CONTENTS
Best Laser Hair Removal at Home Devices – November, 2024
Please find our detailed analysis, buying guide and test results of all the home laser hair removal models after the comparison table.
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Introduction and Buying Guide
Laser technology is moving into the home to help with permanent hair removal, but which device is best for your needs and should you put your trust in? Groom+Style investigates.
Even without a scientific or medical background, one can still recognize the usefulness of lasers.
The applications of lasers had expanded beyond what even the researchers at Hughes Research Laboratory in California could have imagined when they activated the world’s first operational laser in 1960. Lasers have been employed for various functions, from laser sights and pointers to military operations and surgical procedures. Nowadays, people can even use laser hair removal at home.
Laser Hair Removal At Home – Growing Popularity
We can ensure that nobody predicted the application of laser technology for removing hair at home using a hair removal device.
Nonetheless, many women and men have preferred DIY laser hair removal.
However, there are some downsides to using lasers for hair removals, such as the limited effectiveness of most devices on dark skin or light hair, the need for patience due to the long-term process involved, and the cost.
But there are several reasons for the growing popularity of LHR in recent years: treated areas stay hair-free for months or years, and it’s less painful than waxing or even a few bad razor cuts. (There is still some pain associated with the laser “zaps,” though, so it’s a good idea to start out by using numbing cream until you know whether it’s needed for future sessions.)
There are some who are scared by the word “laser” and would never dream of trying to use one at home. However, we think a laser (which isn’t dangerous at the power levels used in a home LHR machine) is a lot less scary than the prices that professionals charge for laser hair treatments – which can total thousands of dollars, while a good home machine costs only hundreds.
Don’t forget to check the “Must Know” section at the end of this article section before making any buying decision.
Laser Technology vs Intense Pulsed Light
It’s important to note that while many home hair removal devices are referred to as “home lasers,” only a select few actually use laser technology. Most use a less powerful light-based technology called intense pulsed light (IPL). To distinguish a quality laser hair removal device from a subpar one, it’s recommended to consult Groom+Style’s list of the top 5 best at-home hair removal lasers.
Best Home Laser Hair Removal Devices – Top 5 Reviews For 2024
1. Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X
There really wasn’t much question which laser hair removal product belonged at the top of our rankings. The Tria has been around longer than its competitors, it was the first LHR system approved by the FDA as safe and effective for home use, and it uses the same technology (laser diode) that pros use in the salons which charge big bucks for a full series of laser treatments.
Automatic Lock if Skin Tone is Too Dark
Groom+Style wouldn’t go as far as saying that any machine (of any type) is idiot-proof, but Tria does all it can to make sure this laser is used properly. We’ve already mentioned that most lasers won’t work on dark-toned skin; the 4X makes certain that it’s appropriate for your skin tone with a built-in skin sensor. If it’s safe for you, the machine beeps and unlocks. Otherwise, the Tria stays locked and you won’t be allowed to use it.
Easy to Use Digital Interface
Once you have the go-ahead (and have read the instructions to know what you’re doing), there’s a terrific digital user interface on the 4X which helps you select one of five strength settings (starting low is a good idea) and counts the number of laser pulses you’ve administered during the session (the instructions explain the proper number of pulses required for each area).
Cordless and Ergonomic
We like that the Tria machine operates cordlessly and is ergonomically designed. The size of the laser head is more of a mixed bag; it’s small so it can be used to accurately target areas like the bikini line, but that also means it takes longer to work on larger areas like the leg.
That actually didn’t bother us, since laser hair removal isn’t a quickie procedure like shaving. When it’s going to take a few months to do the number of treatments required to get rid of all stubborn hair, taking things gradually shouldn’t really be an issue.
Finite Number of Flashes – No Replacement Cartridge
One major difference between the 4X and most competitors is that there’s no cartridge to replace, meaning virtually no maintenance is required. However, that convenience comes with a price of sorts; once you’ve “used up” the laser flashes stored in the machine, it becomes a very expensive doorstop.
With a capacity of 90,000 flashes the Tria should last at least a few years, but after that, you’ll need to purchase a new unit. On the other hand, the average laser cartridge (for machines other than the Tria) only provides about 1000-5000 flashes, so you’d have to buy as many as 90 cartridges for those machines to match the price of the Tria 4X.
How Good Is the Hair Removal With the Tria 4X?
The one thing we haven’t mentioned yet are results, and this machine provides them. In the first few weeks there should be small signs that the treatments are working; in 2-3 months the areas that have been treated will be much less dense than they used to be as hair re-growth is lessened and the hair that does re-grow is lighter; after that the treated follicles should stop growing new hair completely, only requiring touchups and some maintenance from that point forward.
Quite simply, the 4X does exactly what it’s supposed to do, effectively removing hair for the long term at a price way below the cost of professional treatments and better than the competition – probably because this machine really does use laser light rather than IPL technology. Specifications of the Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X:
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Check Our Detail Review of The Tria Beauty Laser Hair Removal Device
2. Remington iLIGHT Pro Plus Quartz Hair Removal System
IPL Rather than Laser Technology
This product uses the IPL system, rather than an actual laser, to remove hair. It ranks #2 on our list of the top 5 best at home lasers because it outperforms most IPL devices, thanks to the use of quartz light rather than flashes from an ordinary glass bulb.
This model can only be used on the body, see section 2.1 for an iLIGHT model that can be used safely on the face (for women).
The Remington operates in a fashion similar to the Tria; you give each target area the designated number of flashes, and over a period of time all of the hair follicles are disabled so hair doesn’t grow back. That period of time, however, is longer than with the Tria because IPL pulses simply aren’t as strong as those from a laser.
Greater Area, Less Accuracy
The light-emitting head on the iLIGHT Pro Plus Quartz is larger than the head on the Tria 4X, meaning the light reaches an area more than twice as large which makes it possible to work faster. The downside is that it’s trickier to use this unit to treat small areas like the bikini line with pinpoint accuracy.
As with most laser systems, this one is not meant for dark skin or light hair, and there’s a skin tone sensor similar to one on the 4X. The manufacturer also specifies that it should only be used below the neck. It’s easy to hold and use this unit because it’s shaped much like a computer mouse and fits nicely in the hand.
Good for 30,000 Flashes
A real positive when comparing the Remington to other IPL devices (including the lower-level Remington, the iLIGHT Pro Plus without the quartz bulb) is that its cartridge is built to deliver 30,000 flashes, good for at least a year’s worth of treatments before it needs to be replaced.
However, the iLIGHT is also more expensive than most IPL machines. There are two arguments for choosing the Remington over the Tria:
1. the treatments are less painful with the iLIGHT (but that’s simply because the skin is being hit with light flashes that aren’t as powerful as the ones produced by the Tria’s laser).
2. depending on your preferences, the iLIGHT is corded so you do not have to worry about recharging it between treatments.
2.1 Remington iLIGHT Ultra Face & Body Hair Removal System
Remington also has a more expensive model that also uses a Quartz lamp, is capable of 65,000 flashes and is FDA approved for use on facial hair (for women only).
Check Remington iLIGHT Ultra Face & Body Price on Amazon
You’ll see good results from this FDA approved at-home “laser” when used properly – you’ll just have to wait longer to see them than if you had used the Tria or gone to a salon for professional treatments. Looking at the details of the Remington iLIGHT Pro Plus Quartz Hair Removal System:
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3. Philips Lumea Comfort IPL Hair Removal System
Approximately 250,000 Flashes
If the price tags of our first two choices are a little steep for your tastes, the Groom+Style Team for art of shaving suggest taking a look at this excellent Philips Lumea unit.
It is meant to last a very long time; the bulb cartridge can’t be changed, but the company claims it provides a whopping 250,000 flashes before the machine needs to be replaced, providing great value.
Glide/Slide & Flash – Glide the Unit Over Your Skin
One nice feature of this hair remover is a “slide and flash” mode, which lets you glide the unit over your skin, flashing as it goes, rather than having to deal with each patch of skin individually. There’s also a “stamp mode” meant to be used on the smaller areas of the bikini line and the face. As with our first two choices, there are five intensity modes and a skin sensor on the Lumea Comfort because it isn’t meant for dark skin or light hair.
The downside and upside are the same as with other IPL machines. It will take longer to see results than with the Tria laser because the light pulses aren’t as powerful, but that means the treatments aren’t quite as painful.
The Philips Lumea comes with a 180 day trial with money back satisfaction guarantee (at the time of writing this was for the United States, please do check the specifics for your country of purchase).
3.1 Philips Lumea BRI956 Prestige IPL Hair Removal for Body, Face, and Bikini
The top of the range model released by Philips, that can be used corded or cordless, is safe for the body and face, and is suitable for those with a skin tone of Type V (on the Fitzpatrick scale). For those who prefer IPL and have a larger budget, this model might be worth considering.
A nice machine at a nice price – but sooner or later, it will have to be thrown away since you can’t buy replacement cartridges. Facts and figures for the Philips Lumea Comfort IPL Hair Removal System:
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4. Silk’n Flash & Go Hair Removal Device Original
Please also read section 4.2 & 4.1 below as there are newer models that no longer require replacement cartridges.
Corded IPL Device for Lighter Skin
Another IPL system (they call it HPL for “home pulsed light”) which is the least-expensive of the “laser” hair removal devices on our list, this product from Silk’n is shaped like a police radar gun and has defined the medium-range hair removal market for quite a while.
The Flash&Go is similar to the IPL units we’ve already discussed: it’s corded, it’s FDA approved, and it has a skin sensor because it’s not appropriate for use on dark skin (see section 4.2 for the Silk’n Infinity which can be used on dark and light skin).
5,000 Flashes with Replacement Cartridge (see section 4.1 & 4.2 for versions which don’t have replacement cartridges)
The standard bulb on the Silk’n machine is good for 5,000 flashes after which the bulb cartridge must be replaced, and the machine is OK for use on the face – although it has a head that’s on the large side, so your results working on small areas may not measure up to the performance of the Tria or Lumea. As with all quality IPL units, you’ll see good results but they’ll take longer to occur than with the Tria because of the less powerful IPL light flashes.
Cartridge Replacement Options
This Silk’n model has 1000 flash replacement cartridges, although the company does offer a Long Life Upgrade cartridge with 120,000 flashes. There’s also a Silk’n “Luxx” model similar to the Flash&Go unit gives you 120,000 flashes standard. If you plan to be a heavy user, either of those options would probably make sense for you.
Going in-depth on the Silk’n Flash&Go Hair Removal Device:
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4.1 Silk’n Infinity 400,000 – Suitable for Almost ALL Skin and Hair Colours
Silk’n keeps innovating and improving their products, and have released the Silk’n Infinity 400,000.
This product gives hope to people who have previously been unable to use at home “laser” hair removal devices due to the color of their skin or hair.
Although Groom+Style have not tested the device on the full range of skin and hair available Silk’n say that the Infinity 400,000 is suitable for all skin colors and almost all hair colors.
Effectively, the product is only unsuitable for people who have BOTH black skin (Type VI on the Fitzpatrick Scale ) AND white or grey hair.
The product works via a combination of galvanic and optical energy – see diagram below.
Other great features of this product are that: – as the name suggests the Silk’n Infinity will emit up to 400,000 pulses. – it can be used on facial and body hair – it is suitable for both men and women – it can be used via the pulse and glide method, meaning treatments should take less time |
5. Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System
ELOS Technology For Darker Skin
OK, those of you with dark skin have been very patient, so we have a “laser” hair removal just for you. The Me My Elos uses a slightly different FDA-approved technology called ELOS, which is similar to IPL but “color blind.”
Just about everything else about the Tanda is similar to the IPL at home lasers we’ve discussed, so we won’t go into great detail. It can be used on the face as well as the lower body, has a large head for covering good-sized patches of skin, and comes with a quartz cartridge delivering 500,000 flashes.
The latest model is called the Elos Touch Advance and has 500,000 pulses.
Unfortunately, as with most products which have the market cornered (in this case, the dark skin market), the cost is high. When you consider the number of flashes included, though, it’s not a terrible deal and it’s a good system for an IPL model. The specs for the Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System:
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Things You Need to Know Before You Go Shopping for Your Laser Hair Removal Device
There are a lot of factors that go into determining which system is the best for you, and these are but some of the vast number of systems that are available in stores and online. Each of these systems offers benefits for the consumer, and the system that you should purchase will depend on your specific needs.
Based on the objective facts and taking the majority of the population into consideration, the best laser home hair removal system is the Tria Laser Hair Removal 4X, with its ease of use and low operating costs. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get the look that you want, but you can’t assume that you can spend next to nothing for your perfect look either.
Skin Tone: Though there have been some technological advancements that made laser hair removal systems viable for darker skin tones, if you have olive colored skin or darker, you need to find a system that is FDA rated for your skin tone. Fair skinned women can use just about any system out of the box with no problem. Talk to your dermatologist to get some help determining whether or not a home hair removal system is suitable for your skin type.
Darker skinned women (and men) can check out the Silk’n Infinity in section 4.1 and the Tanda Me in section 5.
Hair Color: Blondes might have more fun, but when it comes to laser home hair removal, blondes have a tough time. The lasers have a hard time picking up the light pigmentation of blonde, white or red hair, and so the systems are not as effective with those hair colors. On the other hand, if your hair is brown or black, you should see fantastic results with most laser removal systems.
Lighter haired women (and men) can check out the Silk’n Infinity in section 4.1.
Price: The upfront price of a home system might seem shocking at first, but when you compare it to several trips to the doctor for treatments, you actually come out ahead. Be sure to invest in a quality system, otherwise, you do run the risk of skin damage and ineffective removal. A good starting point is around $300 for a mid-range kit.
Ongoing Costs: Finally, there are several systems on the market that have a low initial setup price, but they prove to be more costly to operate in the long-run because they require replacement cartridges every few months. Depending on how often you plan to use the machine and how expensive the replacement cartridges are, you might be better off paying a little bit more upfront for a cartridge-free kit.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Do home hair removal lasers really work?
Home hair removal lasers use intense pulsed light (IPL) technology to target the melanin in the hair and damage the hair follicle to prevent regrowth. Some studies have shown that home hair removal lasers can be effective in reducing hair growth, although results may vary depending on individual factors such as skin tone, hair color, and the type of laser used.
However, it’s important to note that home hair removal lasers may not be as effective as professional laser hair removal treatments, and they may also come with some risks. It’s always best to consult with a qualified dermatologist or a licensed professional before using any home laser hair removal device.
Additionally, most home hair removal lasers are not FDA-approved, and they may not have the same level of safety and efficacy as professional devices. They also may not be suitable for all skin types and hair colors.
Overall, home hair removal lasers may work for some people, but it’s best to consult with a professional and weigh the benefits and risks before using one.
Conclusion
To sum up, laser devices for removing hair at home can effectively reduce hair growth, but selecting the appropriate one for your needs is crucial. The best hair removal laser for home use is determined by individual factors such as skin tone, hair color, and hair thickness.
It is also important to seek advice from a qualified dermatologist or licensed professional before using any laser hair removal device at home. Not all devices are suitable for all skin types and hair colors.
Moreover, reviewing Groom+Style’s top list of the best laser hair removal at home is recommended to make an informed decision. Before using a laser hair removal device, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and risks carefully and follow the instructions provided.
Hi,
This article is really helpful. I am from India with a wheat-ish skin and dark colored hair. I have facial hair especially on cheeks and chin. I have already gotten a professional treatment (8 sessions – Candela machine) for my face which I did not find very effective. Thus, now I am looking for a home laser hair removal treatment for my face and other body parts. Can I still use one of the above mentioned products after getting a professional treatment? If yes, which one would be the best?
Thank you,
Rachita
Hi Rachita,
Thanks for the question. Yes, there is nothing stopping you from trying an at home laser hair removal device.
Based on your skin tone and hair color, and if you budget allows, I would suggest you try the Tria.
Do let me know if you have any follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I am 65 and have light skin with some brown hair, white, and gray. I have been told that no laser or IPL will detect the white or gray hair. Is this true. Any one of them work for these colors?
Hi Wendy,
Unfortunately, your understanding is correct. The Tria laser and IPL devices work by targeting the dark pigment in the hair which allows the laser energy to be absorbed and then in turn disable the hair follicle – so no at home device will be strong enough to be effective.
Your best bet would be to ring a professional clinic and ask what they suggest, the lasers at clinics are much more powerful.
The other option you might want to consider is electrolysis – this is very effective for smaller areas of stubborn hairs!
Good luck, and I hope this helps a little bit.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Can I use Tria when I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Hi Ana,
Unfortunately, we are not qualified to give medical advice in regards to the safety of laser hair removal treatment and pregnancy.
From reading other reputable sites like the one linked below we would recommend that it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid it. At the end of the day there have been no scientific studies into the effects but it is probably best to avoid all unnecessary treatments.
We hope that helps.
https://www.healthline.com/health/laser-hair-removal-pregnancy
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I am looking for a product to remove very light facial hair. My skin tone is also light. Is the Tria the product most likely to reduce, and then remove all my facial hair?
Hi Sandra,
Thanks for the quesiton. Yes, if the facial hair is darkish, and your skin tone is light then the Tria is the best at home laser hair removal option available.
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi there,
I was recently introduced to this product: Kenzii Hair Removal Handset. It was not on your top 5 list for IPL hair removal products (https://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-shaving/5-best-home-hair-removal-laser-devices-reviewed/) and I haven’t been able to find a review as detailed as your article (particularly in terms of the # flashes and skin type that it works for). Would you be able to comment on the product please?
Hi Angel,
Thanks for the question.
We have not tested the Kenzii but from a quick look at their website it appears to be very similar (identical?) to the Philips Lumea Comfort IPL Hair Removal System.
Personally, I will shop with the better known brand, but the choice is yours.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, really appreciate the thorough post! I’m a south asian girl with very light skin but coarse dark hair. I want to get rid of the hair from pretty much all parts of my body – upper lip included. (potentially sideburns unless that’s too risky to do myself). I was thinking of IPL cause it seems quicker (in the short term) than the tria but my goal is to get rid of all hair in 6 months, would you recommend going for IPL or laser? (and which one?)
Thank you 🙂
Hi Priyanka,
Thanks for the question.
From our experience we have always found the Tria to be the most effective at home laser hair removal option available. Where budget allows, and skin and hair color aligns the Tria will outperform the IPL solutions.
Good luck.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Great article!
I am looking to buy my first home laser hair removal device, and love your recommendations.
I just wanted to ask you, seeing you have the knowledge and experience in this area and also giving the fact that I’m quite new at this, have you heard about Heysilkyskin? I came across my social media, and just wanted to know is it really good or it’s just good marketing and Tria is a lot better?
Thank you!
Hi Katey,
Great you found the article helpful.
We have not tried the product you mention, but from what we have read it is an IPL device. The Tria is Laser Diode so is more effective. If you can afford it, and your skin and hair color matches, then we would suggest you focus on the Tria Laser hair removal device.
Good luck with the choice.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Great article… I wish I had read this before spending a little too much $ on these things… My hubby was getting annoyed after the third one came in. Like Roxanne said below, I had to be careful around my tattoos. Do you have any recommendations for post-treatment lotions etc. when using IPL around Brazilian areas and tat’s? FYI this is the last product that I purchased for your reference… Silktouch IPL Laser Handset its not on your review but it looks similar to the Silkn one. Thanks!
Hi Teresa,
Thanks for the comment. We cannot give “medical” advice, but the best pre/post laser hair removal regime I have discovered is below. But use a bit of trial and error and logic and see what works for you.
Pre treatment (for the really sensitive people)
– take some anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen
– take an anti-histamine
(this is not recommended of course, but some people even have a glass of wine)
Post treatment
– got easy right after the treatment (first 24 hours), and maybe just use some ice to reduce swelling/redness
– avoid sun
– use a very gentle moisturiser that you have tested before (to make sure you have no reaction to it)
Hope these tips help!
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi! Thank you for a very detailed article! I’ve read a lot of reviews and this one is the best I’ve found. I’ve learned that one must avoid areas with tattoo, but can we use IPL on scars? My scar is not a keloid, a bit hollowed actually, in a shape of a coin slot lol. The outline and inner area are colored between type IV-V, and a layer between those two are very pale in color. Hoping to hear from you! 🙂
Hi Roxanne,
Thanks for the question. The key concern for Laser hair removal and IPL treatment is “excessive” pigmentation in the skin. So if the scar has healed cleanly there is unlikely to be any adverse affects with laser hair removal or IPL treatment.
As the area might be slightly more sensitive, start with a lower setting and test a spot area first…
Good luck!
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I am looking for the best one just for lip and chin facial hair. Is the Tria best for this or is something smaller better?
Hi Sandy,
Yes, the tria works great for upper lip and facial hair (assuming your body hair and skin color fits the desired range). If you only want a device for your face then you could consider the Tria Precision (Hair Removal Laser ) – it is a much smaller device specifically designed to be smaller and more ergonomic.
You can read more on Amazon via this link -> https://geni.us/tria_precision
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi,
Thank you for the nice review. It’s been very informative. I have few questions:
1. Do any of these devices safe to use for pubic hair removal? Is it same as bikini line? What I mean is to remove “every bottom hair’??
2. For the Tria 4x, I know it’s seems like the best from multiple reviews, however, since the working area is small, and only come with 90,000 flashes. Is it mean the device will be used up much quicker compare to other competitors????
Hi Caramelo,
Thanks for the questions.
We have answered these question in greater detail in the comments section below to other readers- so please read those answers for the in depth reply.
In summary:
1) Using laser hair removal on any area of skin that is darker i.e. the genitals increases the risk of adverse effects. It is safe on the bikini line but be careful on the genitals and anus.
2) We have estimated you can treat the whole body with the Tria about 45 times – which means for one person it should laser “forever”
Please read our detailed answers to your questions in the following comments section below:
Laser hair removal on the pubic region.
Please read our detailed reply to Joao.
Tria Laser hair removal lifespan with 90,000 flashes.
Please read our detailed reply to Elisabeth
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Really insightful and well-written article. Again thanks for your reviews and will definitely be back for some tips and tricks.
Regards, Happy Skin Co
How often can you use the Elos on the face? Every day? Once a week?
Thanks
Hi Glenda,
I am sure there is a “largeish” factor of safety built into the instructions (which suggest 1 treatment a week for 7 weeks). More frequent treatments might provides slightly faster results, however, there is also a point at which too many treatments will provide no additional benefits, while exposing you to greater risks of “burns/irritations/etc”…
At the end of the day, you do have to wait for your body hair to respond, deactivate, and complete its natural growth cycle.
Personally, I would follow the instructions…after the completed cycle if you have not got the results you desire you might then be able to increase the frequency by a factor of say “10-20%” i.e. in slow increments…? But when you do this, watch out for any of the specified side affects.
Another alternative is to contact Elos directly and ask their advice.
Hope this helps a bit.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, I have dark skin and dark brown hair.
So I want be permanently hairless within 3 months. Unfortunately I guess I can’t use home laser hair removal machine for this. Because I got to know home laser hair removal devices are not powerful as clinic devices. Is the best solution go to clinc for laser treatments?
Hi Gia,
Yes, with your darker skin (and 3 month goal) the most effective method would be to go to a professional laser hair removal clinic.
If required you could then utilise the Tanda Me for longer term at home maintenance.
Good luck with your journey.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your article.
I am light skinned and have dark hair and have spent 5 sessions Salon laser (Candela Device) which was so effective but still I have dark hair in some parts. I ‘m looking for a very powerful and effective home laser hair removal with a quick treatment. I would be thankful if you could introduce me the best one?
thank you,
Mina
Hi Mina,
Thanks for the question. The most powerful home laser hair removal device for people with light skin and dark hair is the Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X…
Good luck!
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi there,
I have curly/coarse hair, which results in some really terrible and unsightly bumps and ingrowns all over my legs. Consequently, I’ve been considering laser/electrolysis as a more permanent solution to this problem. I’m very fair with brown (not super dark but definitely brown) leg hair. Do at-home lasers seem like a realistic/reasonable solution for me? Is there one model you would recommend over another? I’m really inclined to consider the home options as they’re far more affordable than in-office treatments.
Thanks so much,
Remy
Hi Remy,
Thanks for the question. Yes, with your fair skin and brown hair the Tria laser would be a great choice!
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Thank you for the article!
I have light skin and dark hair – with quite a number of birthmarks / pigment spots.
Can i still use the “regular” machines (not only the one suitable for dark skin)?
Thank you in advance!
Best regards
Monika
Hi Monika,
Thanks for the great question. Yes, you can still use a “regular” machine that works for light skin, but you do want to avoid activating the device directly on birthmarks, moles, pigment spots etc. Even if you choose a machine for darker skin, you still want to avoid treating birthmarks etc as well.
We recommend covering any skin spots with a small amount of tape/plaster etc before performing a treatment – and even when you have done this, you still want to avoid activating the laser directly on these spots i.e. please treat around them.
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, while deciding on Braun IPL, I came to know about Beurer IPL. Which is the better one without harming the skin or any side effects?
Hi Christy,
They both look like good quality IPL devices from reputable brands (Braun and Beurer) and as such should be safe if used according to the operating instructions and common sense (as with all laser hair removal and IPL devices).
The key difference seems to be that the Braun Gillette Venus Silk-Expert IPL 5001 has 300,000 flashes and the Beurer IPL Long Lasting Pro Hair has 150,000 flashes – which pretty much accounts for why the Braun is twice the price of the Beurer.
For those readers who want to know more about these products, you can read more on Amazon via the links below.
Braun Gillette Venus Silk-Expert IPL 5001 (300,000 flashes) -> https://geni.us/braunlaser
Beurer IPL Long Lasting Pro Hair (150,000 flashes) -> https://geni.us/beurerlaser
Hope this information helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Thank you so much for the article.
I was wondering if you could start with the #1 product (TRIA) which is Laser technology and later move to the LHR technology for touch ups? I am sure new LHR technology will be released by the time the original Tria is used up so I am not asking which LHR to move to yet. I’d like on with many pulses and replaceable cartridges. I am light skinned and have medium brown hair to dark brown hair. I see they are safe for the face, but I was wondering about the eyebrows. Would it be harmful to touching up the eyebrows?
Hi Elisabeth,
Thanks so much for the questions.
Firstly, the Tria manual clearly states, “Do not use the Tria Laser 4x on or around the eyes, eyebrows or eyelashes. Doing so can cause permanent eye injury.” If you have any further questions about this I would suggest you call/contact Tria directly and see what they say.
The Tria laser 4x comes with 90,000 flashes. The approximate number of flashes per treatment area is:
Upper lip – 25 pulses over 2 to 3 minutes.
Underarms – 100 pulses per side over 4 to 5 minutes.
Bikini line – 200 pulses per side over 8 to 10 minutes.
Upper leg – 600 pulses per side over 25 to 30 minutes.
Below knee – 600 pulses per side over 25 to 30 minutes.
So if you were to approximate this up to 2000 flashes for your who body you could get 45 treatments for your whole body, which we would suggest should be enough to last your “forever”. Therefore, you probably do not really need to be thinking about dual treatments with IPL for touch ups – especially for someone with light skin and brown/dark hair such as yourself where the treatment should be really effective.
Do let me know if you have any follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I had no idea that laser hair removal treated areas stay hair-free for months or years, and it’s less painful than waxing. I have recently gotten so tired of the constant shaving and razor bumps and am looking for an alternative. I will definitely keep your advice in mind when looking for a new hair removal method.
Hi! Thank you very much for this helpful info!
I am tired of years of booking appointments and spending on laser sessions. I wanted to ask: Would you recommend a home device for someone doing “maintenance” like me? I am a 40 year old woman with olive skin ( or a little darker), and after years of lasering, due to my age, some thin, whispy black hairs are resurfacing on my face (chin, upper lip). I also have “hair points” on my chin that look like blackheads, but according to my derma, are actually hair (sigh).
All the best
Hi Marie,
I think this would be the ideal situation. Home laser hair removal devices cannot be made as power as clinic devices (for safety reasons), so if you already have very minimal hair from professional treatments, then buying a device such as the Tria Laser to maintain your existing treatments, should work very nicely indeed.
Do let me know if you have any follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, I am a male and am thinking about Brazilian, can any of these home devices be used for that? I understand that a Brazilian can be done by a professional but their products are more powerful are they not? I don’t understand why I can’t use a home device. What could happen if I do? Thanks very much for your time, John LaMarche
Hi John,
Thanks for the question and comment. So if I understand correctly your goal is to be completely hairless [permanently] in your pubic region – and you are wondering if an at home laser hair removal device is able to achieve that for you…if that is the case please read Lisa’s detailed answer to Joao below, on FEBRUARY 1, 2018.
You can also read a bit more about other hair removal methods in the articles below:
https://groomwithstyle.com/how-to-shave-pubic-hair/
https://groomwithstyle.com/how-brazilian-wax-home/
Let me know if you have any other follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Pierce
Hi
Thank you so much for the article.
I am just looking into laser treatment again and have found articles about home treatment.
I am a fair skinned Irish girl with dark hair and successfully had upper lip salon laser treatment in my 30s which I would not hesitate to recommend if you can afford it.
I am now in my 50s and going through the menopause. The hair that is now growing on my chin and cheeks is thick course and mostly black, there is some grey but it is the black ones that concern me. It is very male in texture and if I stopped plucking I would probably have pretty much a beard. So when the products say not to use on male facial hair will they work on my menopausal course hair. I am drawn to the tria but if I splash out on an expensive product would also like to use it on as many parts of my body as I can specifically my under arms, bikini line which I presently epilate.
Hi Sarah,
I think the Tria Laser would be the best choice for your situation. The question, however, is how dense are those problematic facial hairs. The key concern for men is the density of facial hair/follicles, which makes it generally unsafe to utilise at home laser hair treatment, due to the risk of burning and skin damage.
I would recommend you ring Tria’s customer service support line and ask for their opinion, and/or once again try and get a free consultation with a local laser hair removal clinic that you trust, and see what advice they can give you.
Sorry, I could not be more certain, but the general guideline is that the Tria is fine on thin/fine female facial fuzz, and not on thick/dense male facial hair. I doubt your facial hair is as thick/dense as typical male facial hair but I think it would be better to get as much information as possible before committing to the product.
Good luck.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi Lisa.
Can you help to choose Lase hair removal. I am with dark hair and light skin. I would like to buy a machine wich is work on the all body… I am with sensitive skin and now it’s have been 7 mouth searching for some devices that work great on sensitive skin and in the all body areas.
Thank you so much with best regards Aurora
Hi Aurora,
Thanks for your question on Groom+Style.
As you have dark hair and light skin my initial thoughts would be that the Tria Laser would be the ideal solution for an at home laser hair removal option for you. It also has 5 different strength options – effectively the highest is the most powerful, most effective, but also the zappiest/”painful”. So, in theory, you have pretty good control if you have sensitive skin.
I did, however, want to clarify what you mean by having sensitive skin, do you mean that you are afraid the at home laser hair removal process will hurt or are you afraid of “skin damage” etc.
If you are afraid of the pain there are a few suggestions I can make (take a few paracetamol tablets for the pain, and an anti-histamine for any potential irritation, 1-2 hours before treatment, and maybe even a glass of wine). Note – I am not a doctor so this is not official medical advice, so please consult your doctor if you are going to try this.
If you are afraid of “skin damage” then I would suggest you visit a professional clinic to see what they advise.
Let me know if you have any follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Can laser machine be used by 2 people as in can it be shared between husband and wife?
Hi Mono,
Great question and the answer is yes!
A single laser hair removal device can be shared between 2 or more people, in fact, this is a strategy that lots of students and young people follow to share the cost. For this strategy to work you just ideally have similar skin and hair color – or at least buy a device that will cover a range of skin tones etc. Our testers for the Elos machine were a married couple and they found it very easy to schedule the treatments together in the evening. Most of the devices reviewed also have more than enough “flashes” so that you will not have to worry about running out.
Good luck with the choice.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
is it safe for tattoo area??
Hi Paras,
No, you should not use these IPL or Laser hair removal devices on tattooed areas. Ideally, they should be covered with plaster before any treatment, or avoided altogether.
In the best case the laser/IPL will remove or damage the tattoo (the heat “boils” the ink under the skin) and in the worst case you can burn the skin.
I hope that helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
hi lisa i will buy the machine which suites best on me please suggest me one because i cant decide which should i buy dosnt matter for the price because i spent money on treatment from laser clinic but my hair are still coming and it morand i want the machine which has more flashes and work long lasting.thanks
Hey Maheen,
Thanks for your question.
From our research the 3 options you have available for back hair and darker skin are:
– Philips Lumea BRI956 Prestige IPL Hair Removal for Body, Face, and Bikini
– Silk’n Infinity 400,000 – Suitable for Almost ALL Skin and Hair Colours
– Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System
We have tested the Silk’n Infinity and Tanda me on a range of people with darker skin and dark hair, and the testers have seen a thinning of existing hair and a reduction in hair density.
The choice you make should be based on your budget, and product availability. Also, it is worth understanding the return policy in case the product does not work for your skin tone and hair color – yes, this is still possible so it is best to keep your options open.
What sort of results did you see from the visits to the clinic? It is worth noting that the lasers used in clinics are a lot stronger than at home products – at the same time the benefit of the at home products is that you can treat more often and longer at a reduced cost – so there is a tradeoff there.
Let me know if you have any follow up questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
hi my skin type is between 5 or 4 on fitzpatrick scale .am south asian with medium brown or olive skin tone and i have pcos i want to remove hair from face and body please suggest me which machine will be best and on budget?
Hi Maheen,
Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, the number of budget at home laser hair removal devices is quite limited for those people with darker skin. The 3 options that are effective for those people with darker skin are the models listed below, but these are not budget:
– Philips Lumea BRI956 Prestige IPL Hair Removal for Body, Face, and Bikini
– Silk’n Infinity 400,000 – Suitable for Almost ALL Skin and Hair Colours
– Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System
One option for those people who don’t have a large budget is to share the machine/cost with a friend, or a few friends. The treatment schedule, and the number of flashes available makes this type of arrangement very effective.
Good luck!
Kind Regards,
Lisa
First of all, I want to commend you on the most informative article out there regarding at home facial hair removal laser use. I intend to use the at home laser strictly for facial hair removal, upper lip, cheeks, chin and neck.
I am a 58 year old Caucasian woman with fair skin. My natural hair color is a medium to dark brown. However, my upper lip, chin and neck hairs are a combination of black, but mostly very course white and gray, with a lot of peach fuzz on my cheeks.
The amount of time it takes to show results is not important to me as long as the product works as it says it will, and follow their guidelines.
Is my best choice the 4.2 Silk’n Glide Infinity 400,000, the Tria or possibly a different one? Cost is a factor, however, I am willing to pay for something that will work for me.
When I look for the 4.2 Silk’n Glide Infinity on Amazon or with the link you provided in your answer dated 1/20/18, it is not available, nor does it show a price for it. It is difficult for me to make an informed choice between the Silk’n Glide Infinity or the Tria when I don’t know the price of each.
The pros that I see with the 4.2 Silk’n Glide Infinity, is that it is corded, which eliminates charging the device. But also, that it says it will remove the blonde and gray hairs. The Tria specifically states that that the Hair Removal Laser 4X works with the dark pigment in the hair, lighter hair colors such as white, blond, red, or gray will not absorb enough of the laser’s energy to disable the hair follicle.
Thank you in advance for your comments and opinions. I value and appreciate them and respect your choice of what device you would choose for me.
Hi Valerie,
Thanks for your question, and trust, we appreciate it.
You are right the Silk’n Infinity did seem to be out of stock on Amazon for a while, but it looks like it is available again now.
Based on the details you have provided it would seem that the “problem” is going to be the white and gray hairs – and unfortunately, no product is going to be able to provide guaranteed results. As you have probably read, the laser works by targeting the melanin in the hair, so the grayer/whiter the hair the less likely the chance of success.
As you have identified the Silk’n Infinity and Tanda Me Elos provide the best chance of success with at home laser hair removal for white/gray hairs.
The Silk’n Infinity uses both Galvanic and Optical energy to help disable hair follicles.
The Elos uses Radio Frequency energy and IPL to help disable hair follicles.
Unfortunately, it is impossible for us to say which will work better for you. Both products come with a money back guarantee (please confirm this first with the retailer you buy from to verify) so you could maybe try the machine and see if they work for?
The next option is to go to a clinic for a free consultation and see what treatment plan they suggest -> you can then get their opinion about home laser hair removal as well.
The final option, that we can think of, is electrolysis. Once again you could try this at home or in a clinic. You can read about home electrolysis on our page below. Electrolysis is slow but, if done correctly, permanent.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-shaving/top-4-best-home-electrolysis-machine-reviews/
You could also do a combination of treatments i.e. try the laser first, and then follow up with electrolysis on the more stubborn/grayer hairs.
I hope this information helps a bit, good luck.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Thanks for this worth reading and impressive material! Among the different kinds of hair removal methods, I haven’t tried Electrolysis yet. I am searching for its reviews and information online so I will be fully aware of what is Electrolysis and its procedure is all about. And let me commend you as your post is one of the best sources that I ever found online. You did not only provide us an awesome guide and a well-detailed image, you have also showed us more options with these reliable reviews, well done!
Thanks Joy, glad you enjoyed the research and article.
We also have a similar guide on electrolysis, linked below, if you are interested.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-shaving/top-4-best-home-electrolysis-machine-reviews/
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Great article! What is the best machine for a an Asian, like Indonesian coloured skin? Thanks,keep up the good writings!
Hi Mrs,
Great you found the article helpful. Please check out the color charts for the Tria Laser, Silk’n Infinity and Tanda Me. If you think your skin tone is too dark for the Tria then please focus on the Silk’n Infinity or Tanda Me. Sorry we can not be more specific but there is such a wide range of Indonesian skin tone that it is impossible for us to give a definitive answer without more information.
Good luck with your choice.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Should there be a type of cream used before using a home laser hair removal system and if so which Cream?
Hi Tabitha,
Tria has a soothing gel which is included when you purchase the laser. We didn’t find it took away too much of the discomfort but the gel itself feels nice. See link to the product on Amazon below.
http://geni.us/triasoothinggel
Alternatively, you can try something like Gigi’s spray which numbs quite nicely. See Amazon link below.
http://geni.us/BrazilianWax4
Or, you can just have a nice glass of wine… Enjoy… 🙂
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi,
It seems some devices are not appropriate to use on the genitals. What options should be your best advise for this purpose?
Thanks,
Joao
Hey Joao,
Thanks for contacting us.
Firstly, please start by reading our reply to Anonymous on DECEMBER 13, 2017, which talks about using at home laser/IPL hair removal products on the genitals.
Since this question comes up quite a bit, I went back and re-read all the instructions manuals for the models listed on this page, the Tria Laser, Remington iLight, Philips Lumea, Silk’n Flash & Go and the Tanda Elos. All the instruction manuals state specifically that the products should not be used on the genitals (labia minora, vagina, scrotum), nipples, areolas, anus and inside ears and nose etc.
EXCEPT for the Silk’n Infinity, which says the following in the Warning Section of the manual “Do not treat tattoos or permanent makeup, dark brown or black spots (such as large freckles, birthmarks, moles or warts). Please note: nipples, genitals or lips may be treated, but being naturally darker USE ENERGY LEVEL 1 ONLY!” In the next column, it does say “Treating any area with Silk’n Infinity that is dark in color or has more pigment can result in adverse effects such as burns, blisters and skin color changes.” Further, in the safety tip section, “Cover the darker area with material that will not absorb the light such as a white cloth or white medical tape.”.
In addition to all that information, the Silk’n Infinity does have a built-in skin color sensor which will stop the device from working if the skin tone becomes too dark for safe use.
So where does this leave you? It seems like the Silk’n Infinity is an option if you understand the risks and your genital skin color is within the range allowed by the device – see the image posted on the page above. Applying, some common sense to this, if you are going to proceed with this option, do start slowly with a few test areas, and if you see any adverse effects do stop immediately. The Groom+Style team have not tested the Silk’n Infinity on our genitals and would probably suggest it is safer to go to a clinic for this type of hair removal treatment.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
The Silk’n Infinity was $400 on Amazon in late 2017 and is now almost $800 if it is available at all. Is the eIPL much more effective than IPL alone so that it would be worth waiting for the Silk’n Infinity price to go down? We have moderate skin and hair color and have not had extremely good results with Silk’n Pro or Sensi’ Epil although they are much more effective than not using anything at all. Silk’n/US says that everything they have is comparable in effectiveness to the Infinity which they don’t have available yet. Why?
Hi JR,
Thanks for the comment. You can still find the Silk’n Glide Infinity on Amazon for the cheaper price you mention. Follow this updated link -> http://geni.us/laserhairremoval4b.
Have you also considered the Tria Laser?
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Dear Lisa,
Thank you very much for your recommendation.
It seems that the Silk’N Flash & Go is very popular in Hong Kong. Some stores are selling the model with 400,000 pulses while the amazon US is selling those with 120,000 or 245,000 pulses. For a fairy lady, do you suggest her to buy the one with 245,000 or 300,000 pulses? Will there be enough?
To remove the facial hair, is it safe and effective to use Silk’N Flash & Go?
Thanks a lot!
Ali
Hi Ali,
Yes, the Silk’n products can be used on female facial fuzz (if you imagine a horizontal line just below the nostrils, that is typically where these products can be safely used).
The number of flashes you will need will depend on a lot of factors. But if you only wanted to focus on the upper lip, then I cannot imagine you would need more than 120,000 pulses.
Just running some quick numbers for treating the upper lip. The Silk’n pulse window is about 3cm by 1cm wide, so really the face does not need more than 20 flashes in 1 treatment. The recommended treatment plan is upwards of 12 sessions about 4 weeks apart (the first 4 sessions can be done 2 weeks apart). At a maximum, this is 300 flashes. This gives you an idea of what you will need.
The Silk’n infinity offers their latest eHPL technology which uses a combination of Galvanic Energy and Optical Energy to open the skin pores to ensure more of the light pulses reach the hair follicles. This would be G+S’s suggested model if you are interested in the Silk’n brand, want the most effective model and your budget can extend that far.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi,
For Chinese who has yellow skin and black hair, which model do you recommend?
Silk’n Flash & Go releases one with 400,000 pulses. Do you know if the light and effectiveness of this model does any difference with the model which allows 300,000 pulses only?
Thanks,
Ali
Hi Ali,
I would suggest the Tria Laser 4X if it is in your price range. It will work well on beige to light brown and black hair (yellow) – so will be ideal for Asian and Chinese skin types.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Are these products safe on private areas? Would you have to worry about it causing any type of skin cancer down the road?
Hi,
Thanks for the questions.
It is not advised to use either home laser hair removal (Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X) or IPL products on the anus or genitals (labia majora or scrotum) – the skin in these areas is usually darker and a lot more sensitive and typically has denser hair. According to the manufacturers use of these products on the genitals “may cause serious skin injury”.
If you want to perform laser hair removal on the genitals or anus we would suggest you visit a clinic.
You can, however, use home laser hair removal and IPL products safely on the bikini line or Mons pubis.
There is no medical research showing any link between cancer and the use of laser hair removal or IPL products – of course, the Groom+Style team are not doctors or medical professionals. From what we understand it is high-frequency ionizing radiation like x-rays or gamma rays that can damage/mutate the DNA in the nucleus of cells. The light energy used for laser hair removal is non-ionizing radiation, and there is no research to show that it causes damage to DNA, and in fact, the light energy from these laser hair removal products remains superficially i.e. the laser light does not pass through the body (it does not penetrate further than the hair follicle) so internal organs are not affected.
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I have PCOS and have recently had the Coc pill removed because of my age (38) and I am slightly overweight so now my symptoms are coming back, I have been looking into some home laser therapy and this article has proved very helpful, thankyou very much.
Wendy
Hi Wendy,
Thanks for the feedback, it is great to hear you found the information helpful.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi
Informative article thank you.
I wondered what your thoughts were on the Silk’n Infinity 400,000, compared with the Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System? I have pale skin (I on the Fitzpatrick Scale) and blonde to light brown hair and wondered which was the better solution for permanent hair removal on face & body…or am I overlooking another product that’d be more suitable?
many thanks
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Thanks for your comment on Groom+Style. We would lean towards the latest Elos Machine, the Elos Touch Advance, over the eHPL Silk’n Infinity – but the recommended retail price (depending on which country you are in) can vary quite a bit. So if the Silk’n Infinity is a lot cheaper then we would go for that (unless of course money is not an option…).
Good luck with the choice.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Good artical
Hi, first of all thank you for writing this article and taking time to answer all of our questions. what a wonderful gesture of kindness you are doing us all.
I’d just like to ask a few questions, Im male and 29 years old with white asian skin. i keep cutting myself and getting ingrown hairs when i shave. to avoid those cuts and ingrown hairs i need to purchase those pricey razor blades. i spend around 10 minutes a day with the whole ritual of shaving. i thought id give these IPL products a shot to save time, cuts, ingrowns and the possibility of getting acne on the upper lip and chin area. i already read your reply on Mike’s question, nevertheless i am still going to purchase one of these products. will the hair follicles be permanently destroyed? if ever the treatment does work on me will there still be a visible stubble? i am 29 but i look around 21 and im trying to look as youthful as possible. thank you in advance.
Hi Jaycee,
Thanks for your comment.
I am so sorry, but we cannot recommend something that goes against safety standards laid out by the manufacturers of the IPL and Laser Hair removal products. We would highly recommend you consult a dermatologist and a Laser hair removal specialist to at least understand your options and risks fully. Firstly, the dermatologist might be able to provide some treatment options for the acne and ingrown hairs etc. Then the laser hair specialist (most provide a free consultation) will be able to advise about the safety and chances of success of treating your facial hair.
Another approach might be to try some different shavers. Electric shavers are ideal for those men who suffer from ingrown hairs, and acne. I will post some articles we have written below which might give you some ideas.
The other option is to just trim your facial hair, to stubble length (some trimmers will trim to under a millimetre). This way you are protecting your skin, and looking cool? Some beard/stubble trimmer options are available in the article below.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-shaving/5-best-beard-trimmers-for-men/
Shaving articles for acne and ingrown hairs
http://groomwithstyle.com/best-shaving-tips-for-men-suffering-from-acne/
http://groomwithstyle.com/tips-to-choose-shavers-for-ingrown-hairs/
Electric shaver options
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-shaving/mens-top-5-best-electric-shaver-list/
Hopefully, some of this information helps, please let us know if you have any more questions.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
What a wonderful discussion! Thank you!
I have done ELOS and IPL treatments on my lower legs at professional salons and now I am looking for a cheaper/more convenient alternative to treat my upper legs. The ELOS/IPL professional treatments were quite effective for my medium skin and dark hair and over approx 15 treatments (with longer breaks in between each 5) worked wonders! I must say I didn’t quite follow the rules of “no sun tan 2 weeks before/after”, and at times I was tanned and the treatment still worked, just was a little more painful. However, I’ve had an unpleasant experience once with ELOS (which is colour blind) at a professional salon, where my skin was burned and I had red square marks all over my legs. They then turned brown and eventually disappeared completely, but it wasn’t pleasant at all. I did feel considerably more pain than usual during that treatment though, but because it was my 2nd or 3rd treatment, I thought it could be normal. I also had an experience with IPL salon treatment when they went over my tattoo. It bubbled a little (the heat “boils” the ink under the skin) and when it settled, the affected tattoo area looked a tiny bit lighter. Other than that, I am very happy with the results and I went from being super hairy to a smooth skin that can be shaved once a fortnight. Looking forward to see similar results on my upper legs (even if it may take longer since using a home device).
Thanks for the comment Marsa, it sounds like you have had a full range of experiences. Hopefully, our other readers can learn from them i.e take your time to learn how to use the machine, start small and proceed step by step, and avoid tattooed areas. Good luck treating your upper legs at home, what type/model machine do you think you will go for?
Kind Regards,
Lisa
HI lisa,
Thankyou for your reply and for your suggestion. I already buy Tria Beauty so is it helpul on my skin or not? plz let me know
kindly yours,
Sahin
Hi Sahin,
The Tria Laser will not work if your skin tone is too dark i.e. it has an automatic lock to ensure people do not try and use it when it is potentially unsafe. Assuming you have not taken the Tria out of the package (it is probably best to check with the retailer you bought from to understand the warranty conditions)…
The best guides provided by Tria are the skin tone questionnaire on their website below – the Tria will not work on “medium brown” skin.
http://www.triabeauty.com/questionnaire.htm
Or you can check your skin tone against the Fitzpatrick Scale – the Tria should work from skin tones 1 to 4.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/475763148127606629/
If you are uncertain I would contract Tria directly and see what they suggest. You can find their contact details via their website below.
http://www.triabeauty.com/customer-care-help
I hope this helps you a little bit – good luck.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi dear
I have a long black hairs almost all of my body parts and my skin colour is brown so is it possible to remove all of it? Can you please suggest me which product is best for my skin?
Kindly yours
Hi Sahin,
Thank you very much for taking the time to ask a question. The best options available for brown skin and black hair are the:
– Silk’n Infinity 400,000, which you can read about in section 4.2
– Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System, which you can read about in section 5
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi,
Can these be used on areas of the body that have tattoos?
Thanks!
Hi James,
Good question…and I guess you probably already have a feeling what the answer will be.
Laser hair removal treatment (using an at home or clinic laser hair removal device) will at a minimum remove/scatter/damage the tattoo and at the worst can actually burn the skin. The laser in the laser hair removal devices is typically stronger than the lasers used in tattoo devices. In addition if you went to a professional laser hair removal clinic the specialist would most likely ask if you had any tattoos and would not perform a treatment within a specified area of a tattoo to avoid the risk of injury.
Hope this information helps a bit.
Kind Regards,
Pierce
Hello ,
Thank for a very helpful article ..
Just a quick question , Can the TRIA device be used on the face ?
Hi Lara,
Yes, the Tria Laser 4X can be used on a women’s facial hair…the exact guideline from Tria is…”cheek line downward”. Tria continues to mention that darker, coarser facial hair is likely to see a greater reduction than the lighter, finer hair known as “peach fuzz”.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Great article. It is painful? Which of the devices should cause less pain?
Thanks!
Joan
Hi Joan,
There is some pain, however laser hair removal and IPL treatments are way less painful than waxing (we estimated that laser hair removal is about 90% less painful than waxing), epilation and even a bad cut from a razor. You can read our reply to Gull just above, and read our detailed review of the Tria Laser in the article linked below.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-hair/tria-beauty-laser-hair-removal-4x-review/
The pain level will depend on a lot of factors such as the area of skin you are treating (number of nerve endings etc), your general pain tolerance and the setting of the device you use (see below). For those people with particularly sensitive skin you can use a skin numbing treatment like the one linked below until you get used to the process (or continue to use it). You can also use other techniques to manage the slight discomfort such as breathing, pacing out the treatments or enjoying a nice glass of wine!
http://geni.us/BrazilianWax4
Although your question about which laser device will cause less pain is valid, the real question should be which device will be most effective for my hair removal needs. For example, the Tria device has differing levels of intensity (you start of on the lower intensity and build up), but the lower levels of intensity will be less effective. Also, IPL treatments will be, in general less painful than the Tria laser treatments, but only because the light pulses are not as powerful.
So in summary, our advice is to focus on finding the right device to meet your skin tone and hair colour, budget and lifestyle – and then use some of the techniques described above (or whatever technique works for you) to manage the little zaps…
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, how many flashes does one round of treatment require? (Any relative example would help.)
Also, would a device like Tria have any side effects at all?
Hi Gull,
Groom+Style wrote about our experiences with the Tria laser in the article linked below. It gives details of the expected pulses required per treatment per area etc.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-hair/tria-beauty-laser-hair-removal-4x-review/
The Tria laser is FDA approved, so that should give you some reassurance that if it is used correctly, it is very safe. In effect, if your skin tone is not in the safe range the Tria laser will not “turn on”. Some expected issues might be:
– the mild pain (depending on your pain tolerance and the setting you use) that comes with the light pulse (some people describe it as equivalent to a rubber band snap, and you can use a numbing gel if you find the feeling too unpleasant)
– some temporary redness and swelling after the treatment (you are after all lasering your skin/hair follicles) is possible. It is important to follow all the preparation instructions, start slow and on a low setting, to see how sensitive your skin is and to minimise irritation.
– in some cases (typically where people are maybe a bit to eager to see results quickly and over treat an area) temporary pigment/skin colour changes can occur (either darkening or lightening the skin). Once again, follow the instructions and be patient. Another good tip is to stay out of the sun after a treatment, as this can further encourage the skin to produce more melanin.
– from what we have read (and this goes for any laser hair removal treatment) in some rare cases laser hair treatment can actually have the side effect of extra hair growth. This is called Paradoxical hypertrichosis, you can read more in the study linked below – this affected 3 out of 489 patients.
http://www.hairgrowthnews.com/hirsutism-hypertrichosis/hirsutism-hypertrichosis-laser-induced.shtml
Kind Regards,
Lisa
is the tria safe for the chest down to stomach portion?
Hi Ro,
Yes, the Tria Laser 4x can be used on the male Chest and stomach (assuming your skin tone and hair type falls within the allowable range – see details above).
Kind Regards,
Lisa
If it reaches the maximum pulses, can the tria laser 4x can still be used?
Hi Ro,
The Tria Laser 4x has a finite number of flashes, you cannot buy replacement cartridges for it, once it has used all its pulses it cannot be used again.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi,if i will buy one of those laser equipments mentioned above, is there parts of the equipment that needs to be changed? and if there is, where can i buy it? and also, do i need to shave first before i can use the equipment?
Hi Ro,
Most of the at home laser hair removal products come with a fixed number of “flashes”, like the Tria Laser 4X hair removal system – as mentioned above it has 90,000 pulses which should last for a few years. You can find these details for each of the products we reviewed in the article.
The typical preparation process prior to performing the at home laser hair treatment is to:
– shave the area first with a new razor (this allows the laser to work most effectively on the hair inside the follicle, under the surface of the skin)
– Wipe and then dry the area clean to remove any shaving residue
– perform the treatment protocol as specified in the instructions
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi, almost all of the home lasers products state they are not for use on the male face and neck area. What product if any is effective? I have a real problem with ingrown hairs on my face and neck so am looking to remove as much as possible.
Thank you,
Mike
Hi Mike,
Very good question…We do not know of any at home laser hair removal products that are approved for the male face. If you are serious about treatment we would suggest that you get a professional consultation and see what they advise.
From our investigations of this subject, it would appear that laser hair removal can work on male facial hair. However, the fact that male facial hair is so thick and coarse, and has much deeper roots, means that treatment would require a professional to get the right laser intensity and treatment frequency/protocol. Manufacturers of at home laser hair removal and IPL products cannot run the risk of marketing their products for male facial hair as the risk of a man using the product incorrectly and injuring themselves is just to great i.e. male facial hair treatment would require a higher intensity for the treatment to be effective which in turn increases the risk of side effects.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I use the Remington I light pro with the quartz light. I’ve only had it for about a week so I don’t expect to see any changes as of yet, but one thing concerns me. I can see (and smell) that the hair is getting fried, but when I look at the hair, it seems like the light has only penetrated a couple millimeters down the shaft, and not all the way into the follicle. I’ll shave but leave a little but if hair sticking out just so the laser can “see” it. But the hair only seems to be burnt a couple millimeters down, not into the follicle. I’ll zap it multiple times, but it doesn’t really go any farther. Also, if I do a close shave, so that no hair sticks out at all, I don’t feel the tell-tale burning sensation to know that the laser is reaching the hair. Am I doing something wrong?
Just for context, I am a male to female transsexual. So, my body hair is “male” although, I have seen some changes in both my body hair and skin, so I hoped that would make things easier, but I seem to be having a hard time with this. Any suggestions?
Hi Hope,
Thanks for your question.
I know it can be frustrating, waiting to see results from laser and IPL treatments… this is the most difficult part. However, let me just ask that you be patient and follow the recommended instructions provided by Remington. Treating the required areas safely is much better than rushing, ignoring the safety guidelines and hurting yourself (or in the worst case burning yourself). If it takes you an additional few weeks to get you the results you want, by going slowly and safely, I am sure you can agree that will be worthwhile.
Also, rest assured (even though it would obviously not be the desired outcome) that if the product does not work for your skin tone and hair colour, Remington should stand by their 60 day money back guarantee. If this is the case then you could try an alternative treatment like the Tria Laser, or, although it would be more expensive, get a professional consultation.
Please remember the goal is not to have the burning smell of the hair, but for the laser to penetrate to the darker pigment of the hair shaft. In fact, from what I understand, the light travels through the skin to the hair bulb where the highest concentration of Melanin is – the light does not travel “through” the hair shaft. It is best to shave, as per the instructions. The IPL works below the skin and is still effective when the hairs are not visible.
IPL works in the 500nm to 1200nm wavelength, while the visible spectrum is only 400nm to 700nm (nanometers) – so you will not see most of the active light. In fact if you follow this logic through, in the ideal situation, you will not see ANY light, because if the product is working optimally ALL the light should be absorbed by the hair follicle…and not “reflected” back for you to see.
In addition, as I am sure you have read the IPL and laser only works during the active phase of the hair growth i.e. not during the rest phase. That is why you need to re-treat areas to ensure you treat hair follicles that might have been in the rest phase during the previous treatment.
From what we understand the effectiveness of laser hair removal and IPL is the same for men and women. The main factor will be the effectiveness of the product purchased, and the contrast between skin colour and hair colour – with the optimal conditions being dark hair and light skin.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Will any of these devices work on your ears? It looks like they need to be pressed flat against the skin. Can’t really do that with the ears. Also is there any areas you should avoid?
Hi Tom,
Interesting question. Which part of the ear are you talking about (inner, outer, earlobe)? I don’t see any reason why a device like the Tria Laser 4x (the Tria has the smallest “head”) would not work on ear hair as long as you can place at least some part of the laser head (Tria laser head is just under an inch in diameter) against the skin (you could stretch and flatten the ear). These devices should not be used on the genitals.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
I’v mixed gray hair on my body will the laser hair removal work if I dyed my black?
Thanks
Hi Mark,
Good idea, but dying your hair will not improve the way these laser hair removal devices operate (you are not the first person to think of this idea). Laser hair removal devices target the pigmentation in the hair follicle (specifically at the bulb where the hair grows from). Dying your hair only changes the shaft colour of the hair follicle and does not penetrate to the bulb.
Please check out the Silk’n Infinity 400,000 – this device will work on gray hair (as long as your skin colour is not black skin [Type VI on the Fitzpatrick Scale]) – see section 4.2.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Which, if any, of these systems work on light facial hair? Or is light hair treatment ineffective for all brands?
Hi David,
Thanks for your very timely question. We have actually just updated the article with a new product, the Silk’n Infinity 400,000 – see section 4.2. Silk’n have created a device that can be used on the face and is effective with light hair (as long as your skin colour is lower than VI on the Fitzpatrick scale – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/496170083929483245 ).
Hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
Pierce
Hi Lisa!
Thanks so much for the wonderful review, it has helped me immensely with trying to make my final decision as to which in home laser/ iPL system is right for me. I am so nervous at forking out a bunch of money for little or no results. I have fair skin and a mixture of light brown and blonde hair on my body, which one do you think will work best for me? Thanks so much!
Sunshine,
Britt
Hey Britt,
Unfortunately, based on your hair colour (we cannot see it to judge) there is no guarantee you will get amazing results due to your lighter hair colour. As mentioned laser hair treatment works best when the skin is fair and the hair is darker.
If money was not an option we would suggest the tria laser, as you would work out quicker (it has the fastest results out of all the machines) if you were going to get results. As money might be a big consideration for you then you might want to take the plunge on the Silk’n Compact & Express Models – as they are available at a very reasonable price. Alternatively, as we suggest with some people, ring up your local laser hair clinic and ask if they will see you for an initial consultation for free – and get as much information from them as possible – before continuing your treatment at home if you so desire. Good luck with the choice.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Hi dear ,
Actually I m not very aware of my skin tone .but I think it is between 3 or4 I have skin tone like ginger .. which and dark black hair … which laser machine is suitable for me…thanks for the reply in advance
Hi Meh,
You can use the link below to gauge your skin tone.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/496170083929483245/
Anywhere from 1 to 4 on the Fitzpatrick Scale and you are a candidate for G+S’s top rated laser hair removal product, the Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X. Laser hair removal in general works best with lighter skin (darker skin can absorb too much light and damage the skin) and light brown to black hair (the hair follicles need to be able to absorb as much light as possible for the laser to be effective).
You can read more about the Tria laser in the article above and in the article linked below.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-hair/tria-beauty-laser-hair-removal-4x-review/
Of course if you are unsure about what is best, then please make an appointment with a professional clinic.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
Which on is the best for men?
Hi Alex,
Great question. Women and men should use the same criteria to decide which is the best at home laser hair removal device i.e. skin tone and hair colour.
For example G+S would typically recommend the Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X for men and women if you have light to medium skin tones (darker skin tones can absorb too much of the laser light and damage the skin) and hair colour that is light brown to black in colour (the trim laser works on the dark pigment in the hair which allows the laser energy to be absorbed and used to disable the hair follicle).
If you have darker skin then consider the Tanda Me My Elos Syneron Touch Hair Removal System.
Feel free to read more about the Tria Laser in the in house trial we conducted.
http://groomwithstyle.com/art-of-hair/tria-beauty-laser-hair-removal-4x-review/
Kind Regards,
Pierce
I would like to know which brand is best for using on dark skin 5 on the fitzpatrick scale?
Hi Patti,
Please check out the Elon Me range (number 5 on Groom + Style’s list). Their devices are FDA approved and as mentioned in the reviews use a technology called ELOS which is similar to IPL but “color blind”.
Kind Regards,
Lisa & the G+S team
Hello, I read your new stuff regularly. Your writing style is wіtty, keep it up!
You have made some decent points there. I checked on the net for more info about the issue and found most people will go along with your
views on this site.
Thank you for the effort, keep up the good work Great work.
The number 4 brand already has a newer model which never needs replacement of any parts. It’s way better than the older version here described.
Thanks for keeping us on our toes Fer. The article has been updated.
Kind Regards,
Lisa
What about blonde or light hair removal?? Is there anything that works?
Susan
Tria works very well on blonde and light skin types. I have light brownish shade and havent had a problem with it!
-Lisa
Nicely and precisely written for the Permanent Hair Removal Solution. Hope this will help a lot of women to get rid of their unwanted hairs.