Do at-home laser hair removal devices work?
You’ve probably seen ads for at-home laser hair removal devices pop up on your Instagram and TikTok feeds. And, like a lot of things on social media, the reality may be different than how it appears. When it comes to at home laser hair removal devices, the big question is: are they worth it? Or does it make more sense investing in professional laser hair removal? Celebrity dermatologist and Chief Medical Officer of LaserAway, Dr. Will Kirby, weighs in — let’s compare the two to see which one is more deserving of your time and money in the end.
Do at-home laser hair removal devices work?
At-home laser hair removal devices have surged in popularity in recent years, promising the convenience of hair removal in the comfort of your own home. But do they actually work? Here are a few things to consider before deciding whether to invest in an at-home device:
Temporary results: According to Dr. Kirby, “if your goal is to remove hair, then at-home laser hair removal devices technically work, but only to the extent that shaving, waxing and creams remove hair — temporarily.” But if you’re looking to reduce hair permanently, then these at-home devices may not fit the bill.
Limited effectiveness: One of the significant limitations of at-home devices is their inability to provide long-lasting results. Why? Dr. Kirby explains, “At-home laser hair removal devices don’t have the proper wavelength of light and they don’t have the power source to destroy stem cells at the bottom of the bulb that causes hair growth.” Essentially, these at-home laser hair removal devices target the hair shaft rather than the follicle, meaning hair will grow back in a matter of weeks.
Suitability for all skin types: Another thing you should consider is whether at-home devices are suitable for all skin types. Dr. Kirby reports that, “At-home laser hair removal devices are NOT safe for all skin types.” These devices can be less safe for those with darker skin tones or lighter hair. This is because at-home laser hair removal devices can’t differentiate that well between hair pigment and skin pigment, which can lead to burns.
The gold standard: Laser hair removal done with the right technology
Professional laser hair removal done with the right technology is often hailed as the most effective solution for long-term hair reduction, especially compared to other common hair removal methods, like at-home laser hair removal devices. Why? Let’s break it down:
Permanent hair reduction: Unlike at-home devices, professional laser hair removal treatments result in permanent hair reduction. This is because professional lasers, such as the Cynosure Apogee Elite, have the power and precision to target and destroy the hair follicle, preventing future hair growth. Hair is permanently reduced by up to 80% after a series of treatments.
Advanced technology: The Cynosure Apogee Elite is considered one of the most advanced professional laser hair removal technologies available on the market. Dr. Kirby explains, “The Cynosure Apogee Elite combines 1064 and 755 nanometer wavelengths of light, meaning it delivers a lot more power than your at-home device.” This dual-wavelength technology ensures that both fine and coarse hair can be treated efficiently, and it can also treat a wide range of skin types, giving superior results. .
Safety and precision: The Cynosure Apogee Elite excels when it comes to safety — it’s equipped with advanced cooling systems to protect the skin during treatment, reducing the risk of burns or discomfort. The precision of this technology allows for targeted treatment, ensuring that only the hair follicles are treated while the surrounding skin remains unharmed.
Suitability for all skin types: What makes the Cynosure Apogee Elite stand out is that it’s safe and effective on all skin types. Whether you have light, medium, or dark skin, this technology can be adjusted to suit your specific needs.
The Verdict: At-home devices vs professional treatments
When deciding between at-home laser hair removal devices and professional laser treatments, consider these factors:
Convenience vs effectiveness: At-home devices offer the convenience of performing treatments at your own pace and in your own space. However, this convenience comes at the cost of effectiveness and long lasting results. If you’re looking for a quick fix and are okay with regular maintenance, at-home devices may be good enough. But for those looking for lasting results, professional laser hair removal treatments are the way to go.
Safety considerations: Safety should always be a priority when considering laser hair removal. Professional treatments performed by trained medical professionals significantly reduce the risk of burns, scarring, or suboptimal results. The advanced technology used in professional settings, like the Cynosure Apogee Elite, ensures both safety and efficacy when it comes to removing unwanted hair on all skin types.
Cost: While at-home laser hair removal devices may seem more affordable initially, the need for frequent maintenance can add up over time. Professional laser hair removal might have a higher upfront cost, but the long-term benefits and reduced need for ongoing treatments can make it a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
The winner is obvious
In the debate between at-home laser hair removal devices and professional laser hair removal, it’s clear that the winner is professional laser hair removal, especially if you’re looking for permanent hair reduction. As Dr. Kirby points out, the Cynosure Apogee Elite is the best laser hair removal technology on the market, catering to all skin types and providing lasting results. While at-home devices offer convenience, they fail to deliver the permanent and reliable outcomes that professional treatments can achieve. For smooth, hair-free skin that lasts, professional laser hair removal is undoubtedly the better choice.
Want to learn more about laser hair removal? Reach out to LaserAway, the nation’s leader in aesthetic dermatology, where all treatments are performed by registered nurses, physician associates, and nurse practitioners, so you know you’re in good hands! Plus, LaserAway only uses the most advanced laser hair removal technology, the Cynosure Apogee Elite, so you can only expect outstanding results!
References
1. “At-Home Laser Hair Removal vs. Professional—Which is Better?,” Philadelphia Magazine, n.d.
2. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.
3. “Use of a Home Hair Removal Device for Permanent Hair Reduction in Skin Types I to VI,” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, May 2024.
