There are a lot of hair removal techniques available today, but unfortunately, none of them are completely effective. Many people who dislike the temporary solutions of waxing or shaving (due to the risk of ingrown hairs or razor burn) have turned to the irreversible solution of laser hair removal.
It can be expensive to have laser hair removal done properly, but there are a number of devices available for purchase online that can achieve similar results at a fraction of the cost. Knowing that the thought of lasering your face or body can be intimidating, we chatted to dermatologists to find out everything you need to know about at-home laser hair removal devices. When compiling this list, we prioritized devices that had been verified as secure by the FDA, had adequate safeguards in place, and had received positive feedback from users.
Are you ready to permanently remove that pesky hair? Check out this list of the top-rated laser hair removal machines for the house.
Our Top Picks
- Braun Latest Generation IPL. Long-lasting Hair reduction in just 3 months*.
- The safest IPL technology. Clinically tested and dermatologically accredited as skin safe by an international skin health organization (Skin Health Alliance)
- SMART IPL with SensoAdaptTM skin sensor (with UV protection): the only IPL technology that automatically and continuously adapts to your skin tone
- Fast treatment: treat both legs in just 9 minutes at the lowest energy level. 2 times faster than the previous Silk·expert 3. Includes precision head, premium bag and Venus razor
- New compact design, 15% smaller and 25% lighter, for easy handling and effortless treatment. 300,000 flashes, 20% more than previous Silk·expert 3
- PAINLESS & EASY TO USE: At home system can be used with any skin type and on the face, legs, arms, upper lip and bikini line.
- SIMPLE PROCESS THAT WORKS: The 12 week treatment at-home hair removal devices uses a technology which uses pulses of light to permantely remove undesired hair growth without stubble, ingrown hairs, redness or other irritation.
- NO MORE EXPENSIVE TRIPS TO THE SALON: Save time and money and get the same results as a professional salon treatment. No more struggles with old-fashioned hair removal processes like shaving, plucking or waxing
- WORKS ON ALL SKIN TYPES: Suitable for many different hair colors and skin types and leaves skin smooth and supple.We recommend you don’t use this device when you’re pregnant or nursing
- NO REFILLS REQUIRED: Unlimited flashes in one device. Never have to worry about replacing your cartridge.
- Powered by patented Dual-Wave technology, the TOUCH Permanent Hair Reduction System contains the only FDA-cleared technology for permanent results on all skin tones.
- Used by dermatologists around the world, it is clinically proven to be effective on the widest range of hair colors, even on blond, dark blond and red hair.
- Significantly reduce the growth and appearance of body hair with the iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction Device.
- A precision adapter allows for use on all skin areas, including the armpit.
- Reduces hair by up to 94% after 7 weeks of regular treatments
- From the world’s leading experts in IPL – The safest, fastest and most advanced IPL technology for permanent hair reduction. Made in the UK by the leaders in IPL; over 30 years’ experience.
- VISIBLE HAIR REDUCTION IN JUST 4 WEEKS - SmoothSkin Bare+ delivers up to 4J/cm2 of energy per flash giving you permanent hair reduction that can be seen in as little as 4 weeks.
- ULTRAFAST IPL TREATMENT - Treat your whole body including your lower and upper legs, bikini line and underarms in as little as 10 minutes.
- PAINLESS – Designed for comfort, each flash feels like a warm tingle.
- SAFE & FDA CLEARED – Unique safety sensors measure your skin tone before each flash and will only activate if it’s safe. Advanced UV filters protect your skin from harmful rays. FDA cleared and compliant with international medical, ethical and safety standards. Over 3,000 clinical treatments performed for total peace of mind.
- BoSidin is the first to introduce medical-grade technologies used in cosmetic centers into at-home hair removal devices. OPT strengthens each effective pulse, giving you the same intensity normally only found in medical hair removal devices. Light strikes follicles deep at the root, easily removing even the toughest hair. By rapidly emitting soft pulses of light, medical-grade continuous pulse technology allows heat to build up at the root and effectively suppress hair regrowth.
- BoSidin worked with a team of experts in the field of medical beauty to develop a revolutionary new hair removal system, one that targets and removes hair in each region of the body differently (face, body, arms, underarms, legs, bikini line, etc.). With the touch of a button, to get a precise, effective and professional medical-grade hair removal.
- The original dynamic cooling device precools the skin immediately before the hair removal. This make hair removal completely painless, even the most sensitive areas are safe to use. The DCD finally makes hair removal a one-step process - no gels, creams or ice packs needed.
- Double function in a single device, designed for the unremitting pursuit of beauty. Device adopted photo rejuvenation light source which emits a three-layer, infrared light to activate collagen, reduce wrinkles and restore skin’s elasticity. BoSidin is your best choice of exquisite life, the device won the 2020 German Red Dot Design Award with its luxury appearance and high-quality.
- Flexible and convenient ergonomic design with one touch to auto-flash mode brings you the smoothest and fastest operating experience. The precision head can rotates 180 degrees in both directions, help you access difficult-to-reach places. Full-body hair removal as fast as 15 minutes.
- BREAK THE CYCLE OF HAIR REGROWTH - This innovative permanent hair removal device from Sensica is the next generation in IPL hair removal. Our RPL (Reactive Pulsed Light) technology makes the hair remove safer and more comfortable. 6 adjustable energy settings with energy recommendations ensuring gentle and effective treatment, clinically proven results and FDA cleared, this is a unique and effective product for home use.
- YOU CAN’T ARGUE WITH SUCCESS - 98% of all those polled said that they had hair reduction after just 8 treatments. The high-performance integrated quartz lamp of this painless hair remover, delivers unlimited flashes and disables hair regrowth from the source. The heat of the absorbed light of this home-use face and body hair remover device dissipates into the follicle, generating a thermal effect which causes a long-term reduction in hair growth.
- SUITABLE FOR USE ON BODY AND FACE - SENSILIGHT PRO comprises 2 useges windows: THE LARGE WINDOW (1.8”2) - The largest available today, enabling faster treatments on larger areas. THE SMALL WINDOW (0.8”2) - Especially designed for small areas such as the upper lip, chin and jawline. 600 flashes between charges (enough for a full-body treatment).
- AN AMAZING GIFT - This handheld, cordless and portable, ergonomically designed face and body hair removing tool is the ultimate gift for yourself or for someone you love. Both women and men will enjoy using this easy, painless and efficient hair reduction tool on their personal hair areas. For that special someone in your life this is the perfect birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift.
- FOR BEAUTY THAT IS REAL - At Sensica we focus our efforts not only on developing devices that really do work and make you feel your best, but on really being there for you. With this rechargeable IPL device, you receive a 2-YEARS GUARANTEE as well as our in-depth unique knowledge of powerful skin technology, free face to face video advice and useful tips to make sure you achieve real beauty results. BUY YOURS TODAY and enjoy affordable hair removal in the comfort of your own home.
- Farewell to Unwanted Hair: Work toward permanent hair removal with the Hair Removal Laser Precision and its powerful lasers
- Precise Laser Hair Removal: The Hair Removal Laser Precision is FDA-cleared for small areas like bikini area, underarm, and face
- FDA-Cleared Skin Care Products: The Hair Removal Laser Precision is safe, easy-to-use device; gives you professional results at home
- Cordless with Rechargeable Batteries: Never miss a treatment with the ultra-portable Hair Removal Laser Precision
- Have Beautiful Skin with Tria: Get the beautiful skin you've always dreamed of with Tria’s easy-to-use, FDA-approved skin care devices
Review
SmoothSkin Pure IPL Hair Removal Device – Best Overall
What We Love: You can customize the energy, comfort level, and speed.
What We Don’t Love: There’s a bit of a learning curve with all the different settings.
With over 30 years of experience, it’s no surprise that SmoothSkin’s Pure Fit device, which has been approved for use by the FDA, is a top contender in the competitive field of laser hair removal. In addition to a maximum of ten energy levels, three distinct comfort options (power, speed, and gentle), and two distinct operating settings (stamp, and glide) allow you to tailor your massage to your specific needs and preferences. The precision head allows you to reach hard-to-reach spots like the bikini line, upper lip, and even the tips of your fingers and toenails. With its built-in skin sensor, it automatically adjusts to your skin tone and avoids accidental activation. The manufacturer suggests using it once per week for 12 weeks, and then every other week or so to keep the effects lasting.
- Type: IPL
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 2 years
Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X – Best Splurge
What We Love: It uses salon-style technology at FDA-cleared levels.
What We Don’t Love: The small laser makes covering large areas tedious.
Due to its “use of diode technology, which is the same that is used in the office,” dermatologist and Tria Hair Removal Laser proponent Dr. Joshua Zeichner enthusiastically endorses this product. However, the reduced power output makes it safe for use in the house. The FDA-approved gadget’s laser cap is smaller than those of competing products, allowing it to hit hair follicles with greater precision while emitting progressively less strong light over its range of five settings. And if your skin isn’t the right color, the device won’t unlock when you place it on your body, thanks to its ingenious sensor that glows green if you’re a good match. There is a 60-day return clause so you can give it a shot without any commitment.
- Type: Laser
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 1 year
Braun Silk expert Pro 3 PL3111 Permanent Hair Removal System – Best for Body
- Braun Latest Generation IPL. Long-lasting Hair reduction in just 3 months*.
- The safest IPL technology. Clinically tested and dermatologically accredited as skin safe by an international skin health organization (Skin Health Alliance)
- SMART IPL with SensoAdaptTM skin sensor (with UV protection): the only IPL technology that automatically and continuously adapts to your skin tone
- Fast treatment: treat both legs in just 9 minutes at the lowest energy level. 2 times faster than the previous Silk·expert 3. Includes precision head, premium bag and Venus razor
- New compact design, 15% smaller and 25% lighter, for easy handling and effortless treatment. 300,000 flashes, 20% more than previous Silk·expert 3
What We Love: It’s simple to transition from targeting small areas to large areas with this laser.
What We Don’t Love: It can burn darker skin tones.
The Braun Silk Expert System is a scientifically proven, at-home hair removal treatment that employs intense pulsed light (IPL). The FDA-approved gadget is not only effective (both legs can be treated in nine minutes), but it also has a long lifespan (over 300,000 flashes is the equivalent of 16 years of treatments). With the precision head, even hard-to-reach places, like the bikini line or armpits, can be zapped with simplicity. The SensoAdaptTM sensor automatically detects your skin tone and adjusts the strobe power accordingly, providing an additional layer of protection. To make things even easier, a Venus razor is included in the package for pre-treatment shaving.
- Type: IPL
- Flashes: 300,000
Silk’n Laser Hair Removal System – Best for Coarse Hair
- PAINLESS & EASY TO USE: At home system can be used with any skin type and on the face, legs, arms, upper lip and bikini line.
- SIMPLE PROCESS THAT WORKS: The 12 week treatment at-home hair removal devices uses a technology which uses pulses of light to permantely remove undesired hair growth without stubble, ingrown hairs, redness or other irritation.
- NO MORE EXPENSIVE TRIPS TO THE SALON: Save time and money and get the same results as a professional salon treatment. No more struggles with old-fashioned hair removal processes like shaving, plucking or waxing
- WORKS ON ALL SKIN TYPES: Suitable for many different hair colors and skin types and leaves skin smooth and supple.We recommend you don’t use this device when you’re pregnant or nursing
- NO REFILLS REQUIRED: Unlimited flashes in one device. Never have to worry about replacing your cartridge.
What We Love: Coarse hair is more easily reached thanks to the advanced technology used.
What We Don’t Love: The light sensor can be a little finicky.
Using galvanic energy, this gadget opens your pores so the light can penetrate deeper into the hair follicle, where the thick, stubborn hairs are located. Since it rapidly recharges thanks to its quartz bulb, it can produce more vibrations in less time. Eight treatments are recommended to achieve the advertised 92% decrease in hair growth, but some customers report seeing fantastic results in even less time. There is a skin sensor built into the FDA-approved device to prohibit the use of unsafe levels; however, some customers have complained that the device does not flash because it does not accurately detect their skin. In addition, we like that this tool includes a companion app for monitoring therapy progress and setting reminders.
- Type: IPL
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 1 year
ILUMINAGE TOUCH Permanent Hair Reduction System – Best for Dark Skin
- Powered by patented Dual-Wave technology, the TOUCH Permanent Hair Reduction System contains the only FDA-cleared technology for permanent results on all skin tones.
- Used by dermatologists around the world, it is clinically proven to be effective on the widest range of hair colors, even on blond, dark blond and red hair.
- Significantly reduce the growth and appearance of body hair with the iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction Device.
- A precision adapter allows for use on all skin areas, including the armpit.
- Reduces hair by up to 94% after 7 weeks of regular treatments
What We Love: This device is FDA-cleared on all skin tones.
What We Don’t Love: You need to buy replacement cartridges once the flashes run out.
It can be challenging to locate a safe laser device for home use if you have darker skin. Iluminage uses elos technology, a combination of IPL and radio frequency, to treat a wider range of skin tones and hair hues without causing any adverse effects. The device has been tried on people with a wide range of skin tones and has received FDA clearance. It is of a moderate size and can be adjusted to one of three power settings, making it suitable for use in both big and little spaces. According to the company, a clinical trial showed that after just two treatments, 46% of hair was gone. Bear in mind that the gadget only comes with 120,000 flashes and that additional cartridges must be purchased separately.
- Type: EOS
- Flashes: 120,000
- Warranty: 1 year
SmoothSkin Bare Plus Ultrafast IPL Laser Permanent Hair Removal – Fastest Option
- From the world’s leading experts in IPL – The safest, fastest and most advanced IPL technology for permanent hair reduction. Made in the UK by the leaders in IPL; over 30 years’ experience.
- VISIBLE HAIR REDUCTION IN JUST 4 WEEKS - SmoothSkin Bare+ delivers up to 4J/cm2 of energy per flash giving you permanent hair reduction that can be seen in as little as 4 weeks.
- ULTRAFAST IPL TREATMENT - Treat your whole body including your lower and upper legs, bikini line and underarms in as little as 10 minutes.
- PAINLESS – Designed for comfort, each flash feels like a warm tingle.
- SAFE & FDA CLEARED – Unique safety sensors measure your skin tone before each flash and will only activate if it’s safe. Advanced UV filters protect your skin from harmful rays. FDA cleared and compliant with international medical, ethical and safety standards. Over 3,000 clinical treatments performed for total peace of mind.
What We Love: You can laser your entire body in just 10 minutes.
What We Don’t Love: You need to use it more frequently than others.
It’s great that modern gadgets have so many customization options, but sometimes it’s nice to have a straightforward interface that you can master fast. We recommend SmoothSkin’s Bare +, which is the streamlined form of their Best Overall product. With a compact design that provides 100 flashes per minute, you can treat your entire body in about 10 minutes. This is made possible by the brand’s powerful, FDA-cleared IPL technology and safety skin sensor. It only has two settings, stamp and slide, rather than varying strengths and comfort levels. If you don’t mind consistent but brief sessions, this gadget is for you. However, it does take a little more consistency than the Pure Fit (treatment every 2-4 weeks for maintenance).
- Type: IPL
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 2 years
BoSidin Permanent Hair Removal – Best for Bikini Line
- BoSidin is the first to introduce medical-grade technologies used in cosmetic centers into at-home hair removal devices. OPT strengthens each effective pulse, giving you the same intensity normally only found in medical hair removal devices. Light strikes follicles deep at the root, easily removing even the toughest hair. By rapidly emitting soft pulses of light, medical-grade continuous pulse technology allows heat to build up at the root and effectively suppress hair regrowth.
- BoSidin worked with a team of experts in the field of medical beauty to develop a revolutionary new hair removal system, one that targets and removes hair in each region of the body differently (face, body, arms, underarms, legs, bikini line, etc.). With the touch of a button, to get a precise, effective and professional medical-grade hair removal.
- The original dynamic cooling device precools the skin immediately before the hair removal. This make hair removal completely painless, even the most sensitive areas are safe to use. The DCD finally makes hair removal a one-step process - no gels, creams or ice packs needed.
- Double function in a single device, designed for the unremitting pursuit of beauty. Device adopted photo rejuvenation light source which emits a three-layer, infrared light to activate collagen, reduce wrinkles and restore skin’s elasticity. BoSidin is your best choice of exquisite life, the device won the 2020 German Red Dot Design Award with its luxury appearance and high-quality.
- Flexible and convenient ergonomic design with one touch to auto-flash mode brings you the smoothest and fastest operating experience. The precision head can rotates 180 degrees in both directions, help you access difficult-to-reach places. Full-body hair removal as fast as 15 minutes.
What We Love: The head easily rotates to reach all areas of the bikini line.
What We Don’t Love: The buttons are so close together you may hit both by accident.
Shaving one’s bikini line is a challenge for anyone who has ever attempted it; it can feel like a form of gymnastics trying to get to all the inaccessible areas. This gadget has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and features a head that can rotate a full 180 degrees, allowing for access to any and all angles. The cooling function is also helpful for soothing sore muscles and decreasing redness and swelling. The same optimal pulse technology used by laser and IPL systems is at the heart of this device’s operation, allowing for precise control over both energy output and frequency. The modern shape is comfortable to hold and gives the impression that you’ve taken the beauty parlor into your own bathroom.
- Type: OPT
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: None
Sensica Pro Permanent Cordless Hair Removal Device Unlimited Flashed for Women – Best Cordless
- BREAK THE CYCLE OF HAIR REGROWTH - This innovative permanent hair removal device from Sensica is the next generation in IPL hair removal. Our RPL (Reactive Pulsed Light) technology makes the hair remove safer and more comfortable. 6 adjustable energy settings with energy recommendations ensuring gentle and effective treatment, clinically proven results and FDA cleared, this is a unique and effective product for home use.
- YOU CAN’T ARGUE WITH SUCCESS - 98% of all those polled said that they had hair reduction after just 8 treatments. The high-performance integrated quartz lamp of this painless hair remover, delivers unlimited flashes and disables hair regrowth from the source. The heat of the absorbed light of this home-use face and body hair remover device dissipates into the follicle, generating a thermal effect which causes a long-term reduction in hair growth.
- SUITABLE FOR USE ON BODY AND FACE - SENSILIGHT PRO comprises 2 useges windows: THE LARGE WINDOW (1.8”2) - The largest available today, enabling faster treatments on larger areas. THE SMALL WINDOW (0.8”2) - Especially designed for small areas such as the upper lip, chin and jawline. 600 flashes between charges (enough for a full-body treatment).
- AN AMAZING GIFT - This handheld, cordless and portable, ergonomically designed face and body hair removing tool is the ultimate gift for yourself or for someone you love. Both women and men will enjoy using this easy, painless and efficient hair reduction tool on their personal hair areas. For that special someone in your life this is the perfect birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift.
- FOR BEAUTY THAT IS REAL - At Sensica we focus our efforts not only on developing devices that really do work and make you feel your best, but on really being there for you. With this rechargeable IPL device, you receive a 2-YEARS GUARANTEE as well as our in-depth unique knowledge of powerful skin technology, free face to face video advice and useful tips to make sure you achieve real beauty results. BUY YOURS TODAY and enjoy affordable hair removal in the comfort of your own home.
What We Love: It’s rechargeable and cordless, so you can use it anywhere.
What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t come with sunglasses for the bright flashes.
It’s convenient to have a cordless choice for hair removal because most of these devices require being plugged in at all times. This apparatus has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and it features six voltage settings and two interchangeable heads. You can customize the energy level for your skin using IPL and a tone detector. It can produce an infinite number of flashes, but only lasts for about 600 before needing a recharge. Furthermore, both automated and manual settings are available.
- Type: IPL
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 1 year
Tria Hair Removal Laser Precision – Best for Face
- Farewell to Unwanted Hair: Work toward permanent hair removal with the Hair Removal Laser Precision and its powerful lasers
- Precise Laser Hair Removal: The Hair Removal Laser Precision is FDA-cleared for small areas like bikini area, underarm, and face
- FDA-Cleared Skin Care Products: The Hair Removal Laser Precision is safe, easy-to-use device; gives you professional results at home
- Cordless with Rechargeable Batteries: Never miss a treatment with the ultra-portable Hair Removal Laser Precision
- Have Beautiful Skin with Tria: Get the beautiful skin you've always dreamed of with Tria’s easy-to-use, FDA-approved skin care devices
What We Love: It’s easy to use this laser over small areas on the face.
What We Don’t Love: The battery only holds a 15-minute charge.
Select this Tria Beauty tool if you need to get into tighter spaces. Like the prior product in the line, this one is also powered by diode laser technology. Even so, it is smaller and lighter than its predecessor, making it easier to reach hairs on the upper lip, jawline, and bikini line. The company claims there are five different “energy levels,” and that after about eight applications, you’ll begin to feel the effects. You should know that the battery only lasts for 15 minutes, so use it wisely to rapidly zap small areas.
- Type: Laser
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Warranty: 1 year
What to Keep in Mind
Treatment Area
The primary consideration is the target region of the laser. It’s important to note that different devices are designed for different body parts; some are more suited to bigger areas like your legs and arms, while others are better suited to more intricate features like your face and/or bikini line. Look for a device with detachable heads of varying sizes and operating settings if you intend to use it on your entire body. Manual mode allows for more precise treatment of smaller areas, while automatic mode (constant flashes) makes it simple to target large areas quickly.
IPL vs. Laser
Instead of the lasers used in hairdressers, most at-home devices use IPL, or intense pulsed light. In comparison to lasers, IPL is typically dimmer and less focused. Dr. Mark McKenna, the Chief Medical Officer and Founder of OVME Aesthetics, says that at-home IPL is not as successful because it uses weaker and non-targeted energy. However, “at-home IPL may be an appropriate option for those with sensitive skin or sparse hair growth.” Brands like Tria create laser-equipped household appliances so that you can use their potency whenever you like.
Safety Features and Credentials
Dr. Zeichner recommends only using “trusted companies who have ideally published results of clinical evaluations of the devices themselves” when making a device purchase. Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends taking into account the product’s FDA approval and the favorable feedback from customers. Do not try to haggle or trade; the price is the price. A more expensive instrument will produce better results. “you want one with enough power/energy and as close to an in-office laser hair removal machine as you can,” says Dr. Jaliman about laser hair removal.
In addition to FDA clearance, you may want to prioritize the inclusion of additional safety features in any home devices you purchase. High-quality laser hair removal devices, according to Dr. McKenna, typically feature a skin tone sensor that only permits use when the skin tone in the treatment area is found to be a tone which can be treated safely. Skin contact sensors and pulse counters can also help minimize user error to keep treatments safe and consistent from treatment to treatment, ensuring patient safety and repeatability of outcomes.
A device with adjustable power settings is preferable so that you can discover the optimal setting for your skin type. Some tools also have a chilling function to alleviate discomfort.
Your Questions, Answered
How does laser hair removal work?
In order to completely prevent hair from growing back, laser hair removal involves using a beam of light to destroy the hair follicle at its base, as explained by Dr. Zeichner. There are pigment cells in the hair follicle, and they absorb the light specifically.
However, some soreness may be experienced during these procedures. “Like a rubber band snapping,” Dr. Jaliman describes the sensation. It’s going to hurt more as the machine gets more potent. It hurts more in certain spots than others. There’s really no reason to take any kind of medication for the discomfort. She recommends using a cold compress on the affected region immediately following treatment to alleviate any discomfort.
Is at-home laser hair removal safe?
Home laser hair removal systems are not as effective as professional clinic units. However, Dr. Jaliman insists that they are risk-free so long as they are used as directed. It is always wise to perform a tiny test on an inconspicuous area of skin before using a new skincare product or procedure on your entire face. Don’t start “zapping” it right away, she cautions, as the gadget may still be vulnerable to damage. By doing this, you endanger yourself of getting hurt or even scorching. Don’t over-treat the same spot multiple times; instead, focus on treating individual problem areas.
It’s important to keep in mind that not everyone will experience the same level of success with laser hair removal. When there is more of a difference in tone between the skin and the hair, laser and IPL hair removal devices perform the best. Dr. McKenna recommends energy-based hair reduction for patients who have coarse or terminal dark brown or black hair and lighter skin tones. Hair that is too fine (‘peach fuzz’) or too light in color (blonde, gray, or red) will not draw the laser’s follicle-destroying energy. Similarly, people with dark skin and hair may not have enough contrast for the hair to heat up and not the face.
Dr. McKenna warns that at-home devices can still cause irritation, hyperpigmentation, or even burns, particularly in darker or deeply-pigmented skin, despite being weaker than salon models. There has been an uptick in the number of manufacturers producing devices suitable for use on darker skin tones, though it is still wise to verify the manufacturer’s specifications and begin treatment at the lowest possible power level. If you are unsure as to whether lasers are appropriate for your skin, a salon expert can provide you with advice.
How do I use a laser?
Preparation and aftercare for laser hair removal are similar to those for other techniques. Dr. Zeichner warns against removing the hair’s base before laser treatment. Wash the face thoroughly, getting rid of any lotions or makeup, before using the laser.
All targeted regions must be shaved a day before laser treatment. Sun exposure, including the use of self-tanners, should be avoided for two weeks previous to treatments because it can cause darkening and burning of the skin. In addition to avoiding harsh soaps, you should also avoid using acid-based cleansers, peel pads, and topical retinoids in the time between procedures.
It is recommended that you refrain from wearing tight clothing, showering in hot water, or engaging in strenuous exercise for the next couple of days after therapy if you experience any skin irritation or redness. If hair begins to fall out as it regrows, it means the laser treatment is having the desired effect. Exfoliating the area carefully can help speed up the shedding process.
Consistent use of the laser for a few months, as recommended by the manufacturer (which may vary by device) is typically required before noticeable results are seen.
Are the results permanent?
A lot of people get laser treatments so they can stop shaving, but there’s no assurance that it will permanently get rid of all your hair.
Dr. McKenna warns that “multiple factors,” including hormone fluctuations, medications, device efficacy, and treatment consistency, can all influence the final outcome. At-home gadgets may necessitate periodic maintenance, targeted treatments, or even continuous care. While this may not be ideal, many women find it preferable to the hassle and discomfort of other hair removal methods like cutting, waxing, or tweezing.
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
