Laser hair removal at home is possible with small electronic devices. While less powerful than those available at a clinic, they can still be effective. We review the five best at-home lasers available online.
Here, we compare the products in this article based on their target areas and suitability.
| Target areas | Hair colors | Skin tones | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SmoothSkin | any | light to dark | light to light brown | $349 |
| MiSMON | most, apart from the face | brown to black | light to light brown | $189.99 |
| Braun Pro 5 | any | light brown to black | light to dark brown | $349.99 |
| Tria Beauty | small | light brown to black | fair to light brown | $349 |
| Braun Pro 3 | any | light brown to black | light to medium brown | $285 |
When choosing a suitable laser hair removal device, it is important to consider the following:
- Skin and hair tone: Most at-home laser removal devices only work on darker hair and lighter skin tones.
- Target areas: Never use a device on the face or other sensitive areas unless it is capable of doing so.
- Number of pulses: Generally, the larger the number of pulses, the larger the target area. For example, using the device on the entire leg can take around 1,200 pulses.
- Type of lasers: Laser hair removal devices typically use diode laser or IPLE technology. IPL is usually less expensive but less powerful.
Home laser hair removal can work. However, the results a person experiences may depend on a range of individual factors, such as hair color and skin tone.
Additionally, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service says that laser hair removal does not work as well on tanned skin or sun-bleached hair.
However, the development of in-clinic lasers holds promise for darker skin tones. For instance, a
At-home devices may not produce the same effects as in-clinic machines. For example, a
Below are answers to common questions about at-home laser hair removal devices.
People can use at-home laser hair removal on the bikini line, but it is not advisable for the genital area.
The genitals are more sensitive than the rest of the skin, making using a hair removal laser more painful. Additionally, there is usually greater hair density, which would absorb more light energy and may cause discomfort.
If people use at-home laser hair removal devices correctly, there are usually minimal side effects.
However, some people may experience blistering, scarring, scabbing, or other changes in the skin, such as discoloration, slight swelling, or soreness, which should only last a day or two.
People with lighter skin tones may experience redness, while individuals with darker skin tones may notice their skin turning gray, purple, or brown.
Laser hair removal uses high heat to destroy individual hairs and stop hair follicles from working. This means that the hair appears finer over time, and it will take longer for hair follicles to produce new hair. This can result in a gradual reduction of hair over weeks and months.
Using a laser hair removal device is cheaper and more convenient than undergoing treatment in a clinic. However, it carries more risk, and the results will likely be slower. Also, most at-home laser hair removal devices do not work on lighter hair or darker skin tones.
A person can choose a device based on the area of the body they wish to target. Since most people will need multiple treatments, they can also consider how long the device will likely last.
Laser hair removal is not permanent, but these devices can significantly reduce body hair with correct use. A person should follow all instructions carefully and be patient, as good results take time.
