nearly identical. Each IPL handset is equipped with 4-point contact sensors to prevent eye exposure to bright flashes, skin tone sensors that automatically adjust settings to avoid burning darker skin tones, and UV filters to protect against harmful rays.
Both SmoothSkin models incorporate active air technology, which facilitates cooling by ventilating air through the device, preventing overheating of both the unit and your skin.
6. Safety Certifications and Recommendations: Winner – SmoothSkin Pure Fit
You can trust the safety of SmoothSkin IPL devices, as they are FDA-cleared. In addition, they hold certifications from CE, ICH, and FC and have garnered attention in various beauty publications, including Allure, Women’s Health, Beauty Insider, and Good Housekeeping.
While the SmoothSkin Mini carries the same certifications, the Pure Fit boasts additional approvals from MFDS Korea and ARC, along with endorsements from magazines like Cosmopolitan, Byrdie, and W.
7. Pricing and Lifespan
The SmoothSkin Pure Fit is priced at $379, while the SmoothSkin Mini retails for $329. Both devices offer unlimited flashes, making them a one-time investment, with no further expenses required for hair removal aside from the initial costs for goggles and razors. Your choice will ultimately depend on your budget, as both models are quite similar in terms of functionality and overall experience.
Exploring an Alternative Device for Quicker Results and Enhanced User Experience
Although SmoothSkin presents a solid option for IPL hair removal, its design may not be the most comfortable for every user, and the time required for lasting results can be lengthy. As an alternative, consider the Ulike Sapphire Air3 IPL Handset. Let’s explore how it compares favorably against the SmoothSkin devices.
1. Design and Usability
The Ulike Air3 stands out with its elegant white or crystal purple design, featuring a sleek and ergonomic shape. It not only looks attractive on display but is also lightweight and easy to grip, minimizing hand fatigue during full-body sessions thanks to its user-friendly interface.
2. Value for Your Money
The Ulike Air3 is priced comparably to the SmoothSkin Pure Fit, but it includes accessories such as goggles, a leather case, and a safety razor, eliminating the need for additional purchases.
Currently available at a discounted price of $279, Ulike Air3 offers excellent value for your investment.
3. Near-Painless Experience
Similar to Smooth
