After experiencing the many pitfalls of shaving (ingrown hairs, redness, irritation, and speedy re-growth), we contemplated alternative hair removal methods this season. Since professional laser hair removal isn't the most time-friendly option (visits take up to two hours, & cost upwards of $400 per session), and some of us can't head out to an appointment right now, we're looking at the next best thing: at-home laser hair removal devices.
As a certified Esthetician practicing many years in the professional hair removal space, I was lucky enough to combine my love for hair removal and science to discover which at home devices truly work, and which are just another overhyped disappointment.
We tested 24 at-home laser hair removal devices, including models from Tria, HappySkinCo, Silk'n, Braun, and 5MinSkin. We rated the best five options based on the following criteria:
Results
We tested how many weeks it took for us to stop our hair growth, ideally trying to stop hair growth a couple months into weekly use. A few of the devices ended up working extremely well, delivering permanently hairless, silky skin to us.
Cost
If you were to go the in-office route, it would end up costing up to 400 dollars per session (between 6-8 sessions needed for laser hair removal. We were able to get great results with devices that ended up costing less than $400, with the best results from a handset costing just around $189*.
Safe for At-Home Use
New York-based dermatologist Josh Zeichner, MD, considers at-home lasers a safe alternative. "Lasers work by emitting a beam of light that is absorbed by a specific target in the skin," Dr. Zeichner explains. "In this case, the light is absorbed by pigment in the hair follicle to heat it up and destroy it, so the hair does not grow back. At-home devices work similarly to professional treatments."
We looked for the laser hair removal options on the market that remove hair permanently & were suitable for at-home use.
Why Estheticians Chose 5MinSkin as the Best Overall Choice for Permanent Hair Removal
$189*
Effectiveness: 95%
Safety: 100%
Price: $
Overall: A+
By far, everyone had the best results with the 5MinSkin handset (known for their clinical devices, their at-home devices are also perfect for permanent hair removal).
A fan favorite since their company began, it features adjustable power levels, cooling technology, and glide mode - allowing for a painless and complete laser hair removal session in just 5 minutes. For all of us, it took just about 8 sessions using it once per week to stop unwanted hair growth. It was the only product on our list offering a special 50% off discount code OFFER50, which made it one of the most affordable products on the market. Use once per week, for 8 weeks to see permanent hair removal!
Works on all skin tones & hair colors.
Costs $378 at standard price.
Unique glide-mode feature, making it extremely simple & quick to use.
With glide mode - sessions take only around 5 minutes rather than the standard 20-30 minutes.
Harnesses the same IPL strength as a professional laser with a power of 62 Joules in each flash
Revolutionary cooling technology makes all treatments 100% painless
50% OFF During 4th of July Sale
It took us just about 8 uses to stop unwanted hair growth.
*50% OFF During 4th of July Sale
Remington IPL6000q Ilight Quartz
$486
Effectiveness: 90%
Safety: 86%
Price: $$$$
Overall: B+
Mainly for larger areas, Remington can be difficult for precise laser hair removal; for those of us who used the Remington, it took about 14 sessions for permanent hair removal.
Like Tria, it takes around 14-16 uses for permanent hair removal.
Difficult for precise areas.
A bit heavy, but with heavy-duty results - for most of us it gave us results after just about 14 uses.
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Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X
$499
Effectiveness: 89%
Safety: 85%
Price: $$$$
Overall: B
With Tria - it takes around 14-18 uses to stop unwanted hair growth. It's designed for more precise permanent hair removal as it does not include a glide-mode option.
Excellent for precise use, but difficult for broad areas like the arms & legs.
Complete results after 14 sessions.
Priced at $449.
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Silk’n Permanent Hair Removal Device
$429
Effectiveness: 85%
Safety: 80%
Price: $$$
Overall: B+
Like Remington & 5MinSkin, it's able to permanently stop unwanted hair growth after about 12 uses. It's loved for it's handheld size & simplicity of use.
Comfortable, handheld design & easy to treat any area.
Simple to use, it's a great choice for permanent hair removal.
$349 at standard price.
Similar to 5MinSkin - Silk'n stops hair growth within 12 uses.
Maureen Ryz
I've tried 5minskin, it works.
Tina Madrame
How does this work? Burns hair from the follicle? I've tried laser hair removal at a clinic & it was perfect for me.
Valerie DiPetrio
Clinic laser hair removal is faster to stop hair growth, Silk'n & 5minskin are about the same.
Maria Marissa
No skin irritation, i've tried 3 of these devices. Hair finally stopped growing back on the armpits & hasn't grown back for a month.
Eleanor Mouthy
Did anyone try Silk'n?
Petra Jaime
The worst part about shaving is having to think about it. It's why i went to a clinic & spent thousands to remove hair permanently, & later I used these type of at-home devices to get the same results on a different area.
Kristin Byrd
Price?
Jenna Ellis
Is There any Discount Codes?
5MinSkin
Yes @Jenna Ellis! Our 15% OFF Sale for new customers is still live, but due to high demand, we will be ending our sale on sunday! https://5minskin.com/specialdeal.
Joyce Adams
Guys, the discount link 5minskin sent is still working! I clicked the link they sent & the 15% OFF automatically applies when you reach checkout