It's safe to say that getting rid of body hair is no easy feat. Waxing and shaving can become tedious, and those laser hair sessions at your local aesthetician are far from budget-friendly. Lucky for us, laser hair removal is no longer reserved for fancy treatment centres and spas - now, thanks to at-home laser devices, you can zing off your stubborn body hair from the comfort of your sofa.
Having said that, choosing a laser hair removal device can be tricky. The device best suited to you will depend on multiple factors including your skin tone, which parts of your body you're looking to laser, whether you're a beginner and more.
To help you out, we've created a list of the best laser hair removal and IPL devices on the market according to price, efficiency and real reviews. Before delving into the list, we've answered some important questions for you to read, before embarking on your at-home laser hair removal journey.
Related: The best hairdressing scissors for a professional cut at home
The best laser hair removal devices
All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall
PhilipsThis highly-rated IPL device by Phillips ticks all the boxes when it comes to at-home laser hair removal. Offering twelve months of hair-free smoothness, the device comes with three attachments for body, face and precision and is also equipped with a savvy SmartSkin Sensor that will indicate the most comfortable setting for your skin tone. It promises up to 92 per cent of hair reduction after just three treatments, and easy to use for beginners.
Pros
- Safe and easy to use at home
- Skin tone sensor to ensure safety
- Includes a precision pen for more delicate and difficult to reach areas
Cons
- It may require multiple sessions for optimal results
| Type of device: | IPL |
| Attatchments: | 4 smart curved attatchments |
| Cord: | Corded |
Best cordless
BraunBring the beauty salon straight to your home with Braun's Silk Expert IPL device. Clinically tested and dermatologically accredited, this device reads your skin tone and adapts each flash accordingly, to provide the safest, most effective hair removal. Ideal for every region of your body, the Braun Pro will leave you hair-free within just four weeks.
Pros
- Quick and easy to operate
- 10 intensity levels
- Smart IPL with SensoAdaptTM skin sensor
Cons
- Some users report discomfort from the heat
| Type of device: | IPL |
| Attatchments: | 2 |
| Cord: | Corded or cordless |
Best budget
ebayIf you're looking for at-home laser removal that won't break the bank, this XSOUL IPL Hair Removal System is by far the best option. Surprisingly sophisticated for the price tag, this device has five adjustable energy levels for you to choose from according to your skin tolerance. It offers a painless and gentle treatment method that will not hurt your skin. With two switchable modes depending on your needs, you can laser your legs, bikini and underarms with absolutely no hassle. Significant results are expected after three weeks.
Pros
- Safe and painless use
- Lightweight and comfortable to use
- 999,999 flashes certified for long-term use
Cons
- People with lighter hair may not find it functionable
| Device type: | IPL |
| Attatchments: | None |
| Cord: | Corded |
- 999k flashes and LCD display
- Five energy levels and two flash modes
- Auto and manual modes for use in sensitive areas
- Results are eight weeks
- Ice cooling function
The best for all skin tones
Best compact
Hairlessness is within reach, with the Silk'n hair removal device. Ergonomically designed and easy to handle, the HPL technology provides five power settings for differing pulse frequency. The up to date technology promises a painless experience and 92 per cent hair removal when sessions are complete. The complementary Silk'n app can also help you create your own treatment program, as well as schedule and keep track of your treatments, just as a beauty salon would.
Pros
- Compact design still delivers great results
- Rated for over 400,000 flashes, for long-term use
- Works well on multiple skin types
Cons
- Results can take a while to show up
| Device type: | IPL |
| Accessories: | None |
| Cord: | Corded |
Best design
JOVSAnother greatly reviewed laser hair removal device, which strikes follicles at the root and can remove even the most stubborn of hairs. Along with a hair removal setting, the JOVS device has specific settings for each area of the body, which increases the effectiveness of the device massively. The Sapphire Ice-Cooling System is also a great bonus and can reduce any stinging or other pain associated with the laser. The head can also rotate, allowing for multiple angles for those hard to reach places.
Pros
- Adjustable head is great for getting to hard to reach places
- The multiple settings allow for a true salon-feel finish
- The Sapphire Ice-Cooling System helps massively to reduce irritation
Cons
- Not suited for very dark skin
| Device type: | IPL |
| Accessories: | None |
| Cord: | Cordless |
<strong>Laser hair removal FAQs</strong>
What is laser hair removal?
In a few words, laser hair removal uses light energy to damage individual hair follicles by targeting melanin, thereby preventing regrowth.
It's important to complete laser treatments over multiple sessions and over differing hair cycle growths, to ensure that all hairs are targeted.
What is the difference between IPL and Laser Hair Removal?
When shopping around for a laser hair removal device, you'll see both laser and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices available, therefore it's important to know the difference between the two.
Dr Ross Perry, Medical Director of Cosmedics skin clinics explains: "The key difference between laser and IPL is the type of light they produce. IPL is a broadband pulsed light source to heat hair follicles and prevent regrowth, whereas laser is a monochromatic coherent light source."
So, what does that mean in terms of effectiveness between the two treatments? Dr Perry says "IPL is not actually classed as a laser as it’s much weaker because it uses a broad spectrum of light with different wave lengths, so it’s less focussed than Laser treatments. Typically, IPL technology will require more treatments and may produce less effective hair reduction."
"IPL is also hugely popular with men as it can be used on a variety of areas of the face or body and is suitable for all skin/hair types."
Are at-home laser hair removal devices safe?
According to Dr Perry, at-home hair removal devices can be regarded as safe, due to lower levels of energy - but this will also impact the outcome. "At home devices emit less power so most are safe to use, but with less power you’re not going to end up permanently hair free, only reducing the amount of hair and thinning it."
What steps should I take to ensure safe at-home laser?
First and foremost, it's important to always wear protective eyewear when performing laser hair removal given that the laser can cause permanent damage to your eyes.
A patch test is another important step to take prior to lasering a larger area, so to avoid blistering, irritation, or any other side effects caused by the use of the laser.
If you are going into your first at-home laser session, we also recommend avoiding sensitive areas such as your face until you've got to grips with your machine.
How to use an at-home laser hair removal device?
1. Start by exfoliating the area that you are planning on lasering. This will help remove all the excess dirt and oil from your skin, and help you get the best results.
2. Shave the area thoroughly, preferably with a brand new razor.
3. Perform a patch test by starting with a small area and waiting for a few weeks to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
4. Off you go. Make sure to start with a low energy setting and work your way up. Remember, laser hair removal is a process, so don't expect immediate results.
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Marina Avraam is a Commercial Content Writer for WhatsTheBest, and also writes for Mother&Baby, Heat and Closer. She has a passion for psychology, reading and fashion writing.
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