Experts recommend these 8 IPL hair removal devices to get silky-smooth skin at home

How to choose the best IPL hair removal devices

✔️ Check it out FDA Clearance: : “You should only look for FDA-cleared devices because they have been evaluated and cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, where they have been tested and proven for safety and effectiveness,” advises Dr. Song. However, please remember: “FDA approval means that the FDA has found the device safe to use, but it does not say whether you are a good candidate for using the device, so it is important to be informed about the risks and whether what to do and what not to do. “t,” advises Dr. Shirazi.

✔️ Consider the number of flashes: IPL machines work by producing flashes or rapid pulses of light to treat an area of ​​skin. Some devices have a limited number of flashes, such as 300,000 or 1 million, while others have an unlimited number of flashes, notes Dr. Shirazi. “More flashes mean the device lasts longer and allows for more treatment sessions,” explains Dr. Song.

✔️Choose devices with automatic light intensity settings: It is important to use your IPL hair removal device at the appropriate intensity level for your skin tone. While with some devices you’ll have to manually determine what level is best for you, “a few (devices) come with a smart sensor and automatically adjust to send out the right amount of light and intensity for your specific skin tone and hair color,” he says Gunn.

✔️ Look for ssecurity features: “Useful safety features include integrated cooling systems to keep the skin cool, as well as a larger header to allow for a larger treatment size,” says Dr. Song. “You should also wear safety glasses.” Gunn also recommends especially looking for devices with skin tone sensors, adjustable intensity settings, and tip cooling mechanisms.

Does IPL really remove hair permanently?

“It should be called laser hair removal rather than permanent hair removal because the treatments significantly slow hair growth but usually do not permanently remove hair,” says Dr. Shirazi. “For permanent hair removal, several sessions in a professional setting are required.”

However, even professional lasers do not result in complete and permanent removal, notes Gunn. However, if you are looking for a way to reduce hair growth at home, using an IPL hair removal device is a good option. “Your results at home will not be as spectacular as with a professional laser, but you will see Some reduction with each treatment,” says Gunn.

Is IPL hair removal safe?

“IPL devices can be safe when used properly on the right skin type, depending on the device technology,” says Dr. Shirazi. “Look for an FDA-approved device with an appropriate cooling mechanism to reduce the risk of burns.”

One thing to keep in mind: IPL devices are “safer in patients with fair to medium skin tones and most effective in patients with dark, thick hair,” Dr. Shirazi says. It is not recommended for patients with sensitive skin, darker skin types or lighter hair as it may cause skin irritation and damage without effectively reducing hair. “If you have melanin-rich skin or a darker complexion, it is best to avoid the test area or test a larger area of ​​skin first before treating.”

Once you’ve decided that IPL hair removal is right for you, the key is to choose the right device and setting for a safe hair removal process, says Gunn. “Follow carefully the instructions for use of the device you are using. Always shave the area before using the device to avoid burning the hair on the surface,” he advises. “As a rule, you should avoid flashing the same area multiple times to avoid burns. And never use IPL (or any other hair removal treatment) on damaged or irritated skin, tattoos, infections or burns.

What are the side effects of IPL hair removal?

Using an IPL hair removal device may potentially have side effects such as skin irritation. “During the treatment, a rubber band may feel like it is breaking, which may cause side effects such as skin irritation, which may result in temporary redness and swelling,” explains Dr. Song. “More permanent adverse effects on the skin include changes in pigmentation and blistering or crusting if the skin has been damaged.”

How we chose the best IPL hair removal devices

We consulted with Teresa Song, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical; Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD; and Kristin Gunn, celebrity esthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa. We also searched through countless ratings, reviews, and product specifications to narrow down the list of the best IPL hair removal devices. Finally, we referenced the Good Housekeeping Institute’s list of the best night creams to choose Smooth Pure Fit, Nood The Flasher 2.0, and Braun Silk Expert Pro5.

Why it’s worth trusting us

For over 70 years, Prevention is a leading provider of trusted health information, providing readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help us choose health-focused products. Prevention also analyzes hundreds of reviews and often conducts personal testing by our staff to help you make informed decisions.

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