We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Laser hair removal at home is possible with small electronic devices. While less powerful than those available at a clinic, they can still be effective. We review the six best at-home lasers available online.
Here, we compare the products in this article based on their target areas and suitability.
| Target areas | Hair colors | Skin tones | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tria Beauty | any | light brown to black | fair to light brown | $499 |
| MiSMON | most, apart from the face | brown to black | light to light brown | $189.99 |
| Braun Pro 5 | any | light brown to black | light to light brown | $349.99 |
| SmoothSkin | any | light to dark | light to light brown | $349 |
| Braun Pro 3 | any | light brown to black | light to light brown | $285 |
When choosing a suitable laser hair removal device, it is important to consider the following:
- Skin and hair tone: Most at-home laser removal devices only work on darker hair and lighter skin tones.
- Target areas: Never use a device on the face or other sensitive areas unless it is capable of doing so.
- Number of pulses: Generally, the larger the number of pulses, the larger the target area. For example, using the device on the entire leg can take around 1,200 pulses.
- Type of lasers: Laser hair removal devices typically use diode laser or IPLE technology. IPL is usually less expensive but less powerful.
Home laser hair removal can work. However, the results a person experiences may depend on a range of individual factors, such as hair color and skin tone.
Additionally, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service says that laser hair removal does not work as well on tanned skin or sun-bleached hair.
However, the development of in-clinic lasers holds promise for darker skin tones. For instance, a
At-home devices may not produce the same effects as in-clinic machines. For example, a
Below are answers to common questions about at-home laser hair removal devices.
Can you use at-home laser hair removal on pubic hair?
People can use at-home laser hair removal on the bikini line, but it is not advisable for the genital area.
The genitals are more sensitive than the rest of the skin, making using a hair removal laser more painful. Additionally, there is usually greater hair density, which would absorb more light energy and may cause discomfort.
What are the downsides of at-home laser hair removal?
If people use at-home laser hair removal devices correctly, there are usually minimal side effects.
However, some people
People with lighter skin tones may experience redness, while individuals with darker skin tones may notice their skin turning gray, purple, or brown.
Do I need to shave before using at-home laser hair removal?
Yes, a person needs to shave the area they want to treat before they use an at-home laser hair removal device.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends shaving within 24 hours of laser hair removal treatment to help the laser easily locate the hair follicles. The ASPS also warns that the laser can burn hair that is too long and cause discomfort.
Laser hair removal uses high heat to destroy individual hairs and stop hair follicles from working. This means that the hair appears finer over time, and it will take longer for hair follicles to produce new hair. This can result in a gradual reduction of hair over weeks and months.
Using a laser hair removal device is cheaper and more convenient than undergoing treatment in a clinic. However, it carries more risk, and the results will likely be slower. Also, most at-home laser hair removal devices do not work on lighter hair or darker skin tones.
A person can choose a device based on the area of the body they wish to target. Since most people will need multiple treatments, they can also consider how long the device will likely last.
Laser hair removal is not permanent, but these devices can significantly reduce body hair with correct use. A person should follow all instructions carefully and be patient, as good results take time.