
Constant shaving can be a pain—quite literally. Regular use of a manual or electric razor can lead to skin irritation like razor burns or painful ingrown hairs (both of which could result in hyperpigmentation or scarring). There is an alternative solution with fewer risks and more permanent results: Laser hair removal works by damaging hair follicles—without harming the skin around them when used properly—to reduce growth over time. According to dermatologist Dr. Arash Akhavan, the device should be set to your skin type for the safest results. “The only risk is a burn, but if the settings are set and the treatment is executed correctly, it is typically very safe and effective,” he says.
The best at-home laser hair removal devices cover a variety of areas on the face and body.
Whether you receive a professional treatment or opt to do it yourself from the comfort of your home, it will require a series of sessions for optimal results. With the proper tool, the latter can be more convenient and cost effective. From gadgets with cooling features to ones with skin tone-sensing technology, these are the best at-home laser hair removal devices for zapping unwanted body hair.
Best Laser Hair Removal Device Overall
A Best-Selling Hair Removal Tool For The Face And Body
Best Laser Hair Removal Device For The Bikini Area
A Powerful Hair-Growth Disruptor
Best Cooling Laser Hair Removal Device
A Top Pick For Sensitive Skin
Best Laser Hair Removal Device For Dark Skin Tones
A Device That’s Suited For Every Complexion
Best Compact Laser Hair Removal Device
A Good Option For Hair Removal On The Go
Best Painless Laser Hair Removal Device
A Tool You’ll Look Forward To Using
Best Laser Hair Removal Device For Hard-To-Reach Areas
A Perfect Pick For Smaller Areas
What To Consider In A Laser Hair Removal Device
While there are some cost-saving benefits to opting for an at-home laser hair removal device, finding one that can provide results on par with a professional treatment can be tricky. Factors like the number of flashes, skin type, safety and treatment area can have an impact on results. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Flashes
You can think of the number of flashes (also known as pulses) as the lifespan of the laser. It determines how long you can use the tool before it wears out. In many cases, you can achieve the results you want with one device. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban, areas such as the lip and face generally need about 25-50 flashes; the underarm or bikini line might need up to 200 flashes; larger areas like the legs may need 500-600 flashes each; the chest or back may require 700 or even 800.
Skin Type And Tone
Laser hair removal devices aren’t one size fits all. “Some may not be advisable for darker skin tones, which have a higher chance for issues such as burning or hyperpigmentation. Usually, lighter skin with darker hair is the best combination, but some can be used on all skin tones and types,” says Shamban. She suggests looking for an at-home laser that works well with your skin tone and hair color. There are also options with cooling technology that are great for sensitive skin.
FDA-Cleared
Safety is often a concern when using one of these laser tools. “Any device purchased for home usage should be FDA-approved or cleared,” says Shamban. This information should be indicated or marked on the device’s packaging or instructions. It’s also important to pay attention to the list of usages, as some versions are only safe to use on certain areas.
Treatment Area
It’s a good idea to keep your desired treatment area in mind when selecting an at-home laser hair removal device—especially if you want to cover larger parts on the body. Some are designed with small laser caps that are ideal for targeting places that are hard to reach, like the bikini line. However, they may be less efficient for large areas.