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Hair Removal
Get ready to retire your razor.
By Brigitt Earley
Shaving unwanted body hair every couple of days, constant upkeep with hair removal creams, and waxing are tedious, which is why the best at-home laser hair removal devices offer an easy and more permanent solution. Sure, these devices require an upfront investment, and routine use, but compared to professional laser hair removal, you’ll save more in the long run. And the convenience of rarely having to shave can’t be beat. We spoke to dozens of dermatologists and tapped our editors to find out what devices they recommend the most. Then, we put the most noteworthy IPL and diode laser hair removal devices to the test over the course of more than 12 weeks (the time experts say it takes to see results).
TL;DR: Our top pick is the Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL for its great overall value. It falls in the middle of the pack price-wise, but offers lasting results within a few weeks.
The best at-home laser hair removal devices
- Best Overall: Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL, $380
- Best Budget: HappySkinCo Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset, $149
- Best for Dark Skin: CurrentBody Laser Hair Removal Device, $759
- Best for Sensitive Skin: SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device, $379
- Best for Most Skin Tones: Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System, $449
FAQs: How we tested | What is at-home laser hair removal? | How does laser hair removal work? | Does laser hair removal hurt? | Is laser hair removal safe? | Is laser hair removal permanent? | How long does laser hair removal take to work? | What to know about laser hair removal aftercare | What to know about laser hair removal and sun exposure | Which laser hair removal works best?
Here’s how it works
Glamour reviewer demonstrates how the CurrentBody laser hair removal device works.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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Best Overall: Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL
- Courtesy of brand
- Courtesy of brand
Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL
$380Amazon
- What we love: You’ve likely seen this laser hair removal device all over your social feeds, and for good reason. For starters, “it’s quick and easy to use with three sensitivity modes—normal, gentle, or extra gentle—so it’s less painful than other products on the market,” says Gloria Lin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley, couldn’t agree more. In just 10 to 15 minutes, she tackled her armpits, legs, and bikini line. “It didn’t hurt at all,” she says. “Maybe a tiny zing here and there, but nothing even remotely significant. And there’s only one big button to press. If you hold it down, it’ll even deliver continuous flashes, so you can complete large areas like legs in, well, a flash.”
- What to note: Braun promises results in as little as four weeks, and this time frame was spot-on in Earley’s testing. “After weekly treatments for four weeks, 99% of my hair had stopped growing completely,” she says. Also nice: It comes with a precision head attachment for the bikini area, a Venus razor to aid with pre-laser-hair-removal, and a storage pouch.
- Pros: Safe for use on the face and body; works quickly; comes with multiple attachments
- Cons: Storage case is bulky
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 3
- Flashes: 400,000 lifetime flashes
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Best Cooling: Ulike IPL Permanent Hair Removal Device
- Courtesy of brand
- Courtesy of brand
Ulike IPL Permanent Hair Removal Device
$299Amazon
- What we love: Since IPL works by heating up the hair, says Heather Woolery Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, things can get hot fast. This sleek little device uses cooling technology to lower the temperature to 50°F where it meets your skin, minimizing any discomfort from the heat. “This was the first at-home hair removal device I ever used, and I was really impressed by it,” says Earley. “The cooling feature was a nice touch that made me more comfortable, since I was nervous it would hurt. Spoiler alert: It did not.” We love that the device has unlimited flashes, so you can theoretically use it forever.
- What to note: It has a generously sized flash window, which gives you the ability to treat a larger area in a shorter amount of time. And, for easy use, each of the five intensity levels corresponds to a different area of the body—so you don’t have to figure it out yourself. “With consistent use according to the package instructions, I started to see results in a little over a month,” says Earley. “Overall, this device provides a really great value.”
- Pros: Intensity levels are easy to understand; cooling feature minimizes any discomfort; large flash window speeds things up
- Cons: Cooling fan makes this pick louder than some other devices
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: Unlimited lifetime flashes
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Best for Dark Skin: CurrentBody Laser Hair Removal Device
- Original image by Glamour reviewer Brigitt Earley
- Courtesy of brand
CurrentBody Laser Hair Removal Device
$759Current Body
- What we love: CurrentBody’s laser is one of the most exciting launches in the category in recent years, because it’s a diode laser rather than a traditional IPL. “Diode Lasers emit a single wavelength of light that penetrates deeper into the hair follicle,” says Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration. “I’ve found that diode lasers are generally more effective across a broader range of skin tones and hair types, often requiring fewer sessions than IPL.” Earley, who has been testing the device on her legs for the past three weeks, has seen impressive results already. “I’ve been using the laser on the highest setting without any pain, and have noticed a significant reduction in the amount of hair growing back over the last few weeks.”
- What to note: On the downside, the laser is heftier than others we tested. It looks more like a small hair dryer than a laser hair removal device. But it’s not loud and it’s, overall, pretty easy to operate.
- Pros: Better for dark skin; diode laser is a closer match to in-office technologies; six intensity levels
- Cons: Bulkier than other options
- Laser type: Diode
- Intensity levels: 6
- Flashes: 5-year shelf life
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Best for Hard-to-Reach Areas: Silk’n 7
- Original image by Glamour reviewer Brigitt Earley
- Courtesy of brand
Silk’n 7
$599Silk’n
- What we love: Silk’n recently launched a new laser hair removal device that’s quickly getting a lot of attention. Like the CurrentBody Laser, it is on the larger side, but it’s equipped with a design feature that separates it from the rest: a 360-degree rotating head. Our editors who have tested this device say it’s a game changer for those smaller areas that can be hard to cover with the flash window—like the bikini line. “To adequately cover a spot like the bikini line, you have to do a lot of contorting,” says Earley. “This laser makes it so much easier and comfortable to get the angle right.” It also comes with three precision attachments to help in this department too. There’s a 5-inch head that’s the largest on the market at the moment (a great way to speedily tackle big areas like the legs), a medium-size one for the underarm and bikini, and a small one for facial hair.
- What to note: In tests, we found the device’s controls to be very intuitive, plus really liked the rotatable head. Overall, the experience was quick and painless and results were swift. It’s all thanks to the fact that this laser is not IPL, but instead eHPL (enhanced Home Pulsed Light), a new technology that uses both galvanic and optical energy. The galvanic energy opens pores to help the optical energy better zap the hair follicles, leading to improved results in less time.
- Pros: More advanced technology than traditional IPL; rotating head for hard-to-reach spots; three precision heads
- Cons: Larger than other options
- Laser type: eHPL
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: 600,000 lifetime flashes
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Best Budget: HappySkinCo Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset
Courtesy of brand5/19HAPPYSKINCO Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset
$149Walmart
- What we love: We like this laser hair removal device not just for its more affordable price point, but also for its size. The hand-size device is easy to hold and has an ergonomic design that makes it easier to maneuver, whether you’re tackling legs, armpits, the bikini line, or even your face. It works quickly too, thanks to a relatively large light window that makes quick work of larger areas like the legs.
- What to note: If you worry about any pain or tingling sensations you’ll appreciate the low intensity of this laser. You can use it anywhere on the body without pain and even do multiple passes in the same area without sacrificing results—a great way to ensure you don’t miss any hair follicles along the way. After a couple months of consistent use, fans of this laser hair removal device say they can go nearly two weeks before they have to shave their legs again.
- Pros: Long power cord for easier access; small, easy-to-hold design; five intensity levels
- Cons: Doesn’t work as quickly as our top overall pick
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: 500,000 lifetime flashes
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Best for Sensitive Skin: SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device
Courtesy of brand6/19SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device
$349 $249CurrentBody
$329Amazon
- What we love: “In many cases, at-home ‘laser’ hair removal is actually not a laser but something called IPL, or intense pulsed light,” says Dr. Woolery Lloyd, who explains that it targets the dark pigment in hair. This FDA-approved IPL device has three intensity levels, including a more gentle one to suit sensitive skin. Users like that it comes with a precision head attachment that can reach small, tight areas like the upper lip and bikini line. “I used it on my bikini line, because shaving always gave me little red bumps,” says one tester who saw a noticeable difference in hair growth after just two to three weeks. “My hair is definitely finer and sparser. I’m very impressed.”
- What to note: If you opt for the higher setting, the IPL device will deliver up to 130 flashes per minute—one of the more impressive on the list. It also can sense your skin tone and adjust the energy output accordingly.
- Pros: Three targeted modes and 10 intensity levels; unlimited flashes; automatically senses skin tone
- Cons: A bit larger than some other devices
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 10
- Flashes: Unlimited lifetime flashes
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Best for Blonde Hair: Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X
Courtesy of brand7/19Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X
$499 $399Tria Beauty
- What we love: What sets this laser apart? “It’s one of the most powerful and effective at-home laser hair removal devices available,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, who explains that it’s one of the only diode lasers on the market. In fact, it’s the same laser technology used in dermatology practices versus the usual IPL. Plus, “the screen makes it very easy to use, even for beginners,” says Dr. Engelman. Another bonus? It features five different energy levels that you can customize to target stubborn hair growth as you grow acclimated to the device. Users also like that this laser is cordless, which can be very convenient when treating hard-to-reach areas.
- What to note: You don’t have to use it as frequently as some of the other laser hair removal devices on our list. For comparison purposes, you have to use the Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 once per week for 12 weeks, but you only have to use this laser every two weeks for 12 weeks. It can also be used on a greater range of hair colors.
- Pros: Works on lighter hair colors; cordless design; five intensity levels
- Cons: The laser cap is great for precision, but will take a long time for larger areas of the body.
- Laser type: Diode
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: 90,000 lifetime flashes
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Best for Most Skin Tones: Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System
Courtesy of brand8/19Iluminage Touch Home Permanent Hair Removal Device
$449Nordstrom
- What we love: Though it’s on the bulkier side, one of the biggest draws to this device is the wider range of hair colors its effective on. Even those with blond, dark blond, and red hair will see results with this product. This product, which uses a combination of IPL and radio-frequency technology to permanently reduce hair growth, hinges on the FDA-cleared technology of Syneron Candela, a company that creates professional, in-office devices used by medical providers, says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Toronto.
- What to note: While this is more of an investment, it also lasts longer than most other at-home IPLs. Most IPLs have lifetime flash limits somewhere between 400,000 and 600,000, but “the hair cartridge on the Iluminage Touch has unlimited pulses, so you can use it for years and years without needing to replace it,” says Deanne Robinson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Westport, Connecticut, who also appreciates that it comes with a hair reduction head, a shaver head for trimming treatments areas, and a precision adapter for smaller spots.
- Pros: Works on wide range of hair colors; made by a company that manufactures in-office lasers; unlimited flashes
- Cons: The dock takes up a lot of space.
- Laser type: IPL and radio frequency
- Intensity levels: 3
- Flashes: Unlimited lifetime flashes
Save when you shop for the best at-home laser hair removal devices with these Nordstrom coupon codes.
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Best for Large Areas: Nood The Flasher 2.0
Courtesy of brand9/19Nood The Flasher 2.0
$199Amazon
- What we love: Here’s another option that regularly pops up on social feeds, and Dr. Robinson is a fan. She particularly likes the larger handset. “I would recommend this for larger areas of the body that don’t require as much precision—legs, arms, underarms versus face and bikini,” she says. Users like the convenience of the large digital LED screen on the handset, noting it makes switching between the five intensity levels relatively goof-proof—great for beginners. The laser also covers more area in less time, thanks to the big flash window. You can cover both legs in less than 10 minutes.
- What to note: The device also has five different intensity levels for more flexibility in treatment. “After four weeks, I noticed less regrowth,” said one tester. “And after the recommended eight weeks, my hair was virtually undetectable—even after a week without shaving.”
- Pros: It’s easy and fast to use.
- Cons: Lifetime guarantee with handset replacement included
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: 600,000 lifetime flashes
10/19 How we tested
When evaluating laser hair removal tools, we considered important attributes like the type of laser, how many flashes the device delivers (an indicator of the longevity of the device), how many intensity levels, and any attachments. We also considered convenience factors like how comfortable each laser is to hold and corded versus cordless designs. Of course, we also asked for feedback on efficacy: how effectively (and painlessly) did the laser reduce regrowth? In the end, we came up with this list of nine lasers that our experts and testers said were the best hair removal systems for lasting results.
11/19 What is at-home laser hair removal?
At-home laser hair removal is a great option for people who want to manage unwanted hair and are looking for an alternative to other at-home hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, or epilating, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. It’s convenient and cheaper than in-office treatments, and lasts longer, he adds. Most at-home laser devices use IPL (intense pulsed light), which is a light that works to destroy hair follicles at the root, preventing regrowth, says Bertha Baum, MD, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
12/19 How does laser hair removal work?
“Laser hair removal, both at home and in a physician’s office, uses light or laser technology to target hair follicles for destruction,” says Dr. Deborah Yu, a physician at The Plastic Surgery Center in Shrewsbury, New Jersey. “The laser light is used to create heat within the follicle to cauterize the hair lining and effectively kill the follicle for good,” says Rachel Lee Lozina, a licensed esthetician, laser technician, and founder of Blue Water Spa in Oyster Bay, New York.
Other at-home laser hair removal devices are considered diodes. These lasers use a single wavelength of light that more closely mimics what’s used at in-office treatments. Unlike IPL, diode lasers can be used on a wider range of skin tones.
13/19 Does laser hair removal hurt?
Our testers were overwhelmingly surprised by how pain-free their experience with at-home laser removal was. Some reported that they experienced a slight “zing” here and there, but it couldn’t actually be described as painful. That said, skin can be more sensitive than usual after treatment, says Jeannette Graf, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That’s why it’s best to stay away from shaving, direct sun exposure, and active treatments that increase sensitivity for a few days after using a device.” (Translation: Stock up on sunscreen!)
14/19 Is laser hair removal safe?
Laser hair removal with a trained and experienced medical provider is generally safer, especially for patients with darker skin tones. “This is because laser hair removal works by targeting melanin pigments, so a stronger contrast between the color of the skin and hair will yield the best results with minimal risk,” says Dr. Engleman. (It’s the same case for in-office hair removal treatments, which is why those with darker skin require extra consideration.)
“Since dark pigment is the target, there is an increased risk of heating up the dark pigment in the skin, and therefore it’s risky in darker skin types,” Heather Woolery Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, tells Glamour. On the line? You could risk discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and potential scarring, says New York City dermatologist Gloria Lin, MD. “Any area that is darker on the body—for example, groin and armpits—should be lasered with caution, as the laser needs to be able to detect the difference between the skin and the hair color,” she says. (So avoid tanning before you do it.)
“Some at-home laser hair removal devices have been FDA-cleared, meaning they’ve passed the FDA requirements and are presumably safer,” add Dr. Yu.
Bottom line: Laser hair removal is generally regarded as safe and effective for those with light to medium skin tones and dark hair, but be cautious if you have a deeper skin tone.
15/19 Is laser hair removal permanent?
“Laser hair removal is not permanent,” says Dr. Yu. “Hairs will grow back after treatment, but after multiple treatments, the hair will grow back at a much slower rate and thinner. Typically, you won’t need to shave regularly, but will likely require one or more touch-ups per year.
16/19 How long does laser hair removal take to work?
“Generally, six to eight sessions are needed, with indefinite touch-ups,” says Lozina. But—and this is a big but!—the exact timeline for laser hair removal is highly dependent on each individual’s skin and hair growth. Although it requires time and scheduled usage, it can greatly reduce the softness and thickness of hair growth, and over time yield significant results, says Dr. Graf.
17/19 What to know about laser hair removal aftercare
After laser hair removal, slather on some body lotion. “Sometimes laser treatments can dry out the skin,” says Dr. Yu. “You should also protect yourself from direct sun exposure, as the treated areas may be more sensitive to the sun.” Avoid other hair-removal techniques, like waxing or using chemical depilatories like Nair, since they can affect your results. “Those treatments remove the hair follicles that the laser is designed to target,” she says.
18/19 What to know about laser hair removal and sun exposure
It’s always smart to tap SPF, but after laser hair removal, protecting your skin from the sun’s rays is more important than ever. “Treated areas may be more sensitive to the sun,” says Dr. Yu. “Also, if you are tan or have been exposed to the sun, wait until any color has faded before treatment.” This helps ensure better results, and can help prevent any potential hyperpigmentation issues.
19/19 Which laser hair removal works best?
“For my patients with lighter skin and darker hair, IPL can be quite effective,” says Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration. “However, for those with darker skin tones or coarser hair, I usually recommend diode lasers. They penetrate deeper and provide more consistent results, which aligns with what I aim for in clinical treatments.”
Brigitt Earley, a graduate of Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, has been testing consumer products and writing commerce content for 15 years and counting. She began her career in media as an editorial assistant at Real Simple, eventually rising to deputy editor of the publication's website before departing to pursue... Read more
Topicsshoppingskin carelaser hair removalpromo codeshair removal
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