The best IPL devices for at-home hair removal, tried and tested

If shaving, plucking or waxing just aren’t cutting it when it comes to hair removal, then IPL — aka “intense pulsed light” — is worth considering. The most advanced hair removal method you can use from the comfort of your own home, it works by stopping the hair cycle in its tracks to prevent regrowth.

Due to their high-tech nature, the best IPL hair removal devices tend to be expensive, but they can deliver savings in the long-term — you won’t need to splurge on trips to the salon or new razors, and you'll also be cutting down on environmental waste.

Plus, some of the Good Housekeeping Institute's tried and tested top scorers have great deals on right now, including £190 off our top pick for sensitive skin by Braun.

The best IPL devices to buy now

To find the top-performing tools, the GHI asked our panel of testers to try a range of market-leaders for three months.

These are the devices that impressed, tackling unwanted body hair with ease. Shop our edit now and scroll down for the full reviews.

How we test IPL devices

Our panel of 180 testers across the UK helped us test a range of at-home IPL hair removal devices for six to 12 weeks.

Testers followed the instructions provided with each device and gave us feedback on how effective they were at removing hair on the legs, underarms, bikini line and upper lip.

They also assessed how easy each device was to use and control, how simple the process was, and how comfortable it felt when removing hair. Finally, testers reported back on when regrowth started to appear.

Here are our favourites for silky smooth skin by summer.

Love Good Housekeeping and want more of our Triple-Tested recipes, home tips, fashion inspiration, essential consumer advice and so much more delivered to your inbox? Sign up to our FREE weekly newsletters, sit back and enjoy!

• 

  Travel-friendly
• No need to change heads
• Quiet during use
• Worked for many after just 3 weeks

Score: 90/100

This device scored top points for comfort, with our testers declaring it “basically pain-free”, while those who used it on their face experienced no irritation. Performance-wise, our panel was pleased with how quickly it reduced hair regrowth, with many saying it worked effectively after just three weeks. It also manoeuvred well over tricky areas, such as the chin and knees, which are often hard to treat.

It’s ergonomically designed, with many testers commenting on how easy it was to hold and change modes, and its shape prevented hands from cramping during prolonged periods of use. It has a range of settings, so you can find the right one for you depending on the area you’re targeting. There’s also no need to change heads for different parts of the body, making the process more streamlined. Testers liked that the device was quiet during use, too.

Key specifications

Score88/100

With several devices on our list, Philips has a lot to offer in the IPL department, and this cordless option more than lived up to expectations, according to our panel.

After just three weeks, all our testers were satisfied with the lack of regrowth, with many saying it worked wonders on both facial and body hair.

It won brownie points for how easy it was to use and how well it managed to keep hair around the bikini line at bay after six weeks. “Hair regrowth has become less frequent, and it's even less dark and thinner than before,” said one tester.

Key specifications

Score86/100

Although almost half the price of some other models on our list, this is a top-performing gadget. Our testers appreciated its sleek design, finding the device easy to hold, and said it only took a couple of minutes to cover their chosen area.

When it comes to results, our panel saw noticeable improvements within just four weeks of use, reporting that their hair regrowth was slower. After eight weeks, one tester said their "hair is growing back slower and thinner, especially in the underarm area." Our panel also liked the different settings offered, which includes one for sensitive skin, and found the light on the side useful for checking whether the device was in contact with enough skin.

Testers did note that this machine is slighter noisier than other models, and they struggled to get the flash to work on the front of their legs, but overall, this is a good value buy.

Key specifications

Score85/100

With four attachments to target different areas, this machine impressed for easy and accurate hair removal across the body, from the face to the bikini line.

Everyone found it easy to manoeuvre, especially over their legs. It was particularly effective for facial hair removal, with one tester saying they saw satisfying results here in just four weeks. Others were impressed with the lack of regrowth, with one user saying they hadn’t used it for three weeks and still "can't see much hair".

The panel also liked that the device is cordless, although the battery life could be longer, and some did find the design a little bulky.

Key specifications

• Good value
• Hair regrowth reduced after 4 weeks
• No pain or irritation

Score84/100

This machine is one of our most affordable picks. Testers found that hair regrowth reduced after just four weeks of use, while the hair that did grow back was thinner and therefore less noticeable.

Depending on the attachment, the device will switch to a tailored programme for the relevant body or face area. There are also five settings and a sensor that identifies the most comfortable one for your skin tone. Plus, it comes with a handy precision attachment for smaller areas.

After 12 weeks, our panel saw a visible reduction in hair on the body and face and no one experienced any pain or irritation while using it.

Key specifications

Score83/100

According to Braun, this device is able to deliver the equivalent of 22 years of treatment in its lifetime, and can treat your legs in less than five minutes. Featuring an impressive 10 intensity levels – ideal for those with sensitive skin – most of our testers were pleased with how quickly this device delivered results, seeing a decrease in their regrowth after both four and eight weeks.

It comes with a number of interchangeable heads (and a Venus razor as an added bonus), which our panel said made it easier to reach most areas of the body. Our testers found it covered a lot of skin within a short space of time too, delivering on its claims, and was easy to set up and control due to its single control button.

Key specifications

• Needs charging often

Score83/100

This device claims to perform a full body treatment in less than 20 minutes, aiming to reduce hair growth and prevent stubble and ingrown hairs. With a built-in sensor, it checks skin tone compatibility too, to ensure it emits the correct light pulse. You can also connect it to an app via Bluetooth, which offers a treatment plan and a light pulse counter.

Our panel noticed a reduction in hair growth and thickness after four weeks, with the majority saying there was a significant difference after the recommended 12 weeks. The panel appreciated its simple design and precise head, which allowed access to hard-to-reach areas. It’s compact as well, which is ideal for those short on storage space.

Key specifications

• Good for large areas of skin
• Effective at slowing regrowth
• Multiple attachments for different areas

Score78/100

This clever device features both pulse and glide modes – the latter allows you to cover larger areas of skin without needing to repeatedly press the button, making it quicker to use.

When it came to hair regrowth, our testers saw a difference within four weeks and noticed as time went on that it became even more effective at slowing down regrowth, making hair sparser.

The panel said the design was quite bulky, and it was a little tricky to change heads, but they did appreciate the different attachments, which allowed for better precision in certain areas.

Key specifications

The verdict: Which IPL device works best?

If you're looking for a device that's a great all-rounder – fast-acting, effective, easy to use and the effects last a long time, then opt for our winner, the Bondi Body V2 Laser.

Our top-rated Philips IPL is the Lumea 9000 Series. It comes with the brand's SkinSensor tech and you can set reminders for your top-up sessions via the app.

And if you want something affordable that still does the job, the SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL is a reliable option.

What is an IPL device?

IPL is a broad-spectrum light that’s scattered across the skin to help with long-term hair reduction. It directs energy at the melanin (the pigment that gives the skin/hair its colour) in the hair follicle, heating up the hair right down to the root (where most of the melanin is concentrated) to damage the follicle without harming the surrounding skin and break the cycle of regrowth.

Don’t expect instant results, but with regular use, IPL can help prevent unwanted hair from reaching the skin’s surface. Energy, frequency, skin and hair colour are all determining factors in the efficacy of the treatment.

Most of the best IPL hair removal devices are suitable for the body and face. They work by either gliding over skin, which is best for larger surface areas of the body such as your legs, or stamping (pressing onto the area), which is better for smaller areas where you need more precision.

What's the difference between IPL and laser hair removal?

Don’t confuse IPL with laser hair removal. Laser treatments use a different light source and target a more concentrated area. The laser method is often more powerful. You can use IPL devices at home, but if you want laser hair removal you’ll need to have it performed by a trained professional.

Is IPL hair removal safe?

IPL is considered safe to use, providing the device is from a reliable, trusted brand and instructions are followed as advised. Occasionally, some people may experience side effects such as redness, discomfort or, very rarely, blisters or burns. If any irritation occurs, consult a medical professional.

How to use IPL devices

For IPL hair removal to work effectively, some hair needs to be present for the energy to travel down to the follicle from the surface of the skin — but not so much that you run the risk of burning the skin. For that reason, it's best to shave before your IPL session rather than completely remove the hairs by waxing or epilating.

To fully break the growth cycle of your unwanted hair, regular IPL sessions are required. Each brand advises on how often to use their machine, and when you can expect to see results.

Can I use my IPL device every day?

Although it comes down to the specific brand and model, most IPL devices recommend you use them once every two weeks for the initial four weeks of treatment. Once you’ve mastered this, top-ups can take place up to once a month.

Note that to see the best results, you should stick to the recommended schedule to stop regrowth long-term. Make sure you note down the date you start your IPL journey and set up reminders of when to top up.

Does IPL treatment remove hair permanently?

Whether you’ve banished hair for good depends on your skin and hair type, as well as the area of the body involved. If you stick to a regular IPL routine, you can expect to see the majority of your hair gone for the long haul.

But as an IPL device can only stunt the growth of active hair follicles, it may take a while to remove all hair. This is because some areas will grow back quicker than others. Persistence is key though, and, at the bare minimum, you can expect much slower re-growth.

Does IPL hair removal hurt?

The level of discomfort varies from person to person, but the sensation can feel a little tingly and hot — it’s sometimes likened to being flicked with a hot elastic band. The process is quite quick, though, so the pain doesn’t last long.

Most devices have a range of heat settings to make the process more comfortable too, especially in areas that are more sensitive. It's important to remember that a lower intensity is also less effective, so keeping it at this setting would require you to use the machine for longer.

If you’ve tried epilating and couldn’t get through it without your eyes weeping, rest assured this is a more pain-free method!

Who can use an IPL hair removal device?

IPL devices aren’t suitable for everyone, as they’re only able to identify and target hair pigment that is a contrasting shade to the skin. Naturally light blonde, red, white and grey hairs contain little pigment, so IPL typically isn’t as effective on people with these hair shades, whatever their skin colour. Many devices also don’t work on dark skin tones. Typically, those with pale to medium skin and dark hair are the best candidates for IPL.

Note that they aren’t suitable for pregnant women, those with certain skin/hair conditions, or those undergoing particular treatments. They also don’t work on tattoos or permanent makeup — so always check the small print before you buy.

How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?

Typically, IPL devices should be used regularly for four to 12 weeks, to make sure all visible hair has been treated. Hair should start to appear finer and grow back slower, or not at all. Top-up sessions can be done where there is any regrowth. Results vary depending on the use of the device and your skin/hair type.

How to choose an IPL device

Consider the following factors before splashing your cash.

The number of flashes: This is the number of times the device can emit a flash. Most have a minimum of 100,000 but once this runs out, you'll need a replacement lamp. You can’t get replacement lamps for all devices, while some devices offer unlimited flashes.

The number of treatment heads: If you plan to use the device on smaller areas, a head that comes with a smaller treatment window is more efficient.

The level of intensities: This impacts how often you’ll need to use the device and whether you can adapt the intensity to suit more sensitive areas.

The number of modes: Most devices offer glide and stamp modes, with some also offering a “gentle” mode.

Speed: The shorter the time between flashes, the quicker the treatment session.

Automatic skin tone sensor: Some devices detect the optimum intensity and safe settings for your skin tone.

Corded or cordless: Some devices can be used cordless, for ease of use and transportation.

Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing products for over 100 years, from mops and vacuums to bedding and the best hair-growth tech.

Our testers are experts in their fields, whether that's home appliances or skincare science. They develop rigorous protocols to ensure we're putting every product through its paces in the lab. We also use an at-home panel to try products in real life, to ensure they live up to their claims.

Senior Beauty Writer, Florence Reeves-White, has been writing about beauty products for several years, which includes trying them herself at home to see which claims can be substantiated, and which are just too good to be true.

Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.

With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.

When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites

Orla is our Senior Beauty and Grooming Tester and has extensive knowledge of skin and hair composition thanks to her first class bachelor's degree in cosmetic science from the Universy of the Arts London. She also spent time as a Formulation Chemist intern at Amelia Knight Cosmetics.