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 . Below you’ll find everything you need to know, plus Vogue’s tried and tested favourites for your smoothest shave yet. The best at-home laser hair removal devices at a glance: Best overall: Braun IPL Pro 7 Skin-i Expert 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. From exactly how to glide the tool over hair follicles to exactly when you’re due for another session, the Pro 7 Skin-i does all the thinking for you.
It signals when you’re using the incorrect attachment for the area you’re trying to treat and reads your skin tone continuously, only pulsing light when its sensors deem it safe. As well as a built-in fan to keep skin comfortably cool, the carry case includes a quality razor to prep the area for your session. By week four, you’ll find there is barely any hair left to remove.
It’s an absolute find for a lifetime of dolphin-smooth skin.“ – Tracy Achonwa, beauty writer Best laser-based device: Currentbody Skin Laser Hair Removal Device Read more: 12 Body Care Essentials That Will Elevate Your Everything Shower Routine Best with cooling technology: Ulike Sapphire Air 10 IPL Hair Removal Handset Best laser hair removal device for darker skin: Silk’n Infinity 400k Permanent Hair Removal Device Best with LED: JOVS Venus Pro Hair Remover Best powerful laser hair removal device: SmoothSkin Pure Mini Lite Best for intimate areas: Foreo Peach 2 Advanced IPL Hair Removal Device Best for travelling: Sensica Sensilight Pro Best for face and body hair removal: Philips Lumea IPL 8000 Series Prestige Best for most skin tones: Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System 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. 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.” It’s worth managing your expectations: Dr Bowles explains that laser devices result in permanent hair reduction rather than complete removal. “Results can vary between individuals.
In general treated hair may become finer, lighter, and grow slower, but it may not be completely removed” she adds. 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 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. “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 hair removal safe? At-home devices use lower energy levels than clinical devices, 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.
” 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.
Due to their action on melanin, many devices are generally not recommended as safe for use in those with dark (Fitzpatrick type 5 and 6) skin tones. When selecting an at-home laser hair removal device, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure safety, effectiveness, and convenience. Dr.
Bowles advises checking for FDA clearance, indicating the device has undergone safety and efficacy testing. “Ensure the device is suitable for your skin tone; some may not be effective or safe for darker skin tones,” she adds. Additionally, verify if the device is effective for your hair colour; certain devices may not work well on lighter hair colours like grey or blonde.
Decide whether you prefer a laser or IPL device; IPL emits broad-spectrum light pulses, while lasers use specific wavelengths and are generally more effective for permanent hair reduction. Look for devices with adjustable energy levels and settings to customise treatments based on your skin sensitivity and hair thickness. Dr.
Bowles also recommends using proper eye protection when using these devices at home since light may cause sensitivity..
