The best IPL hair removal devices to use at home (2024)

We're pleased to report that, yes, they do work. How? Well, IPL stands for “intense pulse light”, which directs light at your skin’s natural melanin (the pigment that gives it colour) within the hair follicle. This causes hair to go into sleep mode, causing it to fall out and grow less frequently over time.

Each IPL machine will come with its own form of treatment plan, but the general rule is to wait between four to 12 weeks to see real results. After that, hair should grow back thinner or not at all. However, consistency is key, so to reap the long-term benefits, make sure you do a top-up session every once in a while.

Of course, IPL hair removal devices do have their limitations. Because they target hair pigment that contrasts in colour to the skin, they won’t work on very fair, red, white or grey hair, as they can’t detect enough of a difference in colour. Likewise, those with darker skin tones may also struggle for this reason.

Not sure where to start on your IPL journey? May we suggest Philips’ clever gadget that comes with five intensity settings and a sensor that automatically selects which level will best suit your skin tone.
You can even download the brand’s app, which will create a tailored treatment schedule for each area of your body, as well as give you some handy tips on how to get the best results from the device.

It might look like an old-school video camera, but this innovative device is taking tech one step further. It combines IPL with an anti-aging light treatment that aims to boost collagen levels, leaving skin rejuvenated. This IPL leaves skin hair-free and silky in as little as six weeks and even has an ICE setting, which cools skins down after treatment.

This IPL machine provides you with 22 years’ worth of hair-removal treatments in its lifetime. It has an impressive 10 intensity levels (so you can find the perfect match – even if you have sensitive skin) and the interchangeable heads cover all areas of the body.

Philips is a brand at the forefront of IPL technology, and this snazzy machine is the brand’s latest release. It features the same “SmartSkin” tech we know and love from previous models but delivers faster results — slowing down general regrowth by as little as three weeks.

Most IPL devices require you to click a button every time you want to emit a flash, but not this one. It has both pulse and glide modes, but the latter is a game-changer as it automatically flashes as you roll it over skin – requiring zero effort on your part.

This simple-to-use device features just three intensity levels (power, speed and comfort modes), while the in-built skin sensor automatically adjusts the settings based on your skin tone. What’s more, you can use this handy tool on both your face and body.

With its compact design and handy case, this IPL from Braun was literally made to travel with you. We love that this hair removal tool is super gentle on the skin – thanks to a clever skin sensor that adapts the intensity of flashes to best suit your skin tone. A suitcase essential for summer holidays, for sure.

While we always encourage a good pamper session, we appreciate having the time for self-care is a rare occurrence. Looking to speed up your hair removal routine? Check out Foreo’s nifty IPL. With a dual-lamp design and ultra-fast flashes, this tool allows you to treat large areas of your body quickly.