10 At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices That Actually Work
Achieve smooth skin with just a few zaps.
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The season of wearing less and going out more is long gone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t savor your summer smoothness. Thanks to at-home laser hair removal devices, it’s easier (and less costly) to maintain the benefits of velvety, soft skin year-round.
Laser hair removal can seem intimidating for those accustomed to other popular forms of removal, like using the best razors to sugaring or waxing. While these are quick and convenient methods, especially in dire situations, they aren’t always the best options. In some cases, razors can produce thicker, coarser hair, while a trip to a salon for a wax can be tough to squeeze into busy schedules. However, laser hair removal (both professional and an at-home treatment) is one option that promises more permanent results. In-office consultations can be costly, but thankfully there is a surplus of at-home laser hair removal devices waiting to enter your life.
If you’ve ever been curious about at-home devices, they come in two categories: IPL or a diode laser. The most popular of the two is IPL, or intense pulsated light, which uses tiny beams of light at different wavelengths to zap each hair follicle. “In essence, it is using heat to destroy the hair follicles,” says dermatologist Dr. Marisa K. Garshick, who mentions that dermatologists also use versions of IPL for photo rejuvenation procedures (a.k.a. fading dark spots). On the flip side, diode laser technology uses one single wavelength of light, which experts say can help minimize damage to the surrounding skin and be used safely on all skin types and shades. The light is selectively absorbed by the pigment, or melanin, within the hair follicle, making it a more targeted (and often more effective) approach to hair removal.
According to dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal, it’s important to note that most at-home devices are “best suited for small to medium hairs in small areas—upper lip, chin, cheeks, bikini, etc.,” he says. “They are typically not meant for large surface areas like the back.” (There are a few exceptions, but we’ll get to that later).
To help you wade through the treacherous waters of the World Wide Web, we consulted our experts and customer reviews to find the 10 best at-home laser hair removal devices for women.
Pros
- Cooling feature
Cons
- Battery doesn’t last too long
Part of the fear of doing laser hair removal is the guaranteed pain. Of course, it becomes easier to bear with consistent use, but it can still be uncomfortable. This device has a built-in cooling feature to ease the sting while soothing any discomfort.
Best for: Light to medium skin tones
Hair color: Brown to black hair types
Usage: Three times per week for the first two weeks
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “My underarm hair is probably half it was when I started a month ago. I started on setting 2 but quickly got to 5 with minimal pain. Stay consistent with 4/5 times a week and you’ll get there!”
Pros
- Perfect for travel
Cons
- Results take time
If you’re a busybody who doesn’t always have the time to book a laser hair removal session, Foreo’s at-home device was engineered to work quickly and effectively for those who haste. A cooling feature allows for seamless, pain-free passes.
Best for: Light to medium tones
Hair type: Medium blonde to black hair
Usage: Once every two weeks for 12 weeks
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is small compact and easy to use. You have to be persistent to see results, but you will see them. It’s durable, small, and compact. The app makes it easy to use. I love this thing and can not wait to see full results.”
Nood The Flasher 2.0
Pros
- Can be used everywhere
Cons
- Not for lighter hair colors
In a perfect world, most at-home laser hair removal devices would be equipped to be used forever and ever. Unfortunately, that’s not exactly the case, but this device comes pretty close. Fitted with 600,000 flashes, which equals about 40-plus years of full-body treatments, you can bet this tool will be in for the long haul.
Best for: Fair to dark complexions
Hair color: Black and brown hair
Usage: Two sessions per week for the first eight weeks
Nood rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Nood reviewer says: “The flasher is easy to use and I am already starting to see results in the first four weeks! Cannot wait to see what it does in the next four weeks!”
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Works best on thin hair
If you’re in the market for something that won’t break the bank but will deliver silky hair-free legs, look no further. This model features two modes and eight adjustable light settings to ensure pain-free removal. Even better, you get a three-year warranty.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Light brown to black hair
Usage: Once a week
Amazon rating: 3.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I didn’t really expect this little device to do such a good job, but it does. I would normally need to shave every three days, and now I don’t have stubble for nearly a week. Plus, my skin feels really smooth.”
Ulike IPL Hair Removal Device
Pros
- Doesn’t burn
Cons
- Takes several weeks to see results
This sapphire device might look too pretty to use, but trust me, you’ll become obsessed with the results. Unlike some devices, which can burn the skin, this tool has a significantly cooler head, making it more comfortable to use. If you don’t have a high pain tolerance, this tool is practically painless to use.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Black to dark blonde hair
Usage: Three times a week for the first four weeks
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I never write reviews, but feel like I have to for this device. I began using it immediately on my upper lip, chin, and armpits. I have not had to pluck a single chin hair since I started using it over a month ago. The armpit hair growth has substantially decreased as well. I am approximately seven sessions in, and I cannot speak highly enough of this device.”
Pros
- Easy to store
Cons
- Has to be plugged in for use
For your next international getaway or domestic weekend trip, you might want to start thinking about what you want to bring in your makeup bag. This FDA-approved device can easily fit in any toiletry case and still packs a punch with its 300,000 flashes. In fact, it’s designed to reveal smooth skin in just 15 minutes.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Black to dark blonde hair
Usage: Once a week
Amazon rating: 3.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Quite simple to use, doesn’t burn, and isn’t painful. It is small and can be carried in your luggage, so you do not have to stop the treatments.”
Pros
- Has an automatic flash mode
Cons
- Cord could be longer
If your pain tolerance is somewhat low, you may want to reach for this device with cooling technology that reduces laser heat and inflammation. What’s more, it has three other attachments and is rechargeable.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Black to light brown hair
Usage: Once a week
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It worked like magic. You need to be consistent though, but it works.”
Pros
- Works on ingrown hairs
Cons
- Bulky design
According to some reviewers, this device is best suited for those with very dark and/or coarse hair. It’s equipped with an LED screen to track how many light pulses have beamed onto each area—though you may need to wear safety goggles (which are included) while operating. Each lamp comes programmed with enough pulses to last for up to five years. When it runs out, you can order a replacement cartridge and keep the handle.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Black to light brown hair
Usage: Once a week
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “If you’re a female with the unfortunate gift of facial hair, do not hesitate—buy this one! I have fair skin and thick black hairs, which make me a great candidate. I’m on my sixth treatment, and my chin hairs are growing back finer and slower. I’ve also used this on my armpits with great success.”
Pros
- FDA-approved
Cons
- Bulky design
If you’re looking for an FDA-approved device to treat larger areas like your legs, arms, or back, the head of this laser is large enough to cover more ground. The laser emitted is a brand-patented combination of IPL and radiofrequency designed to safely treat a broader range of skin tones and hair colors. The scientists behind the professional machines actually developed the technology, so you know you’re in good hands.
Best for: All skin tones
Hair color: All hair colors
Usage: Once a week
Nordstrom rating: 4/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I️ had modest expectations, but this product definitely went above and beyond. I️ have black hair and mainly used it to reduce the peach fuzz on my abdominal area.”
Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5137
Pros
- Numerous intensity levels
Cons
- Not for face use
This FDA-approved device features a sensor that adapts the light intensity to your skin tone, striking the perfect balance between safety and efficacy. For sensitive skin, there are also three “comfort modes” to choose from: normal, gentle, or extra gentle. The device comes with two interchangeable heads for more precise results in different areas, like the face, armpits, and bikini line.
Best for: Fair to medium complexions
Hair color: Black to light brown hair
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’m eight weeks in and it has worked even better than I’d hoped. Other than a few stray hairs, my legs are completely hairless, and I have no need to shave between treatments.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Marisa K. Garshick is a dermatologist practicing with MCDS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey.
Dr. Karan Lal is a dermatologist and director of pediatric dermatology and cosmetic surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.
How long does it take to see results?
“Both IPL and diode devices rely on the same target, which is the pigment of the hair follicle, to have an effect,” Dr. Garshick says. “At the most basic level, the diode refers to an actual laser, while the IPL is a light-based device.”
With a bit of consistency and a lot of patience, whichever light beam route you opt for will yield real results. Typically, it will take at least a few sessions to see any change, and each session should be spaced out at least one week apart. Remember always to follow the instructions of your specific device.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Depending on the intensity level of the laser (many of the devices have multiple settings), it can feel uncomfortable. When each follicle is zapped, it might sting a bit; many people compare it to a rubber band being snapped on the skin. But hey, no pain, no gain, right?
Does laser hair removal work on all skin tones and hair colors?
Before you start shopping (and zapping) away, we do have one important editor’s note: Since laser hair removal relies on melanin to produce results, it’s often not effective on lighter hair colors, like blonde and light gray, which, by nature, contain less pigment. If you have a lighter hair color, consult with a dermatologist before investing your money into an expensive at-home device. Also, read the fine print of every product description because most companies disclose this information upfront. Laser hair removal is also safe for people of color, but certain lasers can cause hyperpigmentation and irritation on darker skin tones, so again, it is best to consult your dermatologist.
Is at-home laser hair removal safe?
Generally speaking, laser hair removal devices are safe. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take proper precautions. “At-home laser hair removal can be safe,” says Dr. Lal. However, he adds, “It is not universally safe because many factors play a role in safety. All available devices are safe for those with light skin and dark hair.” Needless to say, burns and redness can still occur with less powerful at-home devices. Contact a doctor if you are concerned or notice any discomfort or irritation.
Dr. Lal has a few helpful tips to make removal easier and safer: “Be sure to have tiny stubble the laser can pick up for treatment. Make sure the device you are using is suitable for your skin color and hair color. Don’t use the laser if you have red or very light blonde hair. Don’t over-pulse the laser in the same location as this could lead to burns.”
Which is the best in-office laser?
For in-office treatments, “The gold standard is the Gentlemax Pro by Candela. It is a dual alexandrite and Nd-Yag laser that can treat all skin types, hairs of various sizes, and in various locations,” says Dr. Lal.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund spoke with experts and industry leaders about at-home laser hair removal devices and tested a few top-rated products. Freund and ELLE.com editor Nerisha Penrose pored over reviews for the best at-home devices, evaluating each based on its features and customer feedback.
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