Numerous at-home devices claim to use the same laser technology employed by dermatologists, yet few work as promised.
Laser devices differ from waxing in that they damage dark pigment in your follicle to reduce future hair growth, helping you make a decision easier. We consulted two experts and several Brides readers when making ours decision.
Safety
At-home laser hair removal devices use light-based technologies to target unwanted hair follicles. While their power may not match those used in medical clinics, they can still be effective if used carefully and following manufacturer instructions carefully. In order to avoid burns, scarring, and hyperpigmentation issues from laser devices used at home it’s wise to conduct a patch test prior to beginning any treatments with them.
Whatever laser or IPL hair removal tool you choose, it is wise to consult a dermatologist first before beginning treatment. They can determine whether laser or IPL treatments will suit you as well as provide advice about aftercare for the procedure. In addition, alcohol and smoking should be avoided on both days before your procedure as this could lessen its effectiveness.
At-home laser hair removal devices can be tailored specifically to people with specific skin and hair colors and types, so it is essential that you select one that will meet your needs. Some devices may not work for those with dark hair because they require a strong contrast between skin pigment and hair pigment; also some at-home tools may not function when used on tanned skin as this reduces contrast between pigmented areas of skin and hair pigment.
Home use devices do not compare with professional lasers when it comes to power or capabilities, as they can only target smaller areas of skin. Furthermore, their light-based technology may cause some discomfort; however most manufacturers provide adjustable intensity settings so you can find your perfect level of intensity. Furthermore, you should be mindful of possible risks involved with using these tools such as running them over moles or tattoos or around eyes or genital areas.
Though laser and IPL hair removal tools have some drawbacks, they’re safer than traditional shaving or waxing and may save money long term. Although not permanent solutions, laser and IPL tools may cause temporary redness and swelling which is more mild.
Effectiveness
Laser hair removal can be highly effective when employed properly. Professional tools found in clinics use pulses of light to disintegrate the follicle, producing permanent or semi-permanent results in most areas of the body. At-home devices designed for home use tend to be less powerful but more targeted; making them suitable for smaller areas like bikini lines or underarms.
At-home laser hair removal devices have been designed with features to make the process simpler and more effective, including adjustable settings that cater to various skin types and body areas. Some devices even come equipped with cooling features to soothe sensitive areas after treatment – particularly after multiple sessions are needed depending on skin sensitivity levels. Some even come equipped with apps that remind users when it’s time for another session!
Though at-home laser hair removal devices may not have the same strength as those used by dermatologists in clinics, research and studies show they can still be extremely effective for most people. Remember though that laser hair removal may take multiple sessions before you see any noticeable results!
If you are searching for an at-home laser hair removal device suitable for more delicate body areas such as underarms and chin, such as Tria Beauty Laser Hair Removal System could be worth looking into. Since its introduction into skincare scene there has been plenty of evidence supporting its claims; clinical tests and approval from numerous skin types show a reduction in unwanted hair after seven to nine sessions of use.
Remember to shave before each treatment as lasers target pigment in hair follicles to destroy them; therefore, the hairs must exist for this device to work effectively. If you pluck or wax before each visit, its light won’t reach all follicles effectively and you may need more sessions from it than expected.
Side Effects
At-home devices differ significantly from professional laser treatments in that they typically utilize one setting that can be altered according to each person’s specific needs, while professional treatments have multiple settings and settings tailored specifically for them. As a result, anyone can use at-home devices aimed at hair removal on any area of their body; while this makes them convenient, this also increases the chance for side effects such as irritation or burns.
At-home devices usually include safety features to safeguard against this problem; nonetheless, it is still vital to read and follow all instructions closely as failure to do so can lead to skin damage. Furthermore, any products such as self-tanners or tanning beds could potentially interfere with treatment, potentially increasing its risks.
Both laser-hair-removal and IPL (intense pulsed light) devices operate by emitting pulses of light that target melanin, the pigment responsible for making your hair dark. While lasers tend to be more precise and penetrate deeper into your skin than IPL devices, the latter emit a wider spectrum of light which could potentially cause redness or scarring reactions.
Laser hair-removal devices often cause mild burning or stinging sensations, but these typically resolve within a few hours without being harmful. You can reduce any discomfort by applying a cool compress and, if needed, 1 percent hydrocortisone cream.
Hyperpigmentation is another potential side effect of at-home laser hair removal, and should you notice any sign of hyperpigmentation it is important to contact a dermatologist immediately. If any signs appear then consultation should take place as soon as possible.
Note that at-home laser hair removal can be more time consuming and expensive than other traditional methods like waxing or shaving, due to less powerful devices used at home compared to those in clinics. Furthermore, its results will only last temporarily so regular treatments will need to be continued in order to maintain them.
Cost
Laser and IPL hair removal methods offer more permanent solutions than waxing or shaving; lasers and IPLs work by damaging hair follicles enough to reduce future growth, taking less maintenance while providing lasting results. At-home devices may not provide as powerful results compared to professional machines found in clinics.
At-home laser hair removal devices may be labeled “lasers,” but many don’t actually produce an actual laser beam. Instead, most use intensive pulsed light (IPL). IPL devices send flashes of light that target melanin in your skin and hair follicles – though less effective than true lasers they won’t cause permanent damage to the skin or cause any permanent scarring.
Keep in mind that laser and IPL treatments tend to work best when there is a clear contrast between your skin tone and hair color; thus they may not be as successful with darker skin tones.
Tattoos should also be avoided when considering laser hair removal as they can interfere with contrast between skin and hair and lead to unexpected zapping or burns from an at-home laser hair removal device.
Most at-home laser hair removal devices are optimized for targeting smaller areas like legs and arms, such as with their stamp mode that targets one spot at once or their glide mode that spans larger surfaces to treat multiple spots simultaneously. While both of these features provide quick and efficient solutions for treating smaller spots quickly and effectively, they’re not suitable for treating larger ones such as backside or neck hair removal.
Some at-home laser hair removal devices also incorporate cooling technology, making the experience more bearable for those with sensitive skin. Some devices also have adjustable intensity settings so you can tailor them according to your pain threshold and features that cater specifically for specific hair colors or skin tones such as blonde, gray or red hues.
