Is it time to upgrade your workshop with a jointer and planer in one? We discuss the benefits and drawbacks, as well as recommend some of the finest machines on the market today.

Buying rough timber is an excellent way to save money and gain access to unique species. However, you must make sure to do your homework or you might end up with a subpar outcome. One half, known as the face, must be flattened first. In order to ensure that the measured values are based on real surfaces, another edge is machined at a right angle to the face side.

In order to get a smooth surface and a perfectly precise corner, a jointer is used. If required, it can also bevel the edge. After that, you can use a planer (also known as a thickness planer) to bring the wood down to the desired thickness and make the opposite edge parallel to the first.

Converting a jointer and a planer into a single device is what combination tools do. However, they are often misconstrued despite their usefulness and potential for reducing clutter. In this article, you will learn about the benefits and drawbacks of jointer planer combos, as well as the most important features and our recommendations for the best jointer planer combination for different purposes.

Before You Buy a Jointer Planer Combo

Although the finest jointer planer combinations provide woodworkers with a number of benefits, a cursory examination of the market reveals that they can also be purchased separately. You should consider the benefits and cons of a jointer planer combo before making a purchase.

The combination of a jointer and a planer appears to be a brilliant concept at first. For the residential user or one-person woodshop, having just one machine instead of two can be a space-saver. Additionally, they may be less expensive. (but not always). Only one machine requires regular servicing, and only one set of blades will ever wear out.

While the process of changing from a jointer to a planer is typically simple, it does slow down output. This is especially important when sharing a device with a colleague. As a result, if two people want to use the jointer at the same time, one of them will have to wait, and possibly restart the function.

Another possible downside to using a single cutting block (which we’ll get into shortly) is that more frequent blade replacement will be required. Besides being expensive, this is also a significant time commitment.

Examining the benefits and drawbacks of a jointer planer combination will help you decide if it’s a good investment for your workshop.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Jointer Planer Combo

It’s no secret that when you combine a jointer and a planer into one machine, a whole new set of technological requirements and practical considerations arise. We have broken these down into manageable chunks that will provide a thorough introduction to the possibilities of any jointer planer combo.

Size and Weight

A jointer planer combo can save valuable floor room compared to keeping two separate machines. That doesn’t, however, imply that they are miniature. However, larger versions can weigh more than 500 pounds and have a bed length of over 4 feet.

While it’s not essential to measure the space available before acquiring a portable planer, doing so is crucial when deciding where to install a jointer planer. You should also know that the device might call for some setup on your part. It’s not too hard to put together, but you might need assistance lifting the parts.

Power and Speed

While most power tools are measured in amps, jointer/planer combinations typically use horsepower. (hp). Large devices can have as much as 5 hp, while most are no more than 1 hp.

However, you should still double-check the voltage and amp number before beginning installation. You can expect no more than 15 amps at 110 volts from a normal household plug. (V). The 220/230V output of some of these combination instruments is higher, so an additional or upgraded power source is required.

There are two measures of jointer planer speed:

• Feeding rates are listed in feet per minute. (fpm). The planer’s maximum feed speed is this. Faster rates allow for more efficient work.
• The RPM of the cutterhead (or cutter block) is the unit of measurement. (rpm). The higher the cutterhead’s rotational speed, the finer the resulting surface. But you have to think about how many weapons (also known as knives) there are.

Blades and Cutterhead Styles

Two or three long blades, typically made of high-speed steel, reside in the cutterhead of a standard jointer planer. (HSS). Total cuts per minute are calculated by multiplying cutterhead speed by knife count. Consequently, a two-knife cutterhead operating at 9,000 rpm produces 18,000 incisions per minute. A three-knife cutterhead rotates at a slower 5,500 revolutions per minute, but produces the same number of cuts (16,500) and is presumably quieter in operation.

The helical (or spiral) cutterhead is an improvement over previous designs; it can have as many as 56 tiny square blades arranged in rows that curve around the head. Tungsten carbide is commonly used because it outlasts HSS in terms of sharpness. Since the helical pattern provides cutting edges nearly constantly, the surface quality can be very high. It gets so excellent that sanding is unnecessary sometimes.

The square blades can be easily sharpened by loosening them and rotating them. Yet, ultimately, they will all have to be replaced, and doing so is a laborious process. In addition to being more costly overall, machines with helical cutterheads are also more labor-intensive.

Bed Width and Cutting Depth

The greatest size of board that can be joined or planed on a jointer/planer combo is typically determined by the bed width of the machine. It’s also a good idea to measure the length of the bed, as most machines can accommodate beds of 8, 10, or 12 inches. Sniping, in which the cutter tears a large chunk out of the board at the beginning or end of the cut, can be avoided by using a bed that is longer than the board being cut. On the other hand, this changes how much actual room is needed.

In most cases, the maximum depth of cut for a jointer/planer combination is 1/8 inch. However, in order to achieve a more polished appearance, the end cut is typically shallower.

Build Material

Important aspects of jointer planer combinations include the tables and fence. Both of these components are typically made of extruded metal on inexpensive machines. As a result, the weight and the price are decreased. They may flex or twist, which would compromise precision, so reinforcement webs are installed. Sheet metal may be used on certain versions. This is a more cost-effective and long-lasting alternative to metal, but it may develop rust spots over time.

In most cases, the tables on the finest jointer planer combos will be cast iron, while the fences will be made of aluminum. It’s very heavy, but it’s also very rigid and absorbs machine vibration, both of which contribute to greater accuracy.

Budget versions may have plastic casing or stands, but most are made of steel. While it won’t hold up well in a busy workshop, most harm will likely be superficial rather than functional.

Stand Type

The benchtop design of the smallest of our top choices for jointer planer combos makes it ideal for home workshops and other spaces with limited floor space. In any case, the vast majority of them feature a convenient base.

Lighter versions may have a table-like stand made of a few pieces of steel that are bolted together. A wrench should be used on them periodically because they can become slack with use.

It’s possible that the stand’s cabinet doors will be closed if the machine is particularly big. These help keep sawdust out of the planer gear and provide the necessary support for cast-iron tables. Usually, they don’t provide any sort of storing space.

Dust Collection

In terms of scrap, jointer planer combinations aren’t very efficient. Dust from sawdust and wood fragments can easily spread throughout a building if proper measures aren’t taken to contain it. Dust in the air is not only a nuisance to clear up, but it can also damage varnished surfaces and pose a health risk.

Every model of jointer planer includes a hose adapter so that it can be used with a standard vacuum cleaner or a more powerful dust collector. As diameters can differ between versions, it’s wise to double-check those in your search. Additionally, converters that won’t break the bank are easily accessible.

Our Top Picks

Here, we’ll take a look at some real-world instances that showcase the aforementioned characteristics. The best jointer planer combos are listed alphabetically by category to make it simpler to find the right one for you.

Review

Jet JJP-12 12″ Planer/Jointer – BEST OVERALL

Recognizing that different woodworkers have different requirements, selecting the best jointer planer combo is a challenging job. The Jet 12-inch model is just one example of the company’s commitment to producing high-quality machinery; it features a robust design, powerful performance, and a well-known ease of switching between uses.

The three-knife cutterhead is powered by a 3 horsepower TEFC (totally enclosed fan-cooled) engine, and it can cut as deep as 1/8 inch in a single pass. The maximum rate of feed is 20 fpm. Cast iron tables 55 inches in length hold even the heaviest of stock reliably while you get the job done. Having a steel cupboard as a foundation is ideal. When switching between modes, the power button will not work to prevent accidents. In the case of a power outage, the machine must be manually restarted to prevent any unwanted activation. Jointing and planing can both benefit from a dust outlet that measures 4 inches in diameter.

When compared to similar models, the Jet JJP-12 jointer planer combination offers some of the best value. The JJP-12HH, which has a helix cutterhead but is significantly more expensive, is an option for those who place a premium on precision and aesthetics.

Product Specs

• Power: 3 hp, 230V, 12.5 amps
• Cutterhead: 5,500 rpm 3-knife cutterhead
• Weight: 500 pounds

Pros

• Cast-iron tables
• Easy-to-use controls
• Rapid change between functions

Cons

• Requires upgraded supply
• Knife quality could be better

Jet JJP-10BTOS 10″ Jointer/Planer Combo – BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

To sum it up, the Jet JJP-10BTOS 10′′ Jointer/Planer Combo is a fantastic compromise between quality and cost. It can be used on a kitchen counter or in the stand that’s included, and it’s powered by regular domestic current. Both amateur and expert woodworkers may find this tool to be useful.

The feed rate of the two-knife cutterhead is 1912 inches per feed per minute, and its speed is 9,000 revolutions per minute. In jointer mode, the deepest possible incision is 1/8 inch, and in planer mode, it’s 5/64 inch. The transition is quick and painless. There is a dust outlet that measures at 2.25 inches, and an adapter that converts 2.25 inches to four inches is included.

Tables are 36 inches long, which is sufficient for supporting workpieces; however, they are made of metal and steel rather than cast iron, so the machine is not quite as rigid. The plus aspect is that getting around isn’t too difficult. The stand is a bit of a pain to put together, and it’ll need frequent checks to make sure the nuts don’t come loose. There are a few things that could be improved upon, but overall the Jet JJP-10BTOS jointer planer combination is an excellent buy for the money.

Product Specs

• Power: 120V, 13 amps
• Cutterhead: 9,000 rpm 2-knife cutterhead
• Weight: 74 pounds

Pros

• Benchtop or stand use
• Very competitive performance
• Great value

Cons

• Aluminum and steel tables
• Stand could be more robust

Rikon 25-210H 12″ Helical Planer/Jointer – UPGRADE PICK

The Rikon 25-210H spiral cutterhead is the primary selling point of this jointer/planer combination. It has 56 carbide blades in four tiers, spinning at 5,000 rpm. The ensuing 20,000 cuts per minute yields a mirror-like finish without the need for any additional sanding. This is a highly efficient engine, and its feed rate of 23 fpm only adds to that. The maximum thickness that can be made with either the jointer or the planer is 1/8 of an inch.

The engine is a powerful 3 horsepower unit that operates on a 220 volt supply. The cast-iron table that measures 55 12 inches in diameter is perfect for supporting your task. This, along with a robust metal cabinet, creates the foundation required for productive labor. There is a 4-inch dust outlet installed.

Pros can get the results they need from the Rikon 25-210H jointer planer combination, but occasionally there are issues with quality control. Setup can be more challenging if the fence comes free or if the controls have wiggle room. Although most problems are easily resolved, the high cost may leave some proprietors feeling cheated.

Product Specs

• Power: 3 hp, 220V, 12 amps
• Cutterhead: 5,000 rpm helical (4 rows)
• Weight: 494 pounds

Pros

• Creates very smooth surfaces
• High productivity
• Solid build

Cons

• Requires upgraded supply
• Sometimes frustrating to set up

JET JJP-8BT 8″ Planer/Jointer Combo – BEST PORTABLE

Benchtop machines that can be tucked away out of sight are perfect for home woodworkers who are short on space. The Jet JJP-8BT jointer planer combination is ideal for this purpose because it weighs only 58 pounds and has a 29-inch long table. Plus, it’s portable enough for builders to use on the job.

The Jet JJP-8BT packs strong efficiency into a small package. It looks like the same engine that powers the 10-inch Jet jointer planer. With a flow rate of 1912 in. per minute, it powers the two-knife cutterhead at 18,000 cpm. Cuts can go no deeper than 3/32 of an inch.

The tables on this jointer planer combo are made of extruded aluminum and sheet metal, as would be anticipated on a machine of this price point. As with the tall fence, they are of satisfactory construction and provide adequate support for the workpiece. It can be a bit of a pain to balance them out, though. A 2.1-inch adapter is included with the 4-inch dust port for use with industrial vacuums.

Product Specs

• Power: 120V, 13 amps
• Cutterhead: 9,000 rpm 2-knife cutterhead
• Weight: 58 pounds

Pros

• Ideal for home workshops
• Tall fence gives good support
• Competitive price

Cons

• Fiddly table adjustment
• Plastic casing

Grizzly G0634X – 12″ 5 HP Planer/Jointer – BEST WITH HELICAL CUTTER

The Grizzly jointer planer combo lives up to the brand’s name for high-quality, long-lasting tools by providing the kind of professional-grade performance only those in the trade can appreciate. The 5-hp engine is incredibly powerful and dependable. The cast-iron tables are 59 and a half inches in length, so even the heaviest of loads can be safely supported. The sturdy cupboard provides additional stability.

At a flow rate of 22 feet per minute, the cutterhead’s four rows of 48 blades produce 20,136 cuts per minute. Out of the machine, the grade of the finish is very high. The speed with which you can switch between functions is another way in which your output is boosted. There is a 4-inch dust hole for debris.

Heavy and cumbersome, the Grizzly G0634X jointer planer combination is better suited for use in a professional setting. The helix head machine is surprisingly reasonably priced.

Product Specs

• Power: 5 hp, 220V, 25 amps
• Cutterhead: 5,034 rpm helical (4 rows) cutterhead
• Weight: 610 pounds

Pros

• Heavy-duty power and construction
• Helical cutterhead for fine finishing
• Very competitive price

Cons

• Requires upgraded supply
• Very heavy

Ridgid 6⅛” Jointer/Planer – ALSO CONSIDER

Unfortunately, even Ridgid’s own website gives an inaccurate description of the Jointer/Planer. In spite of its high quality, adaptability, and unique characteristics, this tool is not a jointer planer. It’s a jointer, not a planer, as can be seen immediately upon inspection due to the lack of a thicknessing feature.

Nonetheless, it’s still a top-notch piece of equipment. Cast-iron worktables dampen noise and disturbance for precise, trouble-free cutting. The 45-inch length is perfect for securing workpieces. The dual bevel fence has quick-stops at 45 and 90 degrees, allowing you to adjust angles up to 135 degrees. It is possible to rabbet up to half an inch. A durable steel cupboard can hold all of your tools securely.

Thanks to the motor’s ability to accept either standard household current or the higher voltage found in modern commercial shops, it can be used with either type of power source. Less heat is generated at 120/240V, and more power is delivered to the engine (without affecting its speed). The highest thickness that can be cut with the three-knife cutterhead is 1/8 inch, and the maximum speed is 5,000 revolutions per minute.

The 618-inch planing width is narrower than what you’d find on some other models, and we’ll say it again: there is no planer feature. Because of this, the Ridgid jointer is more costly than other similar tools.

Product Specs

• Power: 1 hp, 120V or 240V, 6 or 12 amps
• Cutterhead: 3,450 rpm 3-knife cutterhead
• Weight: 213 pounds

Pros

• Heavy-duty construction
• Can run off household supply
• Useful onboard tool storage

Cons

• No planer function
• Modest table width

Our Verdict

The Jet JJP-12 12′′ Planer/Jointer is an affordable option for a machine of its size thanks to its remarkable capacity and high precision. However, most house workshops probably won’t have enough room for it. The Jet JJP-10BTOS 10′′ Jointer/Planer Combo is a great option for those on a tighter budget, and the reduced price is at least in part attributable to the high quality of the tool’s construction. While not as cost-effective for large commercial operations, it is a great deal for hobbyists and smaller professional workshops.

How We Chose the Best Jointer Planer Combos

Engineer by training, I also owned and operated a successful woodworking business for ten years. I’ve had plenty of expertise with and knowledge of these machines. The Bob Vila team did the study on the industry’s top brands and the most recent offerings to back up my own observations.

Given the limited selection of high-quality jointer/planer combos in the United States, it was necessary to come up with workable options that would appeal to the widest possible audience.

Each recommended product is manufactured by a well-known company. As an added bonus, we’ve chosen models that we believe to be the finest jointer planer combos across a wide price range, making them accessible to everyone from weekend warriors to tradespeople.

FAQs

The above is an all-encompassing guide to the technical elements of the top jointer planer combos, complete with illustrations and illustrations. We’ve covered some of the most common inquiries we’ve gotten about these devices, but more general inquiries come up frequently as well. We’ve included answers to some frequently asked questions to help streamline your hunt for the right resource.

What’s the difference between a jointer and a planer?

A piece of timber can have its face leveled and an edge planed to 90 degrees with the help of a jointer. Bevels (chamfers) of various angles, such as 45 degrees, can also be made. The stock’s thickness and its parallel edges are both planed to the desired dimensions using a planer. It’s because of this that thickness planers are a common name for these machines.

Can I use a jointer as a planer?

Rough stock can be planed flat with a jointer, and once that’s done, the stock can be flipped over and planed on the other side. However, planing each side individually may not eliminate the twist if the board has any curve or twist to it. For this purpose, a planer is the best tool for the task. Both machines, or a jointer planer combo, are required for those who wish to deal with rough lumber.

Can a table saw be used as a jointer?

An edge can be squared (and various joints cut) with a table saw, but only if the wood is flat to begin with. It can’t be used to fix a crooked nose or chin.

Is a jointer planer combo worth it?

Whether or not you should invest in a jointer planer combo depends on the scope and scale of your woodworking projects, as well as the available storage room. In the preceding article, we weighed the benefits and drawbacks, and provided recommendations for tools and supplies in a range of sizes and price ranges to satisfy the needs of most woodworkers.

Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Products 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API