How to choose a laser hair removal device:

Not all laser hair removal devices for at-home use are created equal, and you don't want to waste your money on a device that either:

 

1.) doesn't work or

2.) isn't suited for your skin tone.

 

 

The best way to avoid that is by seeing what fellow shoppers have to say—look for 5-star ratings and reviews from people with your exact skin tone and hair color.

 

A device that works for someone with pale skin and dark hair may not work on your medium skin and light hair.

Device longevity is something to consider too, "Some of the at-home devices either stop working or need replacement lamps after a certain number of flashes, which can become pricey if you're trying to stay within a budget."

 

Sounds like a no-brainer, but reading the directions and following them step-by-step is crucial when using a laser hair removal device at home. The instructions vary from device to device, so just because you've tried one at-home laser hair removal device doesn't make you an expert on all of them, okay?

 

As a rule, start by shaving your skin with a new razor. You want the area to be clean, dry, and free of any lotions or creams. This will help make sure your device is reaching your follicles easily and directly. Then begin with the lowest energy setting and work your way up. It takes a few sessions to really get the hang of your device, so start slow and low to avoid mistakes and/or irritation.

 

Have patience

Laser hair removal doesn't work overnight—it takes multiple sessions spaced over many weeks to see maximum hair reduction. says Dr. Mansouri. Patience is key, y'all. You'll also want to consider the size of the device you're purchasing and the area where you intend to use it. Translation: Using a tiny device with little coverage can be incredibly time-consuming if you're using it to remove hair on large areas like your legs.

 

 

The very first downside is an obvious one: they aren't as strong or effective as professional machines used in clinics. Similar to professional laser sessions, with at-home devices it's going to take time to notice a difference — between five to eight sessions, per Shape. Despite them having less power, you should be warned that at-home laser hair removal devices are just as painful as the real thing. But above all else, the biggest downfall of at-home laser devices is that they don't work for everyone, and results can depend on your skin tone and hair thickness. 

 

The market for at-home laser hair removal devices has grown over the past few years. While at one point there was only a couple, now you have a vast variety that falls under two types: true laser hair removal devices and intense pulsed light (IPL) devices, per the Cleveland Clinic. At-home laser removal devices can also be expensive, costing upwards of $499 or more, but the thought is that over time your laser clinic appointments will add up to much more after a couple of sessions. So, it's definitely the more cost-friendly approach. But do they work? Yes, they do thin your hair out over time, but there are a few notes to keep in mind, according to Glamour.