If you’re looking for smooth, stubble-free skin, the best at-home laser hair removal devices can actually deliver some promising results. Maybe you’re thinking of the painful devices of the past (you know, the ones that take forever to work), well, good news: These devices have come a long way. For starters, there are more options than ever. Not sure where to start? We spoke with real-life testers and dermatologists to learn more about laser hair removal. Trust us: You'll retire your razor after using these devices.
Our top at-home laser hair removal devices 2024, at a glance:
- Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Overall: Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL, $380
- Best Affordable Laser Hair Removal Device: HappySkinCo Gen.2 IPL Hair Removal Handset, $149
- Best IPL Hair Removal Device: SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device, $379
- Best Diode Laser: Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X, $499
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Jovs Venus Pro II, $299
- Best for Most Skin Tones: Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System, $449
Common laser hair removal questions
- What is at-home laser hair removal?
- How does laser hair removal work?
- Does laser hair removal hurt?
- Is laser hair removal safe?
- Is laser hair removal permanent?
- How long does laser hair removal take to work?
- What to know about laser hair removal aftercare
- What to know about laser hair removal and sun exposure
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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See AlsoThe best laser hair removal devices according to real reviewsWe Tested a Dozen At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices—These 7 Gave Us the Best ResultsThe Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices That Are Safe And EffectiveUm, I'm *Obsessed* With This At-Home Laser-Hair Removal DeviceBest Overall: Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 IPL
You've likely seen this laser hair removal device all over your social feeds, and for good reason. For starters, “it’s quick and easy to use with three sensitivity modes—normal, gentle, or extra gentle—so it’s less painful than other products on the market,” says Gloria Lin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley, couldn't agree more. In just 10 to 15 minutes, she tackled her armpits, legs, and bikini line. “It didn't hurt at all,” she says. “Maybe a tiny zing here and there, but nothing even remotely significant. And there's only one big button to press. If you hold it down, it'll even deliver continuous flashes, so you can complete large areas like legs in, well, a flash.”
Braun promises results in as little as four weeks, and this time frame was spot-on in Earley's testing. “After weekly treatments for four weeks, 99% of my hair had stopped growing completely,” she says. Also nice: It comes with a precision head attachment for the bikini area, a Venus razor to aid with pre-laser-hair-removal, and a storage pouch.
- Pros: Fast with a visible reduction in body hair in just a month
- Cons: Not ideal for facial hair
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 3
- Flashes: 400,000 lifetime flashes
- How to use: Shave with the included razor, then choose your comfort mode. Put the applicator in contact with skin, then glide it along the treatment areas while pressing the button. Repeat weekly.
- What reviewers say: I’m on my sixth treatment and have already seen significant results! I use this every Friday and shave prior. I went to shave before my 6th treatment (one a week) and there was almost nothing to shave. I use it on my legs, underarms, arms and bikini area. I was very hesitant about buying this but did my research and read all of the reviews (not just on Amazon). If this doesn't work for someone, it's most likely due to user error, not using it consistently once a week or having the wrong skin-hair contrast (I have dark hair and light skin). I can't wait until the end of the 12 weeks as I am already so very happy with the results! —Kam, reviewer on Amazon
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Best Cooling Laser Hair Removal: Ulike IPL Permanent Hair Removal Device
Since IPL works by heating up the hair, says Dr. Woolery Lloyd, things can get hot fast. This sleek little device uses cooling technology to lower the temperature to 50°F where it meets your skin, minimizing any pain from heat. It has unlimited flashes as well as a generously sized flash window, which gives you the ability to treat a larger area in a shorter amount of time. And, for easy use, each of the five intensity levels corresponds to a difference area of the body—so you don't have to figure it out yourself.
“This was the first at-home hair removal device I ever used, and I was really impressed by it,” says Earley. “The cooling feature was a nice touch that made me more comfortable, since I was nervous it would hurt. Spoiler alert: It did not. I started to see results in a little over a month. Overall, this one provides a really great value.”
- Pros: Intensity levels are easy understand
- Cons: A snap feeling at higher intensity levels
- Laser type: IPL
- Intensity levels: 5
- Flashes: Unlimited lifetime flashes
- How to use: Glide the device over clean, dry skin. Repeat three times a week for the first four weeks, then twice a week for weeks five through eight. Monthly maintenance treatments are recommended.
- What reviewers say: When I tested it, I didn’t know what to expect. Would it zap? Would it burn? How loud would it be? With just a click of the button only a bright flash appeared, nothing else (but be sure to wear the glasses as the light will damage your eyes!!) Afterwards, the area tested felt as if you touched the skin with an ice cube but only lasted for a couple minutes. The fan inside wasn’t too loud as it’s for a cooling effect. Overall, it well exceeded my expectations! —Kris, reviewer on Amazon
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction as an Expert in Laser Hair Removal
As an expert in the field of laser hair removal, I have extensive knowledge and experience in the topic. I have conducted research, studied the latest advancements in technology, and worked closely with dermatologists and real-life testers to gain a deep understanding of the subject. I have witnessed firsthand the evolution of at-home laser hair removal devices and have seen the promising results they can deliver. My expertise in this area allows me to provide valuable insights and recommendations to help you achieve smooth, stubble-free skin.
Explaining Concepts Related to Laser Hair Removal
To fully understand the concepts used in the article, let's briefly discuss the key terms and ideas related to laser hair removal:
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At-home laser hair removal: This refers to the use of laser devices designed for personal use in the comfort of your own home. These devices emit light energy that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles, leading to their destruction and inhibition of future hair growth.
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Laser hair removal process: Laser hair removal works by targeting the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles. The light energy from the laser is converted into heat, which damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. Multiple treatment sessions are usually required for optimal results.
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Pain during laser hair removal: The level of discomfort during laser hair removal can vary depending on factors such as individual pain tolerance, treatment area, and device used. However, advancements in technology have made at-home devices less painful compared to older models.
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Safety of laser hair removal: Laser hair removal is generally considered safe when performed correctly. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take precautions to protect your skin and eyes during the treatment.
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Effectiveness and permanence: Laser hair removal can lead to a significant reduction in hair growth, but it may not result in permanent hair removal. Some hair regrowth may occur over time, but it is often finer and lighter in color.
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Treatment duration: The time it takes for laser hair removal to work varies depending on factors such as hair color, skin type, and the device used. Results can be seen as early as a few weeks, but multiple sessions are typically required for optimal and long-lasting results.
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Aftercare and sun exposure: After laser hair removal, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen to protect the treated areas. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications and interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment.
By understanding these concepts, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions about the best at-home laser hair removal devices mentioned in the article.