You clicked on this article knowing what it’s about: hair removal. That said, let’s establish up front that body hair is totally natural, beautiful, and healthy.
If you do prefer hair-free armpits, legs, or arms, you’re probably very familiar with the pain and time-consuming upkeep of shaving, waxing, or threading. That’s precisely why the latest hair-removal method on the market has gained a serious cult following for its longer-lasting results: laser hair removal.
Are laser hair removal devices worth it?
Going to a spa or dermatologist to get laser hair removal treatments can be seriously pricey, which is why people are opting for at-home lasers, many of which can even be under $100. But, how exactly do they work? Most at-home laser hair removal devices use IPL (intense pulsed light). Dermatologist Dr. Bertha Baum, DO, explained to me that IPL works by directing light at the pigment in the hair follicle. The light from IPL destroys the follicle’s root, stopping its regrowth.
Are at-home laser hair removal devices effective?
“At-home laser hair removal devices are not optimal for people with sensitive skin or skin of color. Many at-home devices cannot distinguish between darker skin and dark hair,” notes dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, MD.
And, just as is the case with salon laser hair removal, it’s important to practice patience—this isn’t a “one and done” situation. Once you choose your device, know that it can take some time to see results. Though you’ll of course want to refer to the specific instructions on your device, Baum recommends using the laser weekly for anywhere from four to 10 weeks.
She advises that if you have particularly sensitive skin, you may want to use the device just once a month. Either way, she notes that you should start seeing results in the form of thinning hair after just your first four treatments.
Which laser hair removal device is the most effective?
All of the IPL devices on the list use the same technology that professional and medical-grade devices use. However, dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, clarifies that there is a major difference. “At-home lasers use lower energies to make them safe for consumers to use,” he says. Dr. Zeichner also makes it very clear that like any other beauty product, laser hair removal isn’t for everyone—success is dependent upon many factors, like how thick or coarse your hair is.
See below for the 17 best hair removal devices in 2022 for every skin type and body part, according to customer reviews.
1. Best Overall Laser Hair Remover
IPL Hair Removal
Braun
$330 AT AMAZON $438 AT WALMART
The Braun laser hair removal device uses IPL with the goal of permanent hair reduction. After just four weeks of use, it’ll supposedly remove all unwanted hair. Not only is it FDA-cleared for safety, it’s also the number one best-selling laser hair removal device on Amazon.
Rave Review: “I suffer from PCOS and excessive hair due to hormonal imbalances, including facial hair. I got this because I was tired of waxing, plucking, and shaving every day. A month in, I have already seen a significant reduction in the hair on my chin and neck. This has been 1000 percent worth it.”
2. Best Affordable Laser Hair Remover
Permanent Hair Removal Machine
IMENE
Now 16% off
IMENE’s device is smaller compared to others, which makes it perfect for more targeted hair removal for the face, armpits, and the delicate contours of the bikini area. At under $90, it’s a total bargain—it even comes with sunglasses to protect your eyes from the laser light.
Rave Review: “I was afraid this was going to hurt, but it actually hurts so much less than waxing. I’ve been using it on my armpits and bikini area and will never go back to waxing ever again!”
3. Best Laser Hair Remover Gift
OG IPL Hair Removal Handset
RoseSkinCo.
Reviewers rave that RoseSkinCo’s IPL device is perfect for achieving hair-free pits and legs. For $130, it’s one of the more affordable options on this list. That combined with the gorgeous look of the device makes this an awesome gift for the person in your life who keeps talking about how badly they want to get laser treatments.
Rave Review: “I bought this product out of desperation and did NOT think it would work. I was WRONG! After three weeks, I have several large patches of skin on my legs with no regrowth! It’s amazing!”
4. Best Cooling Laser Hair Remover
Painless Ice-Cooling IPL Laser Hair Removal
bMNpMN
Specifically made for those with lower pain tolerances, this hair removal device cools the skin as you glide it across your skin to decrease, or even eliminate, pain as you laser away hair. And even if you have a high pain tolerance, the cooling is super soothing.
Rave Review: “I have very sensitive skin, but this little tool is surprisingly comforting and easy to use. No redness on my arms and it removes hair well. Definitely recommend it!”
5. Best Painless Laser Hair Remover
Painless Permanent Hair Removal Device
BoSidin
BoSidin’s device has an amazing precision head that can rotate 180 degrees in both directions, which makes it super easy to get into every unique contour of your body. But, the best part? Reviewers rave about it being way less painful than most hair removers on the market.
Rave Review: “This is super easy to use, and it doesn’t hurt at all! I have used it three times and I can already tell my hair is growing slower.”
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Source: womenshealthmag