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These high-tech tools will leave your skin feeling silky smooth Laser Alma Soprano
For those looking for convenient ways to get rid of body hair at home, there are a number of options to choose from—including using one of the best at-home laser hair removal devices.
According to board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD, Rebecca Marcus, 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 really fast. "Because using lasers offers a more targeted treatment, they reduce the potential of irritation or bumps that may be associated with shaving or waxing," board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick tells Bazaar. "Additionally, laser hair removal provides a more long-term solution than shaving or waxing."
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 director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, Joshua Zeichner. "I feel that the treatment should be called laser hair reduction rather than laser hair removal, because full removal of all of the hair may not be possible. As the hair becomes thinner and finer, it's more difficult to completely remove it," he explains.
Whether you're looking to maintain the look of a professional treatment, or 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 removal devices and IPL tools dermatologists recommend to their clients, along with some top-rated picks beauty enthusiasts across the internet swear by.
Related: The Best IPL Hair Removal Devices, According to Experts
While not quite a laser, this dermatologist-recommended device uses sensored IPL technology to adjust its treatment according to 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.
"The Braun IPL Long-lasting Hair Removal System is one of the best hair removal systems, I've used. I love that it comes with a bag for travel. I can pack it up and take it with me and not miss any treatments. It also comes with 4 caps and a razor to get you started.I've been using machine for about a month and I can tell that it's really working on my hair. This machine has been comfortable for me to use. It may seem daunting, at first but it's really easy, once you read the instructions and get used to it. I'll definitely keep doing the treatments, to see more results but so far, it's working for me. " —Rachel
Here's a laser removal tool that uses a diode laser—the same kind as the professionals—to get rid of body hair overtime by targeting pigment in the follicle. Plus, the tool's pointed tip makes it simple to target specific areas with expert precision.
"I have relatively dark hair and light skin, and I saw results after the first session. I was ready for the long haul and wasn’t expecting anything for weeks, or even months. A week after my first session, I was surprised when I noticed some familiar hairs had already stopped growing, most notably on my toes of all places. Probably 2/3 of the hair had grown back. A few dark hairs on top of my feet never came back at all." —Delaine
This FDA-cleared IPL device works for your underarms, legs, face, and bikini line (and even for a Brazilian), and aims for its users to see results in up to three weeks of use. It uses 10 minute treatment windows to get rid of hair overtime, with a built-in UV-filtered lens to keep your skin protected.
"I've been using the Flasher 2.0 for eight weeks now, and the hair on my legs is almost completely gone! I'm also using it on my bikini area and under arms, those are showing progress as well! Cheers to being hair free!" —Samantha S.
This popular device is best for those with fair to olive skin tones with darker hair, and uses three stages to slow body hair growth over the course of a few weeks.
"My husband bought this for me as a gift and it has been so awesome! I have a lot of dark hair in places I would prefer not to and this has been such a game changer for me. For the first time in my life I feel confident to show my arms. It has really helped my self-esteem. It is easy to use and I have seen results very quickly. The process is slow, but absolutely worth it!" —Ryan I.
Here's a beloved laser hair removal device that works to cool the top most layer of your skin to 50 degrees Fahrenheit to minimize the risk of potential burns, and contains five power levels for a customizable experience.
"It has a luxurious appearance, and the shape is easy to grip so you can remove hair. [Mine] is getting thinner and thinner, so I'm satisfied." —Rina
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.
"Have tried two treatments thus far and already notice a decrease in growth time on my legs. Hair is not gone yet, but shaving less often as grow back is slow. Can't wait to see results after a few more uses. Very easy to use and pain free." —qball
After testing SmoothSkin's Pure Fit device for a number of weeks, associate beauty editor Katie Intner became an instant fan. "The SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL device comes with a smaller tip for precision areas like above the lip, I started with the bigger tip for my legs," she previously explained. "It's very user-friendly: It will never zap light or heat without perfect skin contact (dots on the side light up white when there’s good contact and red when there is poor contact). I loved this feature, because no matter which direction I was going in, it took the guesswork out of trying to get the laser in the right spot to work."
Made to remove hair from both your body and face, this expert-level beauty tool uses up to five power levels to get the job done, no "on" button required. But if you prefer the use of a button, the device also includes a glide feature that makes it easy to customize your experience.
"I have been using this product for a couple of months and I love it. It is small, does the job, and I have seen a difference in my hair growth. The only disadvantage of this product is that the time between the zaps is slow—I could save so much time if the zaps were a lot faster. Otherwise, great product for the price." —Mina
This fast-acting, FDA-cleared version of the Flash&Go uses a quartz bulb and Home Pulsed Light (HPL) technology to lessen hair density with the press of a button, and works in just 20 minutes to deliver smoother skin.
"I've been treating my skin for three months now, and I'm very happy with my progress. My skin tolerates the flash perfectly, and I was able to use the highest setting quickly. I've noticed a very good reduction in hair growth and I'm excited to continue on to [see] even more of a reduction. It's simple to use and I love the storage case. I enjoy using it and do not find it to be a hassle in an anyway." —Coconut
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 minimizing 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.
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."
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 color 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 discoloration in the skin. "In general, at-home laser hair removal devices are not optimal for those with sensitive skin or skin of color 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."
Don't forget to take care of your skin with a soothing moisturizer following each treatment to hydrate and repair the skin barrier. According to Rossi, look for moisturizers 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, moisturizing creams and sun protection are both important after using laser treatment," she explains. "A gentle moisturizer 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."
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.
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