The Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for Professional Looking Results

At-home laser hair removal devices are suitable alternatives to in-office treatments for people looking for an easier, more cost-effective, and efficient way to prevent hair growth. That said, there are a number of devices on the market that target a variety of problem areas whether that’s the face, armpits, or chest and only require a few treatments to sustain long-lasting results. To help ease the process, I’ve rounded up the best at-home laser hair removal devices across a variety of brands and price points that’ll provide professional-grade results from the comfort of your own home.

Our top picks for best at-home laser hair removal device

At-home laser hair removal devices can be expensive, however, there are some more budget-friendly options like this handset from HappySkinCo. At less than $150, this device can provide up to 20-years of effortless hair removal with its IPL laser and auto, manual, and glide modes. Use it all over the body (but not near the eyes) to achieve a smooth, hairless finish in three to four weeks.

How we selected the best home laser hair removal device

There are a plethora of at-home laser hair removal devices designed to be used on the face, the entire body, or both. I considered the following when looking for the best picks.

Settings

I chose devices with different levels of intensity that could be used on a variety of skin tones and skin types. I took into account how not everyone can tolerate the same settings, so having choices took precedence.

Price

Laser hair removal devices can be expensive, however, I tried to find a number of options priced at different points of the spectrum.

Customer reviews

I looked at customer reviews to get a sense for what people had to say about each of the devices from how well it worked, whether it was painful, and how long it took to notice visible results with consistent use.

What to consider when buying an at-home laser hair removal device

Price

The price of at-home laser hair removal devices can vary greatly depending on the brand and type. The standard price range is between $150 to $500+ with some options being higher or lower under special circumstances. For many people, at-home laser hair removal is a more affordable alternative to in-office treatments, however, they can still be an investment.

Skin type and hair color

Laser hair removal devices are generally equipped with different settings and intensities. Be sure the device you choose has a number of options to choose from and guidelines on how to know which is best for you.

“Dark-skinned or tan patients, however, should only have laser treatment with a long wavelength (e.g., 1064 nm), since this will not compete with their background skin color,” says Daniel P. Friedmann, MD, FAAD, dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Those with darker skin tones are at more risk of burns or even blisters, which can lead to hyperpigmentation.

In general, a majority of at-home laser hair removal devices are best-suited for lighter skin tones with darker hair, however, this varies based on the type of laser and brand. According to Kiran Mian, DO, FAAD, medical and aesthetic dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York, New York, laser hair removal is safest for those skin types that burn easily and rarely tan compared to those that only tan.

Type of laser

A majority of at-home laser hair removal devices use two different types of lasers: Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and diode. IPL devices use light to damage the follicle at the root to slow hair growth. Diode lasers use a single wavelength to heat and scorch the lining of the hair.

Benefits of at-home laser hair removal

At-home laser hair removal is a great option for those looking for an alternative from more traditional hair removal methods such as shaving and waxing. “At-home laser hair removal can be preferred by some people because it can be done in the comfort of their own home, however at-home laser hair removal does not deliver the best and most long-term results as in-office treatments do,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York, New York. Since at-home lasers have less intensity, it takes longer to see results. However, depending on the laser you choose, an extended length of consistent sessions can create great results.

How at-home laser hair removal devices work

“Typically, these treatments are performed two to three times a week in each targeted area and work by sending hairs into a resting phase, suppressing hair growth,” says Dr. Friedmann.

Most at-home devices use diode lasers or IPL to destroy hair follicles. “With IPL, the light damages the follicle at the root,” says Dr. Engelman, “while with diode lasers, there is a single wavelength that is used to heat and scorch the lining of the hair.” While both types of lasers are effective for at-home treatments, diode lasers more closely mimic in-office treatments, and can be used on a wider range of skin tones.

How to use at-home laser hair removal devices safely

At-home laser hair removal devices are generally safe, however, it’s important to do research, use caution, and read the directions specific to your device to avoid skin irritation and damage since some of these devices are not regulated or FDA-cleared. “I advise doing a patch test on a small part of your skin and waiting a few minutes to ensure your skin will not react negatively,” says Dr. Engelman. “Other tips for a safe and effective at-home treatment include beginning with clean skin, avoiding shaving before treatments, taking your time and avoiding areas such as the eyes, moles, tattoos, and any types of skin lesions.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the most effective at-home laser hair removal device?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question because a device that’s effective for one person may not be right for another. That said, IPL laser treatments are generally effective with consistent use in the right areas. It might take a few weeks and sometimes even months to notice visible changes, however, patience is key with at-home removal.

Dr. Friedmann says in-office devices will always be superior since they can achieve true hair root destruction and permanent hair reduction, however, at-home devices can still be a good alternative for those patients refusing in-office treatment, or better yet, complementary treatment to in-office procedures.

What is the most reliable at-home laser hair removal machine?

Similar to the question above, there isn’t a single machine that is most reliable. The results you get from at-home laser hair removal devices depend on how consistent you are with the treatments. Generally, the most reliable devices have different intensities and levels to choose from so you can find settings that work for your skin and hair type.

Are at-home laser hair removal machines worth it?

Overall, laser hair removal machines are worth it if you have realistic expectations. “At-home laser hair removal machines can be useful in a pinch and cost effective, but ultimately will not be able to deliver the same long term results as an in office laser,” says Dr. Engelman. That said, more devices are now available that even mimic in-office technology. With the right research and investment, at-home hair removal devices can produce promising results, it just may take a bit more time.

What is better: IPL or laser hair removal?

One is not better than the other, but they have their pros and cons. First off, IPL and laser hair removal both use light to heat hair follicles and prevent regrowth, however IPL requires more treatments and can often be less effective. Additionally, IPL targets the pigment in hair, so it isn’t a great option for people with darker skin or people with blonde, gray, or red hair. “The best candidates for IPL are people with relatively light skin and dark hair. And laser hair removal is typically a better option for most people and delivers longer lasting results,” says Dr. Engelman.

Are at-home laser hair removal devices safe?

According to Dr. Engelman, at-home laser hair removal is generally safe, but it’s crucial to use caution and follow directions exactly as instructed. “It’s important to note that those with darker skin have a higher risk of burning and irritation, and are better off going for in-office treatments so those extra layers of caution can be taken by a professional,” she adds.