Thanks to a new generation of at-home laser hair removal devices, you can now zap off any unwanted body hair without having to leave the house. In fact, the best at-home laser hair removal devices don’t just leave your skin feeling silky smooth and hair-free, they do so in the most painless way possible.
While shaving, waxing, epilators and electric trimmers are perfectly effective at removing body hair, they often come at a price, from ingrown hairs and itching to redness and irritation. Furthermore, unlike the best at-home laser hair removal devices, the results are often painful and temporary, which is why it’s time to think about levelling up your body care routine. We spoke to the experts for a 101 on laser hair removal. Below you’ll find everything you need to know, plus Vogue’s tried and tested favourites for your smoothest shave yet.
Meet the experts:
- Caroline Brooks is a skin specialist and founder of The Glass House Salon & Spa.
- Heather Talbot is a product expert at CurrentBody.
- Dr Kajal Babamiri is an aesthetic doctor at Clnq Clinic.
Do home hair removal lasers work?
When it comes to eliminating unwanted body hair, at-home laser hair removal devices are the most effective. “Home hair removal lasers use pulsing light technology to target and destroy hair follicles, preventing hair from growing back,” says Brooks. “When the light beam is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, it converts to heat which damages the hair follicle and prevents hair growth.” It also works by decreasing the thickness of each individual hair, and the density of hair overall, which is why, after each session not only do less hairs grow back, but the thickness of each hair that does grow is massively reduced.
How long does home laser hair removal last?
The length of time at-home laser hair removal lasts varies according to the device and individual hair growth pattern, which is why it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. “Most treatment protocols are once a week for 12 weeks,” says Talbot. “This means you catch the hair in different stages of the growth cycle. You’re likely to see results sooner but for long-lasting results, that 12 week cycle is important.” After that, you can use as and when for maintenance.”
Do you have to shave before doing at-home laser?
Yes, it is recommended you shave the area prior to treatment in order to ensure the light is being directed to the hair follicles under the skin, rather than being absorbed by hair on the surface.
Read more: The Best LED Face Masks For Clearer Skin, Tried And Tested
What is the difference between IPL and laser at home?
The main difference between IPL and laser at-home hair removal is the type of light used. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses a broad spectrum of light to target hair, while laser hair removal concentrates a single wavelength of light to target specific hair follicles. “Lasers are more effective for permanent hair reduction, while IPL devices may be better for treating larger areas of the body,” says `Dr Babamiri. “However both types of devices can be effective for at-home hair removal, but in-clinic treatments will give a more impressive and longer-lasting result.”
Is laser home hair removal safe?
At-home devices use lower energy levels than in the salon, so are generally safe to use. “We always recommend checking the safety features of your chosen device,” says Talbot. “Having FDA approval is a good starting point as a device won’t have been passed through their rigorous testing program without proof of safety.”
Do laser hair removal devices work on everyone?
The best at-home laser hair removal devices work on all different skin tones and hair colours. However, they are proven to be more effective when there is a greater colour contrast between the skin and the hair. Which is why not all devices work equally on darker skin or light blonde, grey or red hairs. Always check the colour chart for guidance.
Vogue’s top laser hair removal devices:
- Best laser hair removal device overall: Braun IPL Pro 7 Skin-i Expert, £999
- Best laser hair removal device for sensitive skin: Sensilight Pro With RPL™ Technology, £300
- Best laser hair removal device for darker skin: Silk’n Permanent Hair Remover For Light To Dark Skin, £350 £230
- Best powerful laser hair removal device: SmoothSkin Pure Mini Lite, £149
- Best laser hair removal device for intensive treatments: Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X, £400
- Best laser hair removal device for face and body: Philips Lumea 4 Attachment IPL 8000 Series, £450
Best laser hair removal device overall: Braun IPL Pro 7 Skin-i Expert
Not only does Braun’s IPL beauty set neatly contain every essential for a smooth shave, but it’s also home to the smartest device on this list. Boasting responsive tech that assesses your skin tone and adjusts light intensity accordingly, it’s a sound choice for safe and effective home hair removal. You needn’t be a pro to master this tool either – the accompanying app offers instructions in real-time and a calendar that schedules and reminds you of your weekly sessions. Complete with attachments for everywhere from the face to the bikini line, it removes hair permanently in a mere matter of weeks, after which you only need the occasional treatment to maintain your results.
Vogue-approved review:
“Depending on your skin tone, laser hair removal can be complicated. In the past, I‘ve spared no expense travelling to specialist clinics that offer the right wavelengths for my Fitzpatrick 5-toned skin. Yes, Braun’s device is a considerable investment, but it is a fraction of the cost I’ve spent on repeat in-clinic appointments – and using it I’ve found it’s like having a laser technician on call in the comfort of your own home.
