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The 12 best IPL devices for quick, easy and pain-free hair removal
Some of these machines are £300 off right now!
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Looking for an effective way to remove or reduce body hair? Allow us to introduce you to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal. Not only does it offer more permanent results than waxing or shaving, but it can be done from the comfort of your home. Where do we sign?!
Although at-home IPL machines can be quite the investment, bear in mind you'll be saving on those waxing appointments or razor purchases in the long-term. Plus, it can avoid the dreaded shaving rashes and bumps, as well as in grown hairs, from relentlessly shaving.
Best IPL hair removal devices 2024
Here’s all you need to know about the best IPL hair removal devices around, should you choose to de-fuzz.
What is IPL and how does it work?
IPL works by targeting hair at the root with a flash of light that converts to heat below the skin’s surface, preventing further growth. Treated hairs fall out naturally, while any regrowth is finer — and, with maintenance, can stop altogether.
Before getting started, you’ll need to shave the area you’re treating. IPL needs some hair for the light to ‘grab’ onto (so avoid waxing or epilating just before), but it shouldn’t be used on longer hair as that could result in burning the skin.
Then, you just press the device onto the skin and zap away.
How we test
Unless you're already au fait with IPL devices, they can be a tricky investment to make. With so many models and styles to consider, how do you know which is the best IPL for you? To find the top models, we looked at everything from ease of use and how quickly we saw results, to what attachments it comes with and good its value for money is.
The best IPL devices for easy hair removal...
Philips Lumea IPL Hair Removal 9000 Series
Pros
- Lightweight
- Includes a skin tone sensor feature
- Can be attached to a phone app
Cons
- Some users reported mild discomfort during use
Impatient? The Phillips 9000 Series acts fast, with results seen in just around three weeks. It has a cordless design and four curved attachments which perfectly work around your body's curves – like your underarms and bikini line.
Speaking of, we found this IPL particularly good at tidying up the edges of your bikini line, keeping the area fuzz-free after six weeks of use. And, just like previous Phillips models, it features the same 'SmartSkin' technology which recommends the optimum setting for your skin tone.
Pros
- Has a sensitivity mode
- Comes with many attachments for different areas on the body
- Comes with different window sizes
Cons
- It is not a cordless design which can be restricting
The Phillips 9900 series is a pricer alternative to the 9000, but if you're willing to make the splurge, there's a clear-cut reason why.
Our panel not only found this machine relatively pain-free, thanks to its sensitive mode, but it particularly impressed on facial hair removal.
Testers saw a noticeable reduction in hair here in just four weeks, and the included Facial Hair Remover enabled easy prep before using the device. Also included are four attachments with different sized windows for use on different areas of the body, including the face and bikini line.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | SmartSkin sensor, 4 intelligent attachments: body, face, bikini, underarms, exclusive AI-powered app features, both cordless and corded use, + Facial Hair Remover |
| Flashes | 450,000 |
| What's in the box? | IPL Hair Removal Series 9900 device Facial hair remover What's in the box Intelligent face attachment Intelligent bikini attachment Intelligent underarm attachment Lumea IPL app including exclusive SkinAI features Luxurious pouch |
Pros
- Features five settings for different skin tones
- Comes with a separate tool for facial hair
- Can be connected to a phone app
Cons
- Some users reported that it's less effective on dark and fair skin tones
This device delivers the same powerful hair-zapping technology as the other Philips models on our list, while being a bit kinder on your bank balance. It claims to work on a variety of different hair and skin types too — from dark blonde to black — to break the hair growth cycle.
Not only does it do a stellar job at stunting hair growth, but it also reduces the thickness of the hair on the face and body after just four weeks, without causing any pain or irritation.
If you really want to get your money’s worth, download the Lumea app, which helps you personalise your treatment schedule, as well as providing you with tips and tricks to get the most effective results.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | Five skin type settings, Lumea app, skin sensor |
| What's in the box? | Satin Compact pen trimmer with eyebrow comb and cleaning brush, cleaning cloth, attachment head, precision attachment head, device, manual. |
| Flashes | >250,000 |
Pros
- Comes with multiple attachments and a razor
- Automatically adapts to your skin tone
- Ergonomic shape to reach hard-to-get spots
Cons
- Some users reported that it gives a tingly feeling around sensitive areas
Silk'n's 7 IPL machine is loaded with 600,000 flashes, so even though the initial investment may sting, this gizmo will give you years of silky-smooth limbs – and save your pocket on spenny salon appointments.
It has a rotatable head, so you can get into all the hard-to-reach places, and uses optical and galvanic energy to target hair regrowth from the root. To top things off, it comes with a razor to catch out those stubborn hairs that refuse to budge.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | Three attachments, a case and a razor |
| Flashes | 600,000 |
| What's in the box? | Three attachments, a case and a razor |
Pros
- Only takes 20 minutes for a treatment
- Easy to use
- Can be used across all areas of the body
Cons
- Users reported that it can feel hot on the skin
- Not cordless
With 10 intensity levels to choose from, this device offers the most personalised experience of all the models in this edit. A particular favourite is the glide mode, which speeds things up by delivering flashes on larger areas of the body (such as the legs), while the stamp mode is ideal for small, more sensitive areas.
The pack also comes with a handy razor so you can get started right away. And with the equivalent of 22 years’ worth of flashes pre-loaded, we reckon it’s a worthwhile investment.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | Two treatment heads, 10 light intensities, two treatment modes (stamp and glide), skin tone sensor |
| Flashes | 400,000 flashes |
| What's in the box? | Precision head, razor, device, instructions |
| Usage | Body hair requires one treatment a week (for four to 12 weeks) then whenever you need (every one to two months) |
Pros
- Comes with protective sunglasses
- Can be used all over the body
- Quick and easy to use – no need to switch attachments for other areas of the body
Cons
- Noticeable warmth on the skin
- Not compatible for darker skin tones or those with fair hair
Giving top results in just three weeks, this compact cordless machine packs a real punch. The Bondi Body Laser @ Home V2.0 is one of the speediest tools around, allowing for quick and long-lasting hair removal. Plus its ergonomic design means you can get into all of those hard-to-reach spots with ease.
Taking the faff out of the process, there's no need to change attachments for different areas – instead, there are multiple settings to choose from which will re-generate depending on skin tone.
It's also quiet to use, so it's ideal for zapping those hairs in front of the TV.
Key specifications
| Mains | Yes |
|---|---|
| Cordless | Yes |
| Flashes | > 300,000 flashes |
| Usage | Once a week for 12 weeks |
| What's in the box? | Device, adapter, pouch, safety glasses and instructions |
| Features | 8 light intensities, auto and manual modes |
Pros
- Users reported that it delivers very effective results
- Can be used all over the body and the face
- Is equipped with a skin tone sensor
- Works on sensitive skin
Cons
- It's not cordless
Pros
- Results can be seen after only one use
- Comes with multiple attachments and energy levels
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some users reported that it's less effective on darker/more tanned skin tones
- A little heavy
Sensica's Senilight Pro is loaded with unlimited flashes. That's right, can you justify the splurge now?
Yes it comes with all the bells and whistles – including a cordless design, multiple attachment heads and six different energy levels – but it also has an Automatic Glide Mode, meaning you can move the IPL over your skin without having to press any buttons. Life just became so much easier.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | Yes |
| Flashes | Unlimited |
| Features | Two treatment heads, six intensities, two treatment modes (pulse and glide), skin tone sensor |
| What's in the box? | Device, treatment heads, charging cable, storage bag and instructions |
| Usage | Body hair requires treatment every two weeks for the first four weeks, then once every four weeks afterwards. For facial hair, use it every two weeks for the first five weeks then every four weeks. After seven weeks for body hair and eight for facial hair, top-up as and when needed |
Pros
- Easy to use on those hard-to-reach areas
- Can be connected to a mobile app
- Comes with a skin tone sensor
- Simple settings to navigate
Cons
- Takes multiple treatments to see results
This device aims to keep any discomfort to a minimum, covering the whole body in just 20 minutes. There’s a built-in sensor to scan the skin and select a light setting appropriate for you, plus an app to keep on top of treatments. It’s compact, with a precise head, and it's not painful. Result!
Although it comes with a cord, its ergonomic and petite design still makes it easy to get into the hard-to-reach areas. It also packs a powerful punch, with 400,000 flashes and a 3cm treatment zone to ensure no area is missed.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | Five intensities, skin tone sensor, compatible treatment plan on the mobile app |
| What's in the box? | Power cord, device, UK, EU and US power plugs and instructions |
| Usage | Initially every two weeks, after two months every four weeks, and after this treat as needed |
| Flashes | 400,000 |
Pros
- Has an in-build skin tone detector
- Easy to travel
- Simple to use
- Effective on a wide range of skin tones
Cons
- It's not cordless
With 120 flashes per minute, the Pure Mini Lite is a small yet mighty gadget that reduces hair growth in as little as four weeks.
You can count on safety first here too — this device has a built-in Smart Skin Safety feature to check your skin tone before each flash, and will only activate if it’s safe to do so.
Key specifications
| Power | Power supply |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Features | Two treatment modes and built-in skin sensors for safe and effective treatments |
| What's in the box? | SmoothSkin Bare+ Device, power supply, power cable, instructions |
| Usage | Ten minutes full body, once a week for 12 weeks |
| Flashes | Unlimited |
Pros
- Comes with multiple heads and a razor for all-over zapping and shaving
- Some users noticed a reduction in regrowth after the first use
Cons
- Some users reported that it can tingle in sensitive areas
Ideal for using all over the body, this Braun IPL device has a precision head for those hard-to-reach areas such as the face, underarms and bikini line.
It also has an adaptive sensor that continuously reads your skin tone — which can vary across your body — and alters its flash intensity for the best results. See results from twelve weeks onwards.
Pros
- 180 degree rotating head is easy to use
- Can be used everywhere on the body
- Switches off when not in use
- Comes with protective glasses
Cons
- The cooling fan is quite loud
We're usually sceptical about two-in-one products delivering the most powerful results, but this device proved us wrong. While the IPL head tackles unwanted hair, the 'skin rejuvenation' mode uses flashes of light to help boost collagen and elastin production, aiming to leave you with firmer-looking skin.
The rotating head makes it easier to reach all areas of the body, and all testers said they were hair-free in six weeks. If you're nervous about the pain element of hair removal, this device also features ‘ICE’ technology, which cools skin down to help eliminate discomfort.
Key specifications
| Power | Mains |
|---|---|
| Cordless | No |
| Flashes | >500,000 |
| Usage | Every two weeks for the first six weeks, then touch-up where needed |
| Features | Six energy modes, 180° rotating head |
| What's in the box? | Six attachment heads |
How quickly can I expect results?
Each brand differs, but most suggest starting with a 12-week programme, followed with less frequent top-up sessions to maintain the desired look. Just like a good training schedule, you won’t see results overnight, but keep on top of treatments and you should start to see a noticeable difference.
Can I use IPL on my skin tone?
Sadly, IPL isn’t suitable for everyone. The ideal candidates are those with dark hair that contrasts in colour to their skin tone
Light blonde, white or grey hair simply doesn’t contain enough melanin for these devices to get to work, and red hair also doesn’t respond to this type of light.
Skin tone is also a factor. If you have darker skin, the higher level of melanin can be picked up by the device and absorb the light energy, potentially causing damage.If in doubt, you can read more about the Fitzpatrick skin type scale here, which classifies skin types and sensitivity in more detail. All of the machines on our list include an automatic skin tone sensor to determine optimum intensity and safe settings for your skin tone.
Does IPL hurt?
While not as painless as shaving (albeit way more long-lasting), the feeling of IPL is commonly described as a warm zap, similar to flicking an elastic band on your skin, and some heat, though if it feels too hot you need to ease up on the device.
Just remember that over time you’ll need fewer treatments (and it’s definitely less painful than epilating). A lower light intensity can also help to reduce discomfort, which is worth remembering around the bikini line!
Things to consider when buying an IPL device
Some devices come with a pre-set amount of flashes (most have a minimum of 100,000) and will need a replacement lamp when these run out. Others have an unlimited number, so will last a lifetime. The shorter the gap between flashes, the quicker your treatment time is going to be.
It’s also worth checking out the number of treatment heads included with your device. If you’re planning on using it on the upper lip or bikini line, a smaller head, or a device with interchangeable attachments, may be preferable.
Look out for IPLs with a range of modes. For precision, you may want to select the stamp mode, but if you're using it on larger areas such as the legs, the glide mode will speed up treatment time.
Whichever device you go for, it’s very important to read the instructions thoroughly.
Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.
With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.
When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites
Clare Stephenson is a Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Red and Good Housekeeping, covering all things makeup, skincare and hair care, as well as deals events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Clare has been an ecommerce writer since 2022, writing matter-of-fact such as deep dives into and filled with her favourite products for every budget and need.
Before working at Hearst UK, she received a BA degree in Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on the world of magazines and editorial. From there, she worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events like Fashion Week and interviewing reputable brand founders, including Rea Ann Silva creator of Beautyblender.
When she’s not testing the latest and greatest products, you can find Clare sifting through vintage clothing stores in the city or horseback riding in the countryside.
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