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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 six best at-home lasers available online.
Here, we compare the products in this article based on their target areas and suitability.
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.
Research from 2020 suggests that laser and light-based technology for hair removal works best on people with fair skin and dark hair, leading to a significant reduction in hair growth.
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 2023 study found that the effectiveness of a triple wavelength diode laser device was similar for both lighter and darker skin types on the Fitzpatrick I-VI scale.
At-home devices may not produce the same effects as in-clinic machines. For example, a 2023 study found that at-home devices reduce hair on the armpit by up to52%, whereas those who used professional services saw reductions of up to 88%.
Below are answers to common questions about at-home laser hair removal devices.
Can you use at-home laser hair removal on pubic hair?
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.
What are the downsides of at-home laser hair removal?
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.
Do I need to shave before using at-home laser hair removal?
Yes, a person needs to shave the area they want to treat before they use an at-home laser hair removal device.
Experts recommend shaving far enough in advance of the treatment to allow a slight stubble to grow. This gives the laser just enough of a target without absorbing too much of its energy in the hair shaft.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends shaving within 24 hours of laser hair removal treatment to help the laser easily locate the hair follicles. The ASPS also warns that the laser can burn hair that is too long and cause discomfort.
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.
