At-Home Laser Hair Removal: The Ultimate Guide to Smooth Skin

Just as we were getting acquainted with the basics of laser hair removal technology, the beauty market introduced new ways to eliminate unwanted hair. This time, smart gadgets have come to the rescue in the quest for smooth skin, potentially challenging the expensive services offered by salons. Portable laser hair removal devices are gaining popularity due to their convenience and ability to be used at home. But can they truly replace professional salon treatments, and what are the unique features of these devices?

Less is More?

Manufacturers and advertisements for at-home laser hair removal devices promise permanent hair removal (with proper use) for all hair types. These devices, both in shape and size, closely resemble electro-epilators, which were once very popular but only provided hair-free skin for up to a week before the hair grew back. The advantage of laser technology, whether used in a salon or at home, is that it offers a more long-term effect and significantly reduces hair growth intensity, potentially leading to complete hair removal.

Laser pulses heat the hair from the tip to the follicle, destroying it. However, claims about permanent hair removal are debatable since many hairs are in a dormant phase and may still grow back even after a long course of laser hair removal. Nevertheless, the regrown hairs are usually fewer and thinner than before.

For visible results, a course of 6-10 procedures with intervals of 1-1.5 months is typically required. Usually, after six months to a year following the course, a few repeat procedures are needed to remove any dormant hairs that have grown back.

The main difference between at-home devices and professional salon versions is their lower power and the need to perform all hair removal manipulations yourself. This means carefully treating each area of skin by smoothly moving the device. Truth be told, not all women have the patience to spend time treating their entire body, but this is the essence of using most at-home health and beauty gadgets.

The advantage of at-home devices is that they are more cost-effective than salon procedures, requiring only periodic replacement of lamps programmed for a certain number of light pulses. Most home laser devices come with a specific number of flashes: the more flashes, the longer the lamp can be used. Those planning to remove hair from their underarms, bikini area, and legs should opt for models with at least 100,000 flashes. But how do you use this technological marvel?

A Brief Manual

Before purchasing a portable laser or photo epilator, carefully study the manufacturer’s website or instructions to determine which hair types can be removed with the device. While laser epilators can handle almost any hair type and skin color, photo epilators are generally not suitable for red-haired or dark-skinned individuals. Both technologies require avoiding sun exposure a few days before and after the procedure.

The epilator should come with protective goggles and an instruction manual detailing the appropriate mode and power settings based on your skin and hair color. The manual will also list contraindications for using the epilator, such as skin diseases, pregnancy, and certain medications. Be especially cautious around moles; it’s best to avoid these areas as the high power of the device could cause unwanted skin cell mutations.

How to Perform the Procedure

If you’ve ever used an electro-epilator, you’ll quickly master the laser version. Some models include an electric shaver: one side of the device has a lamp, and the other has a roller with tweezers. This means you first remove the hair with the electric side of the device and then use the lamp to enhance the effect. In other cases, all hair from the treatment area should be removed with a razor before laser or photo epilation.

Most epilators should be used on clean, dry skin without creams or oils. If a special gel is required for the procedure, it will be mentioned in the instructions.

After plugging in the device and setting the desired mode, press it against the skin and smoothly move it over the treatment area. Note that some models require a step-by-step approach, holding the device on each section of the treatment area for several seconds. You may feel a slight tingling and a characteristic smell of burnt hair since we are essentially burning the hair. If the burning sensation is strong, you may need to choose a gentler mode. The entire process will take about 15-20 minutes. You can also remove unwanted facial hair by selecting a special mode.

The Result

Don’t be disappointed if you don’t see any results after the first 1-2 procedures; the first noticeable results will appear after 4-5 sessions. Unlike salon treatments, at-home epilators require more frequent use. It is recommended to perform the first six procedures every two weeks and then repeat the treatment as needed when hair regrows. The effectiveness of any type of epilation depends on many factors: each person has a unique hair color and density, different ages, metabolism, and hormone levels, so the results of epilation are very individual.

For more information on laser hair removal, you can visit FDA.