For many, hair removal is a tedious chore, with waxing kits proving messy, shaving results fleeting, and salon laser treatments costing thousands. At-home IPL (intense pulsed light) devices have surged in popularity as a cost-effective alternative, targeting hair follicle pigment to disrupt regrowth cycles. While not as powerful as clinic-grade lasers, modern IPL tools feature tailored intensity levels, skin sensors, and faster treatment times.
To identify the best options, a tester evaluated several bestselling IPL and at-home laser devices over weeks, assessing comfort, ease of use, and regrowth reduction. The Philips Lumea 9900 emerged as the top performer, praised for its sleek design, comfortable grip, and 'smartskin' sensor that automatically adjusts light intensity based on skin tone. It includes four attachments for face, body, bikini line, and underarms, and can be used corded or cordless. The accompanying app tracks treatment schedules, though the device's high price and initial setup complexity were noted.
The Ulike Air 3 impressed with its built-in sapphire ice-cooling system, minimising discomfort even at higher settings. Priced at around £300, it feels premium and includes a razor and protective glasses. Its automatic flash mode speeds up treatments, but the device is corded and bulky, making hard-to-reach areas tricky. It is unsuitable for very dark skin or very light hair.
Braun's Smart Skin i-expert was easy to set up, with an app that creates custom treatment plans and sends reminders. The device comes with attachments for different body areas and enables a full-body session in 15–20 minutes. However, it is not cordless, and the app occasionally lagged or had Bluetooth connectivity issues.
