For those looking for convenient ways to get rid of body hair at home, there are a number of options to choose from — including laser hair-removal devices.
According to Rebecca Marcus, the board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD, most hair-removal lasers function by emitting a single wavelength of light that's absorbed by a specific target (in this case, the pigment of the hair you want removed). The laser's energy is ultimately absorbed and damages the hair follicle, which, after multiple treatments, puts an end to its growth.
While shaving your underarms and legs in the shower is quicker and easier, there's the lingering threat of razor bumps — and the hair tends to grow back quickly. "Because using lasers offers a more targeted treatment, they reduce the potential of irritation or bumps that may be associated with shaving or waxing," the board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick tells Bazaar. "Additionally, laser hair removal provides a more long-term solution than shaving or waxing."
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Although at-home laser devices can provide highly effective results, experts advise that users shouldn't expect this removal method to get rid of all their body hair overnight. "Complete hair removal is a challenge," says Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. "I feel that the treatment should be called laser hair reduction rather than laser hair removal, because full removal of all the hair may not be possible. As the hair becomes thinner and finer, it's more difficult to completely remove it."
Some at-home devices may be designed specifically for the body or face based on the size of its hand piece, or ease of use in different locations. Garshick notes that using tools on the face should be in an extra-precise manner, with special attention being paid to avoid certain areas like around the eyebrows and general eye area. "If there is excessive pain or discomfort a few hours past treatment, and darkening of the skin, call your provider for assistance," Christian Karavolas, laser hair-removal expert and founder of Romeo and Juliette Laser Hair Removal in New York City, advises. "After treatment, skin may be slightly irritated but this typically goes away in a short period of time."
Whether you're looking to maintain the look of a professional treatment, or are just curious about new options for hair removal at home, these expert-tested, recommended, and FDA-cleared devices are among the safest and most effective tools that get the job done. Here, we've rounded up some of the best at-home laser hair-removal devices and IPL tools that dermatologists recommend to their clients, along with some top-rated picks that beauty enthusiasts swear by.
Braun Silk ExpertIPL Hair Removal System
This dermatologist-recommended device uses IPL technology and incorporates a sensor that adapts the treatment based on your skin tone. Its glide mode can be helpful to cover larger surface areas and also includes a precision head to help address smaller areas that may be difficult to reach, like the face, bikini line, and underarms.
For beginners looking for a simple option to manage body hair, experts suggest Silk'n's Infinity Hair Removal Device. "This handheld tool is easy to hold and use, and uses HPL technology to eliminate hairs. Through high-speed repetition of pulses, it offers fast and effective treatment sessions at home," Garshick says.
Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 3
Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 3
Ideal for fair to olive skin tones, Braun's IPL Silk Expert Pro 3 device is slightly more budget-friendly than the 5 version, and works in up to three months to remove hair from both your arms and legs. For in-between touch-ups, this tool even includes a handy razor, plus precision head attachment for hard to reach areas.
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This device from Silk'n uses its signature HPL technology to minimise unwanted body hair by targeting pigment in the hair shaft to disable growth – without damaging the surrounding skin. Plus, it features a button-less design that starts working automatically once it senses skin contact.
Here's a beloved laser hair-removal device that works to cool the topmost layer of your skin to 50 degrees Fahrenheit to minimise the risk of potential burns, and contains five power levels for a customisable experience.
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How does the laser hair removal process work?
While different hair removal technologies can be found in at-home laser devices, most treatments use IPL (intense pulsed light) to emit multiple wavelengths of light, that turn into heat, to destroy hair follicles. "The light energy is converted to heat, which permanently damages and destroys hair follicles," explains cosmetic and general dermatologist, and founder of The Derm Institute in Los Angeles, Annie Chiu.
According to Garshick, aside from light-based IPL devices, other hair removal options use laser technology (known as diode lasers), which use a single wavelength of light — unlike IPL that uses many wavelengths — to target the pigment of the hair follicle and selectively absorb it while minimising injury to the surrounding skin. "Since laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment of the hair follicle, dark hairs tend to respond the best to laser hair removal," Garshick says. While burns can happen, Chiu cautions that doubling up on a specific area to lessen hair density won't speed up results and may lead to increased skin trauma.
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Are at-home hair removal devices safe for all skin tones?
Both IPL and diode laser devices rely on the pigment of the hair follicle to lessen or completely remove it from your skin, but diode lasers are generally more precise, making them a safer option for most skin types and tones.
However, it's important to use caution when trying out any at-home laser hair-removal device. Those with lighter hair or darker skin should carefully consider their options regarding their tool of choice. Karavolas notes that the preferred type of wavelength to use on skin of colour in professional laser treatments is about NDYAG 1064 nm.
"I recommend that my clients first test spots in less conspicuous areas, like the arms or legs, to see if burning or hyperpigmentation occurs before proceeding to treat the face or more prominent areas of the body," Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, says.
Having more pigment in your skin may confuse the laser, Zeichner cautions, leading to discolouration in the skin. "In general, at-home laser hair removal devices are not optimal for those with sensitive skin or skin of colour as the potential risk of irritation, hyperpigmentation, or scarring is increased," Garshick adds. "For individuals with sensitive skin and darker skin types, it's especially important to ensure the selected device is appropriate and should always be discussed with a board-certified dermatologist prior to use."
What should you do to treat the skin post-hair removal?
Don't forget to take care of your skin with a soothing moisturiser following each treatment to hydrate and repair the skin barrier. According to Rossi, look for moisturisers without heavy fragrances, as they can contribute to skin inflammation. Garshick agrees, adding that wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is equally important in healing newly treated areas of the skin, since laser treatments can often contribute to increased sun sensitivity.
"Generally, moisturising creams and sun protection are both important after using laser treatment," she explains. "A gentle moisturiser or post-procedure product, such as Vaseline Intensive Care Soothing Hydration with Aloe, can be soothing on the skin. Other options include CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream, Avène Cicalfate+, or EltaMD Laser Enzyme Gel. If the skin feels sensitive at all, it is best to opt for a mineral sunscreen like Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield or Cetaphil's Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen."
Meet the Experts
- Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
- Joshua Zeichner, M.D., F.A.A.D is the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
- Annie Chiu, M.D., F.A.A.D is a cosmetic and general dermatologist, and founder of The Derm Institute in Los Angeles, California.
- Anthony Rossi M.D., F.A.A.D, F.A.C.M.S is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Memoral Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
- Rebecca Marcus is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD.
- Christian Karavolas is a laser hair removal expert, and founder of Romeo and Juliette Laser Hair Removal in New York City.
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