Best IPL hair removal devices: top 5 at-home hair removal machines

If you’re tired of dealing with unwanted body and leg hair, you’re probably intrigued by the idea of little at-home devices that promise to get rid of your hair from the comfort of your own bathroom. Are they too good to be true? One of the most advanced and high-tech methods is IPL (which stands for “intense pulsed light”) and these handheld machines claim to permanently reduce fuzz by stunting the hair cycle and preventing regrowth.

The devices themselves aren’t cheap – with the most affordable one our list still carrying a price tag over £200 – but buying one should mean you don’t have to make regular trips to the salon anymore, saving you a fortune in the long run. We put a range of devices to the test to find out how well they work.

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What is an IPL device?

IPL is a broad-spectrum light that’s scattered across the skin to help with permanent hair reduction. It directs light at the melanin (the pigment that gives the skin/hair its colour) in the hair follicle, damaging the root and helping to break the cycle of regrowth. Don’t expect instant results, but with regular use, it can help prevent unwanted hair from reaching the skin surface. Energy, frequency, skin and hair colour are all determining factors in the efficacy of the treatment.

Most IPL devices are suitable for the body and face. They work by gliding or stamping the device over skin, emitting light as they go. Gliding is convenient for larger surface areas of the body (such as your legs). Stamping (pressing onto the area) is better for smaller areas where you need to be more precise.

IPL devices can be costly, often setting you back at least £200 and sometimes as much as £500, but if you’re always making trips to the salon and are after a more permanent solution, then IPL might be a more cost-effective method.

What’s the difference between IPL and laser hair removal?

Don’t confuse IPL with laser hair removal. Laser treatments use a different light source and target a more concentrated area. The laser method is often more powerful. You can use IPL devices at home, but if you want laser hair removal you’ll need to have it performed by a trained professional.

Is IPL hair removal safe?

IPL is considered safe to use, providing the device is from a reliable, trusted brand and instructions are followed as advised. Occasionally, some people may experience side effects such as redness, discomfort, and very rarely blisters or burns. If any irritation occurs, please consult a medical professional.

How to use IPL devices

For IPL to work effectively, some hair is required to allow the light to target it, therefore it’s best not to wax or epilate ahead of your session. Shaving beforehand is advised as the light can target hair directly in the follicle. If IPL is used on longer hair, it runs the risk of burning the skin. Some models are suitable for use in different areas, such as the upper lip (all the devices in this guide can be used on both body and facial hair).

For best results, regular IPL sessions are required. Each brand advises how often to use their IPL device, and when you can expect to see results. Typically, most brands suggest a 12-week programme followed by top-up sessions as and when needed.

Does IPL hair removal hurt?

The level of discomfort varies from person to person, however, the sensation can feel quite tingly and hot (it’s sometimes likened to being flicked with a hot elastic band). The process is quite quick, though, so the pain doesn’t last long. Most devices have a range of heat settings to make it more comfortable, especially in areas that are more sensitive. It’s important to remember that a lower intensity is also less effective, so keeping it at this setting would require you to use IPL for longer.

Who can use an IPL device?

IPL devices aren’t suitable for everyone, as they’re only able to identify and target hair pigment that is a contrasting shade to the skin.

Naturally, light blonde, red, white and grey hairs contain little pigment, so IPL typically isn’t effective on people with these hair shades, whatever their skin colour. They also don’t work on dark skin tones. Typically, those with pale to medium skin and dark hair are the best candidates for IPL.

IPL devices typically aren’t suitable for pregnant women, those with certain skin/hair conditions and those undergoing particular treatments. They also don’t work on tattoos or permanent make-up – check the fine print before you buy.

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How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?

Typically, IPL devices should be used regularly for four to 12 weeks, to make sure all visible hair has been treated. Hair should start to appear finer and grow back slower, or not at all. Top-up sessions can be done where there is any regrowth. Results vary depending on the use of the device and skin/hair types.

What to consider when buying an IPL device

The number of flashes: This is the number of times the device can emit a flash. Most have a minimum of 100,000 and once the lamp runs out of flashes, a replacement lamp will be needed. You can’t get replacement lamps for all devices, while some offer unlimited flashes.

The number of treatment heads: If you plan to use the device on smaller areas, a head that comes with a smaller treatment window is more efficient.

The level of intensities: This impacts how often you’ll need to use the device and whether you can adapt the intensity to suit more sensitive areas.

The number of modes: Most devices offer glide and stamp modes, with some also offering a “gentle” mode.

Speed: The shorter the time between flashes, the quicker the treatment process.

Automatic skin tone sensor: Some devices detect the optimum intensity and safe settings for your skin tone.

Corded or cordless: Some devices can be used cordless, for ease of use and transportation.

Which is the best IPL hair removal machine?

Best IPL hair removal device: Philips Lumea Prestige IPL BRI954/00
Runner-up IPL hair removal device: SmoothSkin Muse
Best compact IPL hair removal device: Silk’n Infinity 400,000

How we test IPL devices

The Good Housekeeping Institute recruited over 80 women across the UK to help us test out a range of IPL devices in their own homes. The length of the test was 12 weeks, so we could see if our testers experienced the results they were hoping for. The testers followed the recommended instructions, found out how effective the devices were at removing hair on the legs, bikini line, underarms and upper lip, when any regrowth appeared, how easy the devices were to control, how simple the process was, and how comfortable it felt when removing their hair.