Best IPL Hair Removal

At-home laser hair removal devices offer a practical, cost-effective, and efficient alternative to in-office treatments for those seeking a simpler method to inhibit hair growth. Numerous devices on the market cater to different problem areas, whether it be the face, armpits, or chest, and typically require only a few treatments to achieve lasting results. To streamline your search, I have compiled a list of the best at-home laser hair removal devices from various brands and price ranges, all promising professional-grade outcomes from the comfort of your home.

Key Considerations When Purchasing an At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device

Price

The cost of at-home laser hair removal devices varies significantly by brand and type, typically ranging from $150 to over $500. While at-home treatments can be more affordable than professional sessions, they still represent a significant investment.

Skin Type and Hair Color

These devices generally come with different settings and intensities. It’s crucial to select a device that offers various options and clear guidelines to determine the best setting for you.

“Dark-skinned or tan patients should only undergo laser treatment with a long wavelength (e.g., 1064 nm) to avoid competing with their background skin color,” advises Daniel P. Friedmann, MD, FAAD, dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Darker skin tones are at a higher risk of burns or blisters, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation.

Most at-home laser hair removal devices are best suited for lighter skin tones with darker hair. However, suitability can vary depending on the laser type and brand. According to Kiran Mian, DO, FAAD, medical and aesthetic dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York, laser hair removal is safest for skin types that burn easily and rarely tan compared to those that only tan.

Type of Laser

At-home laser hair removal devices typically use two types of lasers: Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and diode. IPL devices employ light to damage the hair follicle at the root, slowing hair growth. Diode lasers use a single wavelength to heat and damage the hair follicle lining.

The challenge with hair removal techniques is that they are frequently tedious, painful, or expensive, or a combination of all three. Shaving offers only temporary relief and can result in cuts and razor burn. Waxing and tweezing are best reserved for those with a high pain tolerance. Laser hair removal and electrolysis, while effective, can be costly and time-consuming, making them inaccessible for many people.

This is where IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices come into play. These handheld tools aim to provide laser-like results at home without the pain and at a reasonable cost. But how do they work, and are they truly effective? Our testing team has tried them out to help you decide if they’re right for you.

Summary of Recommendations

• Best Overall: Ulike Air 3
• Best Budget Pick: Nood The Flasher 2.0
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Ulike Air 3
• Best for Bathing Suit Areas: RoseSkinCo Lumi
• Best for Men: JOVS Venus Pro II
• Easiest to Use: SmoothSkin Pure FIT
• Best for Travel: JOVS Mini 1.1

Our Top Pick: Ulike Air 3

The Ulike Air 3 combines power, comfort, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for sensitive areas. Our testers found the Ulike Air 3 to be the best overall IPL device. While this newer model has only three power settings, its top-notch cooling (thanks to the sapphire crystal) allows effective use of the highest setting in sensitive areas. Excellent ergonomics, a lengthy cord, and a well-sized treatment window contribute to its top ranking. Additionally, Ulike’s two-year warranty offers peace of mind.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Innerbody Research, we test the products and services we review extensively. For this IPL device guide, we purchased and used the devices on various body parts to evaluate ease of use, efficacy, and overall performance. This process provided us with unique insights into the customer experience, including support and shipping times.

Our team also dedicated over 200 hours to reviewing scientific research on hair removal and IPL technology. This review was vetted for accuracy by our Medical Review Board.

How We Evaluated IPL Devices

To determine the best IPL devices for hair removal, we established several criteria:

1. Handling: We evaluated ergonomics and features designed to make using an IPL device faster and easier.
2. Safety: We assessed the likelihood of minor injuries, such as skin irritation or ocular discomfort.
3. Cost: We considered the affordability and overall value of the devices.
4. Convenience: We looked at treatment times, automatic modes, included accessories, and overall ease of use.

Detailed Reviews of Top IPL Devices

Ulike Air 3

Best Overall and Best for Sensitive Skin

Pros:

• Effective cooling with sapphire crystal
• Balanced and easy to maneuver
• Versatile treatment window size
• Comprehensive accessory kit
• Two-year warranty

Cons:

• Only three power levels
• Sometimes tricky to activate skin sensor

Specifications:

• Price: $259 (with discount)
• Power Levels: 3
• Flashes: 850,000
• Treatment Window Size: 3.3 cm²
• Cord Length: 8.5 ft

JOVS Venus Pro II and Mini 1.1

Best for Men and Best for Travel

Pros:

• Rotating head for hard-to-reach areas
• Multiple power levels
• Well-made goggles included
• Cordless models for travel

Cons:

• Top-heavy design
• Shorter lamp lifespan
• Strong packaging smell

Specifications:

• Price: $299 (Venus Pro II), $199 (Mini Wireless)
• Power Levels: 6
• Flashes: 500,000
• Treatment Window Size: 3.5 cm²

Nood The Flasher 2.0

Best Budget Pick

Pros:

• Large LED display
• Easy to handle
• Seven power levels
• Affordable bundles

Cons:

• Small treatment window
• No sapphire cooling crystal

Specifications:

• Price: $169
• Power Levels: 7
• Flashes: 600,000
• Treatment Window Size: 3 cm²
• Cord Length: 8 ft

RoseSkinCo Lumi

Best for Bathing Suit Areas

Pros:

• Narrow treatment window for precision
• Long power cord
• Available in two colors

Cons:

• Lower maximum energy output
• No sapphire cooling crystal

Specifications:

• Price: $169
• Power Levels: 6
• Flashes: 900,000
• Treatment Window Size: 3.3 cm²
• Cord Length: 9 ft

SmoothSkin Pure FIT

Best for Sensitive Skin

Pros:

• Automatic power adjustment
• Real-time skin tone sensing
• Contoured shape

Cons:

• Shortest power cord
• No sapphire cooling crystal

Specifications:

• Price: $400
• Power Levels: 10
• Flashes: 400,000
• Treatment Window Size: 3 cm²
• Cord Length: 6 ft

Our Top Picks for Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices