These Are the Best IPL Hair Removal Devices for Smooth Summer Skin
Hair removal is a personal thing. Some of us like to do it, and some of us don’t. Some of us like to use a razor, while others prefer waxing. As a beauty editor, something that I’m very intrigued about is at-home laser hair removal or, more accurately, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices.
I’ve long been a fan of in-salon laser hair removal, but there’s no denying how costly it can be. Plus, it can be a pain having to go back to the salon every six weeks. So, lately I’ve found myself researching at-home devices to see if they can deliver similar results. In order to help me with my research, I reached out to an expert to find out more about these beauty tools, and even asked some of the Who What Wear UK team to put at-home laser hair removal devices to the test. We’ve tested everything from facial microcurrent devices to LED face masks, so we know what makes a good beauty tool. Keep on scrolling to find out more…
What Is Laser Hair Removal And How Does It Work?
First things first, what actually is laser hair removal and how it work? “Laser hair removal is a cosmetic hair reduction procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (lasers) to target and destroy hair follicles, slowing down and in some cases inhibiting future hair growth,” explains NHS GP doctor and medical educator, Dr. Raj Arora. “The procedure works by emitting a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, causing damage to the follicle while minimising harm to the surrounding skin.”
How Does An At-Home Device Differ From An In-Salon Treatment?
As someone who has only tried in-salon laser hair removal before, I was curious to know how an at-home device can differ from this. “At-home laser hair removal devices typically use lower-powered lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) technology compared to professional treatments performed in salons,” Dr Arora tells me. Because they aren’t as powerful, as explained to me by Dr Arora, these devices often work best when used in between salon laser hair reduction sessions. However, that’s not to say that you won’t see results from just using an at-home device, too.
Do Laser Hair Removal Devices Work on All Skin Tones and Hair Colours?
Another thing that I was curious about was whether these devices can be used on all skin tones and all hair colours. Unfortunately, they might not work for everyone. “At-home devices are not universally effective on all skin tones,” says Dr Arora. “Many are designed to work best on individuals with light skin and dark hair, as the contrast aids in the device’s ability to target the hair pigment. People with darker skin tones may not achieve the same effectiveness, and certain devices may not be safe for them. So always check before purchasing.”
As mentioned above, these devices also only really work best on darker hair. “Lighter hair colours, such as blonde, grey, or red, contain less pigment, making it difficult for the laser to target and effectively treat those hair colours,” Dr Arora explains.
Of course, always make sure to read the instructions before trying a device out, and if you have certain skin conditions, then Dr Arora always recommends consulting your doctor or dermatologist before trying one of these devices. It’s also important to look after your skin before and after using these tools, so make sure to follow the brand’s advice.
How Long Can It Take To See Results?
It’s no secret that you have to have quite a lot of in-salon treatments in order to see long-lasting results from laser hair removal, but how long can it take with an at-home device?
“Results can vary depending on the device, hair thickness, and skin type, but generally, users may begin to notice a reduction in hair growth after several treatments,” says Dr Arora. “Typically, it may take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to see noticeable results, requiring regular sessions to achieve optimal outcomes.”
We’ve been busy putting some of the most popular hair removal devices to the test over the past few months in order to see how they work and whether they are worth the investment. Keep on scrolling to read our honest reviews…
The Best At Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
1. Philips Lumea 9900 Series IPL Hair Removal Device
Best Advanced Technology
Philips
Lumea 9900 IPL Skin AI Hair Removal Device
Intensity settings: 5
Attachments: 4
First up is this clever IPL device from Philips. It’s more of an investment, but it’s the smartest device out of the entire Lumea range, and even comes with an app that has SkinAI features to deliver a personalised treatment. With four attachments to fit different parts of the body and five adjustable settings, it’s easy to use and has a Smartkin sensor that detects your skin tone and indicates the best (and most comfortable) light setting for your skin.
Editor review: “As someone who’s been getting professional laser hair removal treatments for years, I’m no stranger to the world of at-home devices, but I’ve always been a bit cautious when it comes to using them on my face. I’ve had the Philips Lumea IPL for a few years now, and while I mainly use it in between appointments for my body, it’s become my go-to for facial hair removal.
“I have sensitive skin, so the thought of using professional-grade lasers on my face always made me hesitant. The Lumea, however, delivers a much lighter pulse that feels far gentler, which made me feel more comfortable using it on delicate areas. After being consistent with treatments every two weeks (always straight after my Sunday shower once I’ve shaved the area), the hair around my sideburns has completely disappeared. I’ve never experienced any irritation or burning, which was my biggest concern, and the device slots into my routine so seamlessly now that I barely think twice about using it. I can confidently say it’s been one of the best beauty investments I’ve made,” says junior branded content editor, Humaa Hussain.
Pros
- Comes with a range of attachment and settings
- Also comes with an app for a personalised treatment
2. Currentbody Skin Laser Hair Removal Device
CurrentBody Skin
Laser Hair Removal Device
Intensity settings: 6
Attachments: 1
Relatively new from Currentbody, this laser hair removal device is pretty impressive. It aims to provide permanent, full-body hair removal and comes with ice cooling technology to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. Similar to the above, it also comes with a sensor that checks the pigment in your skin to ensure your skin tone can safely tolerate the treatment. The only downside is that this tool comes with one attachment, so it’s probably better for treating larger areas of skin.
Editor review: “My first impressions of the Currentbody Laser Hair Removal Device were incredibly positive. The instructions were clear, the device wasn’t too bulky and I was immediately excited to get started. I tested this device out over the course of 12 weeks, sticking closely to the instructions, and I’ll say that if you’re looking for a hair reduction device, this certainly does the job.
The process itself is incredibly easy. Simply start up the device, choose the level you want (I went for max as I found this completely fine) and in a short while you’re done. The best part of this device is the cooling technology which kicks in automatically after a minute or so. Overall, I didn’t find this painful in any way, it was more of a warming sensation and the cooling sensation quickly dealt with that.
After the treatment plan, I had noticed a reduction in hair regrowth, though I didn’t see complete hair removal. As it’s so easy to use, I’ll continue to keep using this as it states you can use it monthly for touch-ups. It’s the kind of device you can use anywhere, as you can adjust the intensity for those more delicate areas like the face,” says shopping editor, Florrie Alexander.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Cooling technology to keep treatment as comfortable as possible
Cons
- Only comes with one attachment
- Works better at reducing hair, rather than removing all together
3. Foreo Peach 2
Best for an Easy Experience
Intensity settings: 5
Attachments: 1
Yes, this might be the cutest IPL device I have ever seen. Not only that, but it’s a dream to use. It comes with five intensity settings and two modes, one for larger areas and one for more precise areas on both the body and face. Plus, it has a built-in air cooling system to keep things comfortable. It’s made of high-quality silicone, so it’s easy to hold, and the self-adjusting head adapts to the contours of the body. If that hasn’t sold you, it also features T-Sonic™ technology to capture the root of the hair for the best results.
My review: I’ve always been put off by at-home laser hair removal devices as I thought that they would be a faff to use. However, this Foreo one couldn’t be simpler. It comes with a handy app that tells you exactly how to use it, and although I’ve only used the low intensity settings (I’m still working my way up), it feels very comfortable on the skin. I haven’t used it long enough yet to comment on whether it completely reduces hair growth, but it’s so simple to use that I will definitely be using it regularly, and I’m very excited to see what the long-term results will be.
Pros
- Really easy to use
- Built-in cooling system
- Comes with a handy app
Cons
- Only features one attachment
4. JOVS Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and Hair Removal Device
![Jovs Laser Hair Removal, [24j Energy] Ipl Hair Removal for Women and Men, 37°f Painless Sapphire Ice-Cooling Tech, 6 Modes for Whole Body Hair Removal Device, 2 in 1 Skin Rejuvenation, 330° Rotation](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CQsToA9uNazNuuwBib4mBV-1920-80.jpg.webp)
JOVS
Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and Hair Removal Device
Intensity settings: 6
Attachments: 6
If you want a do-it-all laser hair removal device, this might be a good one to try. With six attachments and six different intensities, it can be used for lots of different areas such as your arms, legs, bikini line and face. It also comes with a cooling system, making it more comfortable to use. However, the best bit is that it combines hair reduction with skin rejuvenating treatments. Yep, the skin rejuvenation attachment head uses continuous flashes of light to boost collagen and elastin production in order to smooth and firm the skin.
My review: First things first, can we talk about how stylish this looks? It’s easily one of the chicest devices I’ve seen. I’ve been working my way up the six different intensities and have found this comfortable (well, as comfortable as laser hair removal can be) to use, thanks to the built-in technology, which works to keep your skin cool. I will say that it does take a while to see results with this. I’ve noticed some hair reduction over the past eight weeks, but I am determined to keep going in the hopes that it will make a bigger difference soon.
Pros
- Sleek packaging
- Multiple settings and attachments
- Easy to use
- More affordable than other devices
Cons
- Takes a while to see results
5. Silk’n Infinity Fast Light-Based Hair Removal Device
Best for a Compact Tool
Silk’n
Infinity Fast Light-Based Hair Removal Device
Intensity settings: 5
Attachments: 1
This device from Silk’n is a lot more compact than other models in this roundup, which makes it a lot easier (and quicker) to use. Plus, it utilises eHPL technology, which helps the light to penetrate deeper for faster and long-lasting hair reduction.
Editor review: “Let me first make it clear that I am a shaving sort of person. For the most part, I’m not someone who is overly bothered by body hair, but I have a lot of thick, dark hair all over my body, and I simply find it more comfortable to be hair-free. I once had a few in-clinic laser sessions on my underarms, and while it really worked, I found the pain too much to bear. (I’m a total whimp when it comes to my pain tolerance.) So, I’ve accepted my fate: I’m destined to be a shaver for the rest of my life. Legs, underarms, bikini line and even my face—I shave the lot.
“In recent months, however, I’ve started getting ingrown hairs on my legs and have been in the market for an alternative hair removal method. The Silk’n Infinity Fast utilises trademarked eHPL technology, which works to temporarily enlarge pores and deliver the light technology right to the root of the hair shaft. After shaving, I use the Infinity Fast on my legs (while it can be used on all skin tones, the hair does need to be dark, so I figured my legs were the best place to put this device to the test). I’ve been using it once a fortnight for the last eight weeks (so four sessions), and I have already found that the hair is sparser and finer. I’m finding that I only need to shave once or twice between sessions, when previously I was shaving my legs every single day.
“Silk’n promises hair reduction by 92% after just six sessions (two weeks apart), and I can confirm I’m so nearly there. I love this tool for how compact it is and how fuss-free it is to use. It’s a little cheaper than lots of its competitors, and while I know that some promise results in fewer treatments, I’m over the moon with how well things are going,” says beauty director, Shannon Lawlor.
Pros
- Compact tool
- A little cheaper than competitors
Cons
- Only comes with one attachment
Shop More At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
Braun
IPL Silk-Expert Pro 5
This Braun IPL device currently has an amazing discount, and comes with different sized heads and three sensitive modes to work for lots of different areas of the body.
Yes, this device looks super cute, but the compact size is also totally travel friendly. Plus, it comes with a handy app to guide you through the entire routine.
Another option from the Philips Lumea range, this device comes with five adjustable light settings and a free app for a personalised experience.
Silk’n
7 Light-Based Hair Removal Device
With a 360 degree rotating head and three different sized attachments, this device is great for getting those hard-to-reach areas.
Sensica
Sensilight Yang IPL Hair Removal
This slightly more affordable device is shaped to fit the palm of your hand for an easier user experience.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
