![The Best Home Laser Hair Removal Devices for Guys, Tested by Editors (1) The Best Home Laser Hair Removal Devices for Guys, Tested by Editors (1)](https://i0.wp.com/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/mh-5-28-hair-removal-6656329d6707a.jpg?crop=0.502xw:1.00xh;0.498xw,0&resize=640:*)
Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?
ANY MAN WHO has ever manscaped before knows that there is a certain level of annoyance that comes with it. There are the products (the shaving cream, the razors, the trimmers), there’s the careful technique to minimize cutting and nicking (not to mention the flexibility involved), the time it takes (so much) and, of course, the cleanup. It can be enough to drive even the most patient guy a little crazy. Is it any wonder, then, that laser hair removal is so popular?
"Laser hair removal (or more correctly, laser hair reduction) works by damaging the hair follicle, thus preventing further hair growth," says Dr. Jaimie DeRosa of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. Basically, laser hair removal/reduction is the set-it-and-forget-it of manscaping, which is a very attractive idea, but does come with some catches. Typically in-office laser hair removal requires multiple sessions over the course of years (!) and can cost into the thousands of dollars. Or, you could go with a home laser hair removal device.
Best Home Laser Hair Removal for Men
Best Overall Home Laser Hair Removal for Men
Braun IPL Laser Hair Removal Device
Read more
Best For Travel
Nood The Flasher 2.0
Read more
Best Customizable Device
BoSidin IPL Laser Permanent Cooling-Care Hair Removal Device
Read more
Best Device With Cooling Sensation
Ulike IPL Permanent Hair Removal Device
Read more
Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for the Face
Silk'N Flash & Go Express Hair Removal Device
Read more
Best For Dark Skin Tones
Iluminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction System
Read more
Smallest At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Smoothskin Bare Plus Ultrafast IPL Laser Permanent Hair Removal
Read more
Best For Blonde or Red Hair
Me Smooth Permanent Hair Reduction Device
Read more
Best Customizable Device
SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal System
Read more
Home laser hair removal devices for men are not as effective as the machines you can find at a laser clinic, but these devices can still give you significant hair reduction when used correctly and consistently. "Since the at-home laser hair removal devices are less powerful, it will take longer to see results but is still a great option for those who don’t want to go to an office for laser hair removal and also for those who want to maintain their results after a round of in-office laser hair removal," said Dr. DeRosa.
A word of caution before you pick up a device though: the way laser hair removal works is by targeting the pigment of the hair follicle, which is why it does not work on white or gray hair and is really best for people with darker hair and lighter skin. Those with light hair and skin may not see results, either, and those with dark skin may see skin lightening when using certain technologies (this also means you can’t use it over tattoos). If you have dark skin, it’s best to seek the advice of a professional before attempting laser hair removal and, if you get an at home device, make sure it’s specifically designed (and tested) for darker skin tones.
What to Consider
Before you decided which at home laser hair removal device is best for you, consider these factors.
Type
Most at home laser hair removal devices use a technology called Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). The flashes of light target the pigment inside the hair follicle and heats it to stunt regrowth. Over time, this effectively “kills” the follicle so the hair doesn’t regrow. It’s not actually a laser, but it works in a similar way to the actual lasers found in doctor’s offices. You may find other technologies paired with IPL, like radiofrequency, which can help increase the effectiveness of IPl, but generally, you won’t find any real lasers for at-home use.
Flashes
Consider this the battery life of the device. The flashes are often preloaded into the device so once you run out, you’ll have to purchase a new one. The good news is that most devices include a staggeringly high amount of flashes, so you probably don’t need to worry about running out until years down the road. If you’re worried about that, though, look for a device that contains unlimited flashes.
Size
What areas of your body you’re trying to remove hair from should inform what size device you go for. Larger areas, like your back, chest or legs, will require a device with a larger surface area, which detail work, like around your groin or armpits, requires a smaller surface. Some brands tackle this by including multiple attachments with varying sizes of windows, which allow light to pass through in larger or smaller areas. If you’re using the device on multiple surfaces of the body, it’s a good idea to look for one with interchangeable attachments.
Power Source
Generally, you’ll find two power sources: corded and cordless. Unlike with things like hair clippers, corded versions of at home laser hair removal devices aren’t generally more powerful, but you can use them for longer periods in on go. On the flip side, a cordless option offers more flexibility on where you can use it since you don’t have to be near an outlet to power it up. Plus, it can make twisting and turning your body around the cord unnecessary.
Modes
Some devices you see out there include different modes, which temper the intensity of the light to make for a more comfortable experience, particularly if you have sensitive skin. IPL is a little painful no matter how you slice it, but some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. In this case, the highest settings are not always the best settings, do you catch our drift? If you have sensitive skin or are worried about pain, consider a device with multiple modes to allow you to customize the experience.
FDA-Cleared
In most cases, all laser hair removal devices will work the same way, but some models are cleared by the FDA, meaning that the administration has looked at the technology and data the device offers, and the required studies using the device, and deemed it not only safe for at-home use, but that it actually delivers on what it claims to do. When in doubt about a device, if it has an FDA clearance, you know the claims are legit.
How We Selected
For the past two years, we tested every major laser hair removal devices on the market, and consulted with Men's Health's Grooming editors and writers on the top home laser hair removal devices for men. Experts including our Grooming Editor, Garrett Munce, evaluated their effectiveness, cost, and pain level of every treatment. Read on for our favorite devices.
Pros
SkinPro 2.0 technology adapts intensity to skin tone
Suitable for sensitive skin
Can be used on the face and body
Cons
Gets very hot and and decreases the rate of flashing when you're doing continuous flashes in a large area
This device is everything you want it to be: It's fast, effective, and easy to use, which is why it's our number one overall pick. The IPL technology features a sensor sensor that tailors the flash intensity based on your skin tone, which makes it suitable for most skin tones. The FDA-approved device boasts a whopping 10 power settings, allowing you to adapt your treatment to your specific skin tone and pain threshold.
Testing Notes: Considering the steep price tag, we expected some serious results from this at-home laser, and it definitely delivered. After the second use, we noticed that hair growth had definitely slowed and the hair wasn't growing back as quickly. By the third and fourth treatment, we were pleasantly surprised to find that what little hair had grown back was growing in patchy, which indicates that some hair follicles are completely dormant and dead. It may take a few months, but we're confident that this device permanently removes any unwanted hair.
Read more: Best Body Groomers for Men
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 400,000 |
Size | Medium with 2 attachments |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Best For Travel
Nood The Flasher 2.0
Now 37% Off
Pros
Results in 8 weeks or less
Fully digital display
Cons
Small head makes treating larger areas a pain
Want to look better naked? Nood's The Flasher can help. It works everywhere that hair grows, including your groin, back, legs, and face. It takes eight weeks of consistent use to see results, but once you do, you'll be encouraged to keep using it until the hair stops growing completely.
Testing Notes: Some at-home laser devices are less painful than others, and we found that this one has a very noticeable sting. If you move quickly from one area to another, it makes it easier to tolerate, and you finish faster, too. While some people may see this as a negative, we think it's actually a good thing, since it indicates that it's actually working to get rid of the hair. We found that the skin is extra sensitive immediately after use, so make sure to stay indoors and use gentle, non-scented lotion to soothe any redness.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 600,000 |
Size | Small |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 sensitive skin modes, 1 continuous glide mode |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Pros
180-degree rotating head
Six modes and gears can meet the needs of different body parts
Cons
Can be clunky to use
There's always going to be an element of discomfort when it comes to these at-home hair removal devices, but this device in particular tries to make the experience as pain-free as possible thanks to its ice-cooling panel. The precision head can rotate 180 degrees in both directions, making those difficult-to-reach places more accessible.
Testing Notes: The precision head is a game-changer and makes it so much easier to maneuver, but it's also very clunky. We found that it's also quite picky and if it’s not flat with your skin, it won’t flash and you will have to keep readjusting it until it flashes. We love the ice-cooling panel, which immediately lessens the stinging sensation and actually makes us want to keep using it.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 350,000 |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 6, based on treatment area |
FDA Cleared? | No |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Results in as little as four weeks
Painless and safe treatments
Cons
Long delay in between flashes
This next generation IPL hair removal device is the first at-home tool to feature ice-cooling hair removal technology to reduce heat output and cool the skin on contact, protecting it from injuries. With traditional hair removal devices, the temperature of light can reach 158℉-212℉. Ulike’s Sapphire Ice-cooling technology cools the skin to 50℉-104℉, effectively avoiding burning and heat injuries. This type of technology is widely used in large salons for a comfortable, painless experience. It banishes hair at the root using multi-spectrum lights converting light energy to heat energy, permanently reducing hair regrowth over time.
Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare, recommends using Ulike's IPL Device for in-between office laser hair removal appointments. "It has a large sapphire crystal hand piece with contact cooling to prevent burns as the laser energy passes from the device through the skin to selectively heat the hair root without injuring the skin," she says. "It's a powerful device. I recommend using it 2-3 times weekly for 4 weeks. Then monthly for maintenance thereafter.
Testing Notes: We didn't expect to love this one, but the cooling technology vastly improves the entire laser hair removal experience. It's virtually painless, which makes treating larger areas easier because you don't have to take a break to recover from the stings. We love that this device isn't as clunky and difficult to maneuver as other devices, which can be awkward to hold. Like any other at-home laser hair removal device, consistency is key, but this device makes it easy to put in the time and effort.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 350,000 |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 1 mode, multiple intensity levels |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Pros
Noticeable results after four treatments
Great for small areas
Cons
Takes a long time to treat large areas
We love this adjustable device from Silk'N because of its small, portable size and powerful technology. It uses a quartz bulb and pulsed light technology to target the hair follicle, eliminating pigment in the hair shaft without damaging the delicate skin around it. It fits in the palm of your hand so you can take it with you on your next beach vacation for smooth skin all summer long.
Testing Notes: The small size of this device is the best and worst thing about it. On one hand, it's great to travel with because it doesn't take up much space. On the other hand, it's so small that it makes treating large areas like your legs and back almost impossible because it takes so long. We would recommend using this device if you want to treat just a few small areas. If you're trying to get rid of body hair from head to toe, you're better off with something that covers a wider surface area.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 300,000 |
Size | Small |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 1 |
FDA Cleared? | No |
Pros
Safe for all skin tones and hair colors
Features three energy levels
Cons
Expensive compared to similar models
Cannot be used on men’s faces
Laser hair removal devices typically work best on those with light skin tones and dark hair, but this device is one of the few FDA-cleared tools that's clinically proven to be effective on the widest range of hair colors, including blond, dark blond and red hair. The combination of IPL and radiofrequency allows almost anyone to benefit from the permanent hair reduction results. In a clinical trial, participants noted that 46% of all hair was removed in just two treatments, so you don't have to wait long to see results.
Testing Notes: We've been using this hair removal device for over five years with consistently great results. After around six months of regular use, any unwanted hair was completely gone without a trace. Since then, we use it once or twice a year to get rid of any stray hairs that might've grown back. It's surprisingly effective in a short amount of time, which makes it worth the price in our opinion.
Type | IPL and radiofrequency |
---|---|
Flashes | 120,000 |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Ergonomic handle
Cons
Doesn't have unlimited flashes
This device proves that at-home hair removal doesn't have to be expensive. It's best for those with fair to olive skin tones with darker hair and features five energy levels to gently zap away unwanted hair. The higher the energy level, the better the permanent hair reduction results. The LCD screen tells you how many flashes are left (for a total of 300,000 flashes), and the ergonomic handle makes it easy to use on all those hard-to-reach places.
Testing Notes: While we love the under $200 price point, this device isn't made for everyone. If you have a light skin tone and dark hair, you're in luck, but if you have a darker skin tone or you're trying to get rid of blonde hair, this isn't the at-home laser device for you. The price also reflects the limited number of flashes, which is low compared to the other devices on this list.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | 300,000 |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 sensitive skin modes, 1 continuous glide mode |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Smallest At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Smoothskin Bare Plus Ultrafast IPL Laser Permanent Hair Removal
Pros
Ideal for smaller areas
FDA-cleared
Cons
Takes a long time to see results
With its slender shape and small round head, this device makes zapping unwanted hair on your body and face a breeze. It uses the safest, fastest and most advanced IPL technology to reduce hair in as little as four weeks. Plus, it has a safety sensor to measure your skin tone before each flash, only activating if it’s safe. Delivering up to 100 flashes per minute, each treatment of your desired area takes about 10 minutes to complete.
Testing Notes: This device only has one setting, which is great for beginners who are worried about burning themselves with a high-powered laser. However, we were disappointed to find that this laser isn't as powerful and effective as other lasers because it only has that one mode, which means it's going to take longer to see results. On the plus side, this device isn't as painful because of its low setting.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | Unlimited |
Size | Small |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 1 |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Pros
Sleek design
FDA-cleared
Unlimited flashess
Cons
Slow flashes
If you don't want to spend all day removing unwanted hair from your body, this device gets the job done fast. Each treatment takes just minutes: 8 minutes for the leg, 6 minutes for the back, and 1 minute for the face. Powered by patented hair removal technology, it allows for unlimited treatments and work on all skin tones, even on blondes and redheads.
Testing Notes: We love the sleek look of this device, which makes us want to use it regularly. Blondes and redheads are regularly told that laser hair removal won't work for their hair type, which we were happy to learn isn't the case with this device. Finally, blondes and redheads have a way to get rid of their unwanted hair from home! While the process isn't fast, we found that is fairly effective and nearly pain-free. In just three uses, we saw a major reduction in hair loss. After eight uses, the hair had completely vanished.
Type | IPL and radio frequency |
---|---|
Flashes | Unlimited |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 intensity settings |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Customize your speed and intensity
Built-in skin sensor
Cons
Might be intimidating for beginners
With 10 energy settings, three different comfort modes (power, speed, and gentle), and two operating settings (stamp and glide), you can confidently operate this at-home device to your exact specifications, depending on the area and level of discomfort you're willing to endure. It's extremely precise to get into all the nooks and crannies of the different curves on your body and has a built in skin sensor that selects the right intensity for your skin tone, preventing accidental activation.
Testing Notes: We felt like professionals using this high-powered device. It's completely customizable, which allows you to get the results you want without risking injury or too much discomfort. We wish the the head was bigger, which would allow us to treat larger areas quicker, but the various settings and modes more than make up for the lack of a larger head. We would recommend this device to someone who is familiar with laser hair removal devices and wants the ability to be in complete control of their hair removal experience.
Type | IPL |
---|---|
Flashes | Unlimited |
Size | Medium |
Power Source | Corded |
Modes | 3 modes, 10 intensity settings |
FDA Cleared? | Yes |
What Else to Consider
Hair Type
Before you start shopping, it's important to understand how at-home laser hair removal devices work in order to find the one that suits your skin tone and hair color. Laser hair removal devices use light to find and heat the hair follicle, burning it at the root and preventing it from growing more hair during the next hair cycle. Some lasers have difficulty telling the difference between dark hair and melanated skin, which is why those with dark skin tones should seek our IPL hair removal devices. These devices use multiple wavelengths to detect the hair follicle, whereas laser uses one wavelength. IPL devices are generally safer for those with deeper skin tones who want to remove unwanted hair. Likewise, those with fair skin and lightly pigmented body hair should also seek out an IPL hair removal device, as some other devices may not be able to register the hair follicle since they're generally more attracted to dark pigment.
Cost
Expect to drop a decent amount of cash on a laser hair removal device, says celebrity aesthetician and dermatological nurse Natalie Aguilar. "Really good at-home hair removal devices are on the costlier side for a reason. Most of them have been tried and tested for safety and efficacy. I do not recommend shopping for replicas or counterfeits. Just because a laser might look similar doesn't mean it's the same thing!"
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Depending on which technology being used, there are some small differences, but the basics of it is all the same. "The laser light is attracted to the pigment of the hair follicles," says Dr. Akhavan, celebrity dermatologist and founder of The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City . "The darker the hair follicle, and the more difference there is between the hair follicle and the normal skin, more and more energy can be focused on the base of that root of the hair follicle and burn it so it doesn’t grow back."
It's a procedure that's becoming more and more popular for men. Dr. Akhavan notes that while the most popular places are chest and back, he still gets requests all the time for laser hair removal on every body part.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices vs. In-Office Treatments
Spoiler alert: Unlike in-office treatments, their at-home counterparts don't actually use "lasers," but pulsed light devices similar to an IPL. "They target melanin in the root of hair follicles converting it into heat permanently destroying the hair follicle," says Dr. Shirazi. "Laser is more powerful using monochromatic wavelength of light whereas IPL which uses broadband pulsed light."
That's why at-home laser devices requires a lot more treatments than a session with a doctor, which is why doctors like Shirazi recommend doing an in-office appointment for faster results. However, at-home devices are "helpful for maintenance treatments after you have a series of professional sessions," Dr. Shirazi says.
Who Should Use At-Home Hair Removal Devices
Hair Type
At-home laser hair removal devices are not for everyone. Some devices only work if you have light skin and dark hair, so make sure you have the appropriate skin tone and hair color for the laser hair removal device that you're looking to buy.
Cost
Laser hair removal devices are great for those who don't want to spend the time and money to go in-person for laser hair removal treatments. These treatments can be costly and add up over time.
Time
If you aren't consistent with your appointments, you might find that the hair grows back and all progress you might've made in the past is lost. The cost of an at-home device is less than the cost of multiple in-office treatments, which is what it would take to completely get rid of unwanted hair. Plus, you can continue to use the at-home devices for touch ups years down the line. At-home laser hair removal devices allow you the freedom to squeeze in a treatment whenever you have a few minutes of downtime, whether that's before bed or while you're watching TV.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Jaimie DeRosa, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon and owner of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery & Med Spa with offices in Palm Beach, FL and Boston, MA.
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare in San Diego, CA.
- Natalie Aguilar, a licensed aesthetician and dermatological nurse in Los Angeles, CA.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Shop More of Our Favorite Hair Removal Devices
Manscaping Tips | Best Body Groomers | Best Hair Clippers | Best Beard Trimmers | Best Nose Hair Trimmers | Best Head Shavers | Best Back Shavers | Best Electric Razors | Best Pubic Hair Trimmers | Best Eyebrow Trimmers