The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (2024)

Let us help you make the most informed decision. We discussed this scenario with Minneapolis-St. Paul’s laser hair removal experts at Milan Laser Hair Removal. Check out what the experts say about at-home vs. in-clinic laser hair removal.

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The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (1)

How do at-home removal devices work?

At-home hair removal devices fall into two categories: intense pulsed light (IPL) and diode (an actual laser). It’s common for IPL to be confused with laser hair removal, but an IPL uses abroad wavelength of light that targets different skin elements instead of a true laser. The diode laser will work for all skin tones; however, due to its wavelength, the diode can only treat a small area at a time. If a diode is used, be sure to bring your patience. It will take some time to get the results you desire.

At-home devices require light to damage the follicle and compromise its growth cycle. However, keep in mind with these devices you’re on your own. You won’t have any medical training or laser hair removal professionals to provide oversight for a device that is not FDA-cleared. And don’t forget about eye safety. That’s not a worry in a professional clinic or spa because they provide protective goggles. You won’t get that with an at-home device.

How do the at-home device results compare to professional laser hair removal?

The average consumers who choose IPL or diode home devices see about a 70% reduction in unwanted hair following three months of use. But it’s important to note there’s no guarantee you will see results. And if you stop using these devices, your hair might grow back. It’s a different story when you go to the pros. Professional laser hair removal means choosing a powerful, more effective way to target hair follicles. The laser targets and destroys the hair follicle so it can’t grow back. And when these treatments are performed correctly, the results are permanent. Most Milan Laser Hair Removal clients are 95%+ hair-free within seven to 10 treatments.

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The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (2)

Who can use at-home devices?

Brown and black skin tones have a greater risk of burns or other complications with at-home devices. Some devices will even shut off if the skin tone isn’t compatible. Why does this happen? Because IPL devices can’t recognize the difference between the melanin in the follicle and deep skin tones, leading to burns, blisters, scarring, and discoloration. For peace of mind and safety, professional laser hair removal is the only safe option for all skin tones.

A highly reviewed and reputable professional clinic like Milan Laser Hair Removal can give you customized treatment plans. Milan Laser uses the Candela GentleMax Pro and includes two effective laser technologies for all skin tones: the Nd:YAG for deeper skin tones and the Alexandrite for lighter skin tones. The laser also works alongside Air-cooling Chiller technology to reduce potential discomfort and provide clients with safe, effective, and comfortable treatments.

How much does the at-home device cost compared to laser hair removal?

IPL and diode devices cost a few hundred dollars. But it’s important to note that at-home devices require additional parts, attachments, and replacement cartridges, which add to the cost. And because at-home device results aren’t guaranteed and are inconsistent, shaving and waxing will still be necessary to stay completely hair-free. That’s a lot of upkeep!

The average person who shaves their legs and underarms spends upwards of $10,000 over a lifetime on razors, shaving cream, exfoliants, and more. And if you prefer waxing, you’ll spend $18,000 over your lifetime at salons addressing your bikini area alone. But at Milan, affordable payment plans are offered and tailored to fit anyone’s monthly budget. Plus, with Milan’s Unlimited PackageTM, which comes with every service, you will get unlimited treatments at no additional cost, keeping you hair-free for life!

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The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (3)

Why professional laser hair removal is your best choice.

The best way to get hair-free for good is with in-clinic laser hair removal. There’s medical oversight, and you’re in the hands of experts. Treatments are done in a judgment-free environment by friendly medical professionals who care about you and your safety and can treat the hard-to-reach areas at-home devices can’t get.

Don’t be left to your own devices! Call Milan Laser at 833-NO-RAZOR or visit a local laser hair removal expert at any of Milan Laser’s Minneapolis-area locations conveniently located in St. Paul, Maple Grove, Woodbury, Edina, Apple Valley, New Brighton, Uptown, Minnetonka, and Vadnais Heights.

Keep up with Milan Laser Hair Removal on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to learn more!

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The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (4)

by Milan Laser Hair Removal

The Best At-home Laser Hair Removal Devices (Spoiler: There aren’t any.) (2024)

FAQs

Do any at-home laser hair removal devices work? ›

Yes, at-home laser-hair removal devices do work, but they take consistency. Because at-home devices use lower energy levels than in-office treatments, they require continued use (think: weekly, or every time you shave) to notice similar results, says cosmetic doctor Ana Mansouri, MD.

What no one tells you about laser hair removal? ›

It does not eliminate hair, it REDUCES hair

A common misconception is that laser hair removal is a permanent solution, but the reality is that its a semi-permanent solution. You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth and thickness, to the point where you won't need to shave as much.

How can I make laser hair removal more effective at-home? ›

Expert Tips for At-Home Laser Hair Removal
  1. Consider Your Skin Tone & Hair Color. Lighter skin with dark hair performs best for laser hair removal. ...
  2. Don't Forget a Patch Test. As a best practice, Dr. ...
  3. Never Pluck or Wax. ...
  4. Start With Clean Skin. ...
  5. Take Your Time. ...
  6. Prepare for Some Discomfort. ...
  7. Maintenance Is Key. ...
  8. Avoid These Areas.
Aug 18, 2020

What are the downsides of at home laser hair removal? ›

Risks of side effects vary with skin type, hair color, treatment plan and adherence to pre-treatment and post-treatment care. The most common side effects of laser hair removal include: Skin irritation. Temporary discomfort, redness and swelling are possible after laser hair removal.

Do portable laser hair removal machines work? ›

Short Answer – Yes, they do work.

Before diving headlong into the home laser hair removal world, let's take a closer look at how these devices work. As mentioned earlier, they target hair follicles using laser or IPL technology.

Do people ever regret laser hair removal? ›

But, as with any treatment that ends with more or less permanent results, not everyone is pleased with their decision. While some feel freedom after banishing all the hair on their bodies for good, others express deep regret — especially given how the conversation around body hair has shifted in recent years.

Should I laser my pubic hair? ›

' Yes, it is safe to laser the pubic area for most patients. It should be noted that this is one of the more sensitive areas when it comes to laser hair removal, but it is quick and effective. Many patients also believe it is overall less painful than waxing.

Why do I look hairier after laser hair removal? ›

The appearance of increased hair growth after laser hair removal can be concerning, but it's important to understand that this is a normal part of the treatment process. Hair shedding, hair growth cycles, and misconceptions about hair growth can all contribute to the perception of increased hairiness.

What is the most advanced laser hair removal technology? ›

Nd:YAG (Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) laser is the most recent laser hair removal technology and is considered the gold standard for treating individuals with darker skin tones.

Is at home laser as good as professional? ›

It might seem like a great investment at first. However, the at-home lasers available offer less power than a laser you'll find at a professional center. You can choose between two different types of at-home hair removal devices. These include true lasers and lasers that use intense pulsed light.

Why do I still have so much hair after laser? ›

And yes, you may still notice some hair a couple of days after your session, but this is often part of the natural shedding process or due to hairs that were in a different growth phase during treatment. Remember, quality laser hair removal is an investment in your confidence and well-being.

What happens if you do home laser hair removal too often? ›

Overdoing laser hair removal can result in skin irritation, redness, and swelling. This can happen if the skin is exposed to too much laser energy, causing damage to the surrounding skin tissue. The skin can become sensitive, making it more prone to burns and hyperpigmentation.

Can you laser pubic hair at home? ›

OG IPL Hair Removal Handset. Designed to promote long term hair removal with a 45-minute session once per week, this handheld IPL hair removal device can be used on any part of the body, including the face and bikini area.

Is at-home laser as good as professional? ›

It might seem like a great investment at first. However, the at-home lasers available offer less power than a laser you'll find at a professional center. You can choose between two different types of at-home hair removal devices. These include true lasers and lasers that use intense pulsed light.

How effective is home IPL laser hair removal? ›

However, IPL hair removal devices designed for home use can also deliver promising results: One 2019 study found that users had an 80% reduction in hair growth (specifically on the legs, armpits, and bikini area) more than a year after they stopped using an at-home device.

What is the difference between laser and IPL? ›

“The key difference between IPL and Laser is the type of light. Laser light is monochromatic, non-divergent and targets very specific concerns. IPL produces a broadband spectrum of white light, producing a mixture of many different colours.

Does nood work on pubic hair? ›

Which areas of my body can I use The Flasher 2.0 by Nood on? The Nood handset is effective to use everywhere that hair grows, including your arms, underarms, hands, legs, chin, neck, back, and bikini line.

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