At-home permanent hair removers: What to know and what to shop

Permanent hair removal is no longer exclusive to the dermatologist's office.

With advancements in technology, there are now numerous at-home devices that offer effective and long-lasting results.

We talked to Dr. Sonya Kenkare, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at the Illinois Dermatology Institute, to understand if these devices are truly effective.

"For safety reasons, at home devices will never be as strong as the devices that patients can access under the supervision of a licensed medical professional," Kenkare said. "This is important to keep in mind because stronger devices are more likely to yield better results with fewer treatments. The advantage of an at home devices that you can give yourself as many treatments as you like, usually without additional cost."

Kenkare also noted that these devices may "be less suitable for patients with darker skin as this increases the likelihood of a device causing a burn." At-home devices tend to work the best for patients who have darker hair and lighter skin, she said, since the technology works based off the contrast in the color of the skin and hair.

Whether you're tired of constant shaving, waxing or plucking, investing in an at-home permanent hair remover can save you time and money in the long run.

When choosing an at-home hair remover, consider the following factors to ensure you select the best device for your needs:

• Technology: Different devices use varying technologies such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), laser or electrolysis. Research which method works best for your hair and skin type.
• Skin tone and hair color compatibility: Not all devices work on all skin tones and hair colors. Check the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the device is suitable for your specific needs.
• Safety features: Look for devices with built-in safety features like skin tone sensors, cooling mechanism and safety goggles to protect your eyes.
• Ease of use: Consider the design and ergonomics of the device. A comfortable and easy-to-handle device will make the process much smoother.
• Treatment time and coverage area: Devices vary in the size of the treatment area and the time it takes to see results. Larger treatment windows can speed up the process for larger areas like legs.
• Cost and longevity: Compare the cost of the device with its expected lifespan and the cost of replacement parts, if any.

Using at-home hair removal devices effectively requires a bit of preparation and consistency. Be sure to always read the instructions thoroughly before beginning any hair removal regimen at home.

Keep readying to see our picks for the best at-home hair removal devices.

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