Hair removal has become more accessible, affordable, and nearly painless, particularly with the introduction of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal devices in recent decades. Traditional methods like shaving often lead to skin irritation and razor cuts, while waxing can be too painful for regular use. Laser hair removal tends to be exorbitantly priced compared to the results it delivers, and depilatory creams can be messy due to their chemical composition.
In this context, IPL devices have emerged as the ultimate solution for effective, budget-friendly, long-lasting, and relatively painless hair removal. If you’re curious about the mechanics behind this technology, check out our article on How IPL Hair Removal Works. Here, we will compare two popular IPL hair removal devices: the 5minskin and the Ulike Air3.
Both devices are priced similarly, deliver rapid and effective outcomes, have an appealing design, and are user-friendly. Nevertheless, despite their comparable features, the user experience varies significantly between the two. Below, we delve into a detailed comparison of these at-home laser hair removal devices to determine which one comes out on top.
5minskin Device vs. Ulike Air3 IPL Handset
1. Design and Dimensions: Winner – Ulike Air3
While the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover” holds true in many instances, we can all agree that aesthetics matter, especially when it comes to personal devices.
The 5minskin at-home laser device boasts an elongated oval shape with flat ends. It features a straightforward interface, complete with an intensity indicator and a usage button on the front. Weighing in at 580 grams, it comes in several colors, including pink, black, and white, accented with golden details.
In contrast, the Ulike Air3 IPL hair removal handset presents a sleek, rectangular design. Its user interface is minimal yet elegant, with a small button and slim light and intensity indicators. Weighing only 271 grams due to its smart design, it is available in crystal purple or pure white.
When comparing the aesthetics, the 5minskin device appears rather conventional for an IPL product, whereas the Ulike Air3 stands out due to its refined appearance. Additionally, the lightweight and slim design of the Ulike Air3 makes it more comfortable to hold and maneuver during use.
2. Cost and Package Contents: Winner – Ulike Air3
Both the 5minskin at-home laser device and the Ulike Sapphire Air3 IPL handset retail for over $300, but Ulike offers complimentary shipping as an added benefit. When it comes to accessories included in the package, Ulike provides a more comprehensive selection.
The 5minskin IPL package is limited, offering only the hair removal device, a charger, a power cord, a safety razor, and goggles. Notably, it does not come with a dedicated storage case. Conversely, the Ulike Sapphire Air3 package includes the Air3 IPL handset, an adaptor, a 2-meter-long cord, a mini hair-shaving razor, protective black goggles, and a convenient storage case.
This makes Ulike a more comprehensive solution, supplying all necessary items for effective and hygienic hair removal at the same price point as 5minskin, which requires purchasing a storage pouch separately.
3. Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility: Winner – Tie
While IPL hair removal is highly effective, it's not suitable for everyone. Individuals with darker skin tones, such as dark brown or black, risk skin burns due to the IPL light being absorbed by melanin. Similarly, those with blonde, red, gray, or white hair may find IPL ineffective since their hair lacks sufficient melanin for the light to target.
Furthermore, there are several conditions, such as pregnancy and certain skin diseases, where the use of IPL hair removal devices is not advisable. For further information on IPL hair removal contraindications, you can explore our detailed guide.
Both the Ulike Air3 and 5minskin devices have identical compatibility in terms of skin tone and hair color, along with the same contraindications.
4. Treatment Modes: Winner – Ulike Air3
Treatment modes refer to the various ways a hair removal device can be utilized. This includes a stamping mode for precise treatment in challenging areas like armpits and bikini lines, as well as a gliding mode for larger body areas such as the chest, thighs, and back.
Unfortunately, the 5minskin offers only a stamping mode, requiring constant button pressing to apply IPL radiation continuously. On the other hand, the Ulike Air3 IPL device features both stamping and a thumb-free auto-gliding mode, providing users with a superior hair removal experience.
Therefore, if you're seeking a hair removal device with customizable treatment options, Ulike Air3 is the clear choice.
5. Comfort Modes: Winner – Ulike Air3
Comfort modes determine the number of flashes emitted by the device, allowing for gentler treatment on delicate areas such as the face, while delivering a more intense experience on tougher areas like legs and underarms.
The 5minskin device offers just one treatment mode for all body areas, accompanied by multiple intensity levels to accommodate different hair types across various parts of the body.
In contrast, the Ulike Air3 boasts three comfort modes, each with its own intensity levels, ensuring that your skin receives only as much radiation as necessary for effective hair removal. The comfort modes include a soft mode for sensitive skin, a body mode for regular use, and a power mode for stubborn hair.
Thus, Ulike Air3 surpasses the 5minskin IPL device with its personalized modes that elevate comfort during treatments.
6. Treatment Time and Results: Winner – Ulike Air3
To qualify as the best hair removal method, an IPL device must operate faster than other hair removal techniques. Both the 5minskin and Ulike Air3 are among the most efficient IPL devices available today.
The 5minskin IPL handset claims to cover the entire body in about 10 minutes. However, this duration can vary based on hair density and the treatment area. The stamping mode may further prolong treatment time. Regular use is required, with treatments recommended once a week over 12 sessions within three months to effectively eliminate hair follicles.
Conversely, the Ulike Air3 can treat the full body in just 7 minutes, thanks to its thumb-free auto-glide mode and a speed of 0.7 flashes per second. For optimal results, it should be used twice a week, with just six sessions in three weeks yielding a 90% reduction in unwanted hair over the long term.
Consequently, the Ulike Air3 offers a faster treatment process compared to the 5minskin, along with noticeably quicker results.
