13 Best IPL Hair Removal Devices You Can Use At Home – 2024
Have a long-lasting hair-free experience with skin-friendly formulations without breaking the bank.
Dr. Rosmy Barrios, MD, is a medical advisor for the Health Reporter, the head of the anti-aging department at IM Clinic, and a regenerative medicine specialist at Swiss Medica with over 10 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and cosmetology. She specializes in anti-aging treatments, dermal fillers, skin rejuvenation, cell therapy, and many other procedures.
Read full bio of Dr. Rosmy Barrios
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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If you are someone who is sick of tweezing, shaving, and waxing, you may have already contemplated opting for a more permanent form of hair removal. IPL hair removal is one such option that uses light therapy to target hair follicles and converts it into heat below your skin’s surface, and by doing so, hair growth is drastically reduced. IPL is different from laser hair removal, and there are major differences between the 2 forms of hair removal. IPL offers longer-lasting results, and many are also fit for use at home. Since IPL machines can be used at home, they are much easier and safer than other forms of laser hair removal. Keeping all of these points in mind, go through our article to read more into this and see if IPL is right for you.
In This Article
What Is An IPL Hair Removal Device And How Does It Work?
Deciding to invest in an IPL hair removal at-home machine means you should already be aware that these expert-recommended devices take time for results to show. A healthy waiting period could be anywhere around 4 to 6 weeks. The IPL technology uses a more unfocussed energy around the hair and skin area, thus differing from laser. IPL is a broad-spectrum light that scatters across the skin and directs itself at melanin to permanently reduce the regrowth of hair with proven efficacy.
We must also note that an IPL hair removal machine is not tested to be suitable for all skin or hair colors, the ideal candidates for these devices are those with dark body hair and contrasting skin tone – meaning lighter complexion. A higher level of melanin on your skin can easily be detected by the machine which may cause skin damage. Since you wish to dabble in the technical tidbits of body-care, it is in our best interest that we help you with the best IPL hair removal reviews of 2021 that will help you narrow your preferences.
Dr. Rosmy Barrios, MD and medical advisor for the Health Reporter, says, “Unfortunately, using this device on dark skin can cause harmful effects such as blistering or skin discoloration.”
Zap Your Body Hair With These 13 Best At-Home IPL Hair Removal Devices
1. Best Dual-Mode Device:XSOUL IPL Hair Removal Device
If you’re planning to get your hands on an IPL hair removal device, this home IPL machine from XSOUL will help you zap those unwanted body hair. Professionally designed to provide you a salon-like finish, the device’s 500,000 flashes will remain lifelong. To meet all the purposes of your at-home IPL treatment, this clinically tested machine comes with 5 energy levels and 2 modes. Auto-mode releases continuous flash compatible for face and body areas like underarms, chest, and bikini-line; whereas the manual-mode gives off one flash and is designed for back, arm, and leg hair removal. Since the home IPL hair removal technology promises more of a permanent solution to a hairless surface, you are advised to follow up an 8-week treatment in order to achieve optimal results.
- Does not hurt the skin
- 5 energy levels to match skin tolerance
- 2 modes – auto and manual
- Lifelong endurance up to 500,000 flashes
- Not cordless
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 9,319 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best Multi-Intensity Device:Krovena IPL Hair Removal System
The Krovena IPL Hair Removal System comes with 6 energy levels and 2 modes to remove hair painlessly on different parts of the body. With up to 999,999 flashes, this IPL hair removal system is deemed to provide you with the closest-to-permanent hairless skin. This fast and efficient treatment technology is developed under professional expertise, this machine is a bang for your buck as it results in a painless, harmless, and the most convenient hair removal session as compared to shaving, waxing, or epilating. With its 6-intensity light technology, you can set and adjust to these emissions at your pace and patience, as attested by reviewers.
- Painless and safe
- 6 energy levels and 2 modes
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Might take time to show results
3. Best For Sensitive Skin:Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 At-Home IPL Hair Removal System – PL5137
The Braun Silk-Expert comes with a whopping 400,000 flashes and 10 intensity levels. This means the IPL laser treatment for hair removal will last long, almost up to 22 years straight. The IPL beauty machine uses SensoAdapt technology with UV protection which examines your skin tone and adapts the flash intensity for the safest and most effective permanent hair removal. Its precision head helps you focus and reach smaller areas to zap the follicles without much hassle. This offers at-home convenience and it is clinically tested to be painless as well as procure faster results, the device also comes with an automatic skin tone sensor and 3 comfort modes— normal, gentle, and extra gentle for beginners or those with sensitive skin. Click on this demo video of Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 At-Home IPL Hair Removal System – PL5137 and explore the tester’s experience.
- 400,000 flashes
- 10 intensity levels
- Automatic in-built skin sensor to test tolerance
- Comes in 3 comfort modes
- Travel friendly
- Not cord-free
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 4,198 rave reviews on Amazon.
4. Best Cooling Effect:Sedengu Ice Hair Removal
This IPL laser hair removal device stands out from the rest with its super cool features — pun intended. This IPL hair removal at home device is referred to as an “ice cold epilator” that uses an ice cold compress head to tactically remove hair from the body. The cooling effect is inculcated to reduce chances of redness and burning sensation during or after the zapping session. A larger cooling area is said to reduce the size of pores when using the device to make the hair removal process pain-free. The maximum flash count for this machine is 999,999 that is enough for a lifetime. There are 5 energy settings devised into the making of the item. The higher the level, the greater the strength of the flash, resulting in better results.
- Relieves pain and redness using cold compress
- Up to 999,999 flashes
- 5 energy settings
- Brings faster results
- May take time to work with thicker hair
Pro Tip5. Best Clinically-Tested:Innza IPL Hair Removal For Women And Men
Another great device for permanent hair removal is this one from Innza. This clinically tested IPL home treatment is proven to deliver visible results in 8 to 12 weeks with a stark stunted hair growth pattern. With about 5 intensity settings, this handheld device ensures the light or flashes are perfect for your skin and hair type, saving time and money. The auto and manual modes in the clinically proven hair removal IPL machine help remove hair from any part of the body, big or small. Its continuous light bursts help speed up the process of hair removal from arms, or legs, as noted by reviewers. The manual mode gives you the control and precision needed for hair to be removed from difficult areas.
- Lives up to 999,000`flashes
- 2 modes for faster and precise application
- Results in quick visible changes
- Portable
- Easy to hold
- Not cordless
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 4,672 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
6. Best Dermatologist Recommended:Ulike Sapphire Air ++ Hair Removal Device
The Ulike Sapphire Air ++ Hair Removal Device is a painless option that delivers professional-quality results. It has a sapphire, light-based flat window design that removes hair from its root in a painless way. It has clinical-grade ice touch technology that lowers the temperature in contact with the skin. It imparts visible results with regular use. Get silky, smooth, salon-like skin with noticeable hair reduction after 4 weeks of use. It is tested to be suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used on the full body from the legs. It reduces stubble from the underarms to the bikini line. It also comes with a safety sensor which is praised in many reviews for its ability to allow the device to get activated only when it comes in contact with the skin.
- Cooling system
- Tested to be suitable for full body use
- Easy to use
- Visible hair reduction in 2 weeks
None
7. Best In Budget:Buoth IPL Hair Removal Device
This IPL laser hair removal handset is an adorable little device ideal for travel. The hair removal system adopts a clinically-proven technology used by dermatologists and salons for IPL sessions. It emits a warm light energy that is instantaneously absorbed by hair follicles, making them dormant. The device comes with 999,999 flashes and 5 adjustable levels with 2 modes. The design is handy and portable, almost resembling an epilator. Reduce razor bumps by embracing this technological device!
- Cost effective
- 999,999 flashes
- 5 levels of light intensity
- 2 modes for selective body parts
- Travel-friendly
- Longer waiting period for best results
8. Best FDA-Approved:Aminzer IPL Hair Removal
The Aminzer IPL hair removal system already stands out as it is powered with 10 intensity levels. Not only is it charged with 999,900 flashers, it is also deemed effective to 97.6% of people who tried this device. The 10 energy levels are created to help users have multiple options during sessions. This at-home professional hair removal technology brings about best long-lasting results within 8 to 12 weeks. To suit your aesthetic needs, this device comes in a gorgeous emerald green shade as well as an onyx black. It is one of the best IPL hair removal devices as its FDA-approved system uses fastest and efficient technology to give you best results within a 2-month period.
- FDA approved
- 10 intensity levels
- 999,900 flashes
- Guaranteed results in 2 months
- May cause ingrown hair for some
9. Best For All Skin Types:Nood The Flasher 2.0 IPL Hair Removal Handset
The Nood The Flasher 2.0 IPL Hair Removal Handset is designed to help you get professional-grade hair removal at the comfort of your home. Now say goodbye to shaving and unwanted hair and get silky, smooth skin in a painless way in just 8 weeks. The IPL technology of this device effectively removes hair from all areas of the body and its large applicator allows it to cover large areas quickly. Its powerful 999,999 flashes, lets you enjoy long-lasting hair reduction and faster flashing means better results.
- Long lasting results
- Visible results in 8 weeks
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- Not durable
10. Best Customizable:Aopvui IPL Hair Removal
The Aopvui IPL Hair Removal comes with 9 adjustable energy levels to customize your hair removal process from low to high. In addition, it is equipped with the fastest IPL technology that claims to remove full body hair in just fifteen minutes. This IPL machine is equipped with 999,900 flashes that come with two modes to adjust to your different skin areas. Not only is it compact in size, but it is also easy to use.
- Clinically proven
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Painless
- User-friendly
- Not suitable for dark skin tones or white, grey, blonde, and red hair colors
11. Best Cordless:TRIA Beauty Laser Hair Removal Device
The TRIA Beauty Laser Hair Removal Device can be conveniently used at home to get salon-like results. This powerful device uses diode laser technology that is also used by dermatologists in offices for light hair removal on areas like the face. It targets the pigment in the hair follicles and disables it leaving behind softer skin. It also shows gradual hair reduction, while stopping hair growth permanently. The slim, ergonomic design fits comfortably in the palms and has a digital display which ensures that it is safe to use on your skin type. Its 90,000 pulse count lets you enjoy smooth, hair-free skin for years to come. The device is the key to reducing skin irritation that comes with other hair removal products.
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic design
- Cordless
- Permanent hair reduction
- May not work on coarse hair
12. Best For Body Hair Removal:MichPong IPL Hair Removal Device
Free your skin from unwanted hair with this professional IPL machine that quickly gets absorbed by your hair follicle while entering into a dormant period to help you achieve permanent hair removal. The mechanics of the clinically proven device lie in its 5 energy levels and 2 flash modes ideal for all parts of your body where you’d like your fine hair removed. With enough control and 999,999 flashes, you can expect to have smooth and soft skin after a dedicated number of at-home IPL sessions with this machine. Within 4 to 8 weeks, you will notice 75% of the hair has disintegrated.
- 999,999 flashes
- Noticeable 75% changes within 8 weeks
- 5 energy levels to suit your skin
- 2 modes to cover larger or smaller areas of the body
- Not FDA approved
13. Best Pain-Free:Imene Sapphire Ice Hair Removal System
Our last recommendation consists of an icy touch to the design. Sapphire Ice technology is used in this Imene IPL machine to provide you with an absolute pain-free treatment. It incorporates Super Hair Removal (SHR) mechanism for smoother results and no uneasiness. With 12 energy level settings, you are in-charge of the intensity settings that provide you maximum comfort. There is also an added benefit of super energy mode which is the highest level of intensity that also works faster. Higher the energy, faster will the results be!
- 999,999 flashes
- 12 energy level settings
- Ice cooling feature
- SHR technology is included
- Results vary based on particular skin and hair colors.
Body hair removal remedies is easily one of the most sought-after markets online and offline. Oftentimes, we go through some excruciatingly painful techniques in order to unearth the hair from the skin leading to further rupturing of the skin tissues. IPL, on the other hand, is painless and does not affect your skin if used correctly. Therefore, the above list makes up for some of the best at home IPL hair removal devices. Though, IPL technology could be a new feat to venture, that is why we’ve helped you figure out what you should look for in your own IPL hair remover.
Things To Consider When Buying An IPL Device
- Skin tone
If you fall on the darker skin tones side of the skin color spectrum, it would mean you have a higher level of melanin. Now, high melanin gets easily picked up by the device and could eventually cause more damage to your skin. If you’re in doubt about whether you fall on the darker or lighter sides of the color umbrella, you can check out the Fitzpatrick skin type scale which helps classify skin types and their sensitivity in more detail.
- Hair color
As stated prior, these devices pick up melanin traces, thus, naturally light blonde, red, white and gray hair usually contain little to no pigment, so IPL typically will not be as effective on these hair colors. Those with pale to medium skin tone with dark hair are the best candidates for IPL.
- Number of flashes
The number of flashes or flash counts means the number of times the device can emit a flash. Most machines have a minimum of about 100,000 however, recent models do promise you a lifetime of usage without any replacements required.
- Level of intensities
A higher number of intensities will give you the control to use the device on your comfort and sensitivity of the skin.
- IPL is not meant for all
IPL technology also isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with special skin conditions, or those undergoing particular treatments. If you have tattoos or permanent makeup then these IPL flashes will be ineffective as well.
- Patch test
Whether you fall in the criteria for a good IPL hair removal session, always make sure to do a patch test on a small area of your skin to see if it is befitting to your needs.
It is extremely crucial to know how to use an IPL device so that you don’t end up doing it the wrong way. Here’s a guide on how to use an IPL device for best outcomes.
How To Use IPL Devices?
- Before getting started, you’ll need to shave the area you wish to treat with IPL. As for IPL hair removal to work effectively, some trace of hair is required to allow the light to detect the melanin which is why waxing or epilating is not advised.
- You may run the risk of burning your skin if your hair’s too long and unshaved.
- To get the most out of IPL, maintain a chain of regular sessions per week.
, MD and medical advisor for the Health Reporter, says, “It is also very important to avoid tanning the areas where you plan to remove hair in the sun for at least a month before each photoepilation procedure.”
Infographic: 6 Things To Keep In Mind Regarding IPL Hair Removal Devices
IPL hair removal devices offer an effective and permanent alternative to traditional hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, or depilating creams. These devices use pulses of broad-spectrum light to target the hair follicles and lead to a gradual but long-term reduction in hair growth. You can perform these treatments in the comfort and privacy of your home. Check out the infographic below for a few things to keep in mind while using these devices.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Hair removal is not always painful. Unlike the generic way of waxing, tweezing, threading, or shaving, the best IPL hair removal devices work effectively to remove the hair from the skin’s surface with heat. It also minimizes future hair growth. These are professionally designed to provide a salon-like finish. Some of these devices come with adjustable energy levels and modes to conveniently remove the hair from the skin without irritating the skin. In addition, some devices are great for targeting multiple areas and removing the hair follicles from those hard-to-reach areas. Also, some of the above-listed devices provide a cooling effect and reduce the chances of redness. You can check out our top recommendations that include the XSOUL IPL Hair Removal Device which features 5 energy levels and 2 modes and is thus suitable for all body parts, including the bikini-line, the Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 At-Home IPL Hair Removal System – PL5137 which is made from SensoAdapt technology to effortlessly and effectively remove hair with precision, or the Ulike Sapphire Air ++ Hair Removal Device which helps remove the hair from the roots to provide a painless experience and smooth skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Krati Darak, is a skin care enthusiast and believes that those who are tired of tweezing, shaving, and waxing on a regular basis should definitely check out these IPL hair removal devices. These offer longer-lasting results, and many are also fit for use at home. The list contains well-reviewed and high-quality products curated after thorough research. She has chosen the best ones for her readers to help them get hairless, smooth skin with each use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between IPL and laser hair removal system?
Laser treatments use different technology and light sources to target a focused area. The laser technique is considered more powerful than IPL but, for at-home purposes, an IPL machine with regular sessions will result in diminished hair growth pattern.
Is IPL hair removal safe?
IPL is considered a safe method to remove and reduce body hair provided the exact instructions are followed as stated in the manuals. Initially, you may feel a certain amount of heat due to the flash emissions, however, setting the intensity level will help you get adjusted to it. In any case of redness or any irritation or discomfort, it is safe to opt for a device that provides cooling benefits.
Does IPL hair removal hurt?
The flashes emit quickly within nanoseconds and are painless in most cases, however on the off chance you may find your skin to be heated or being flicked at, though it is still a pain-free situation if compared to traditional methods of hair removal.
Who can use an IPL hair removal device?
People who have a contrasting skin to hair color ratio are the ideal audience for these devices. So if you have pale to medium skin tone and darker body hair, then an IPL machine will do you justice although an IPL hair removal for dark skin is yet to be designed.
How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?
IPL technology takes time to reap noticeable changes, thus you could expect a waiting period of 4 to 6 weeks.
How quickly can I expect results?
IPL results are not instant, therefore you would be required to wait for 4 to 12 weeks to see any visible changes on your skin
Can IPL be used in pubic areas?
Yes, IPL is safe in the pubic region, especially on the bikini area. However, it is not recommended for the genital region because the skin may be darker, absorbing more light energy and perhaps causing discomfort.
Does IPL cause ingrown hair?
No, IPL does not cause ingrown hair. Rather, IPL is the only hair removal procedure that entirely helps in reducing ingrown hair.
What should I not do before the IPL?
Here’s what we should not do before the IPL.
• Avoid applying makeup before your treatment.
• Refrain from using any products that may irritate your skin, such as retin-A, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic or salicylic acids, astringents, or vitamin C.
• Refrain from waxing or using a depilatory on the treatment areas.
• Inform if you are taking any new antibiotics or drugs
• Sunburns and suntans should not be present on the skin.
Read full bio of Dr. Rosmy Barrios
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