Sarinda Johnson
Sarinda is a dermatologist with over 20 years of experience in the skin care industry. She is committed to providing high quality cosmetic treatments.
sarinda@beautyselect.org
Sarinda Johnson
sarinda@beautyselect.org
Sarinda is a dermatologist with over 20 years of experience in the skin care industry. She is committed to providing high quality cosmetic treatments.
The Top 5 Best Home Hair Removal Devices Selected Based on Principles, Effectiveness, User Experience, Safety, and Customer Feedback.
Dermatologists tested over 40 home hair removal devices and chose the top 5.
Not all body hair is exactly welcome, like underarm hair, leg hair, and so on. These hairs can be stubborn and hard to manage, often affecting our occasional desire to look our best. They can also make women hesitant to wear sleeveless tops, off-shoulder outfits, or short skirts.
So, in order to help women wear beautiful clothes, look stunning, and get ready for a romantic date with the upcoming summer, we’ve decided to test and select the five most cost-effective home hair removal devices to recommend.
There are many methods of hair removal, so why do I recommend home hair removal devices? The main methods of hair removal are as follows:
The razor method is similar to eyebrow trimming or shaving. It’s easy to use, and as long as you keep steady hands, it won’t hurt the skin. However, new hair usually grows back within 2-5 days, and the more you shave, the thicker it gets and can be prickly.
Wax strips pull hair from the root, and while they’re cheap and easy to use, I personally wouldn’t recommend them. The pain is intense, and it really hits you hard! New hair typically grows back in 15-30 days, but for those afraid of pain, it’s a method to avoid!
Hair removal creams dissolve hair using chemical agents like thioglycolic acid, which can irritate the skin. Although they are inexpensive and easy to use, new hair grows back in 2-5 days, and it often feels coarser and prickly. You’ll need to use them at least twice a week.
Laser hair removal at beauty salons works on the principle of selective photothermolysis (SPTL). It selectively heats the dark pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle, which damages the cells responsible for hair growth, while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. However, it requires multiple sessions and is quite expensive, which makes it time-consuming and not very cost-effective.
Home hair removal devices use light and heat to transmit energy to the hair follicles, causing them to degrade and stop hair growth at the root. Unlike salon laser hair removal, these devices can be used at home anytime you need them. They are hygienic (no shared laser heads with others), cost-effective, and save time.
This is why I recommend home hair removal devices.
Before choosing a home hair removal device, you may need to understand the following questions.
Energy density refers to the amount of light energy the device outputs per unit area. The higher the energy density, the more effective and long-lasting the hair removal effect.
However, higher energy isn’t always better. Higher energy means higher temperature, which can result in more noticeable pain. If the skin is sensitive or the device is not used properly, it can easily lead to burns.
Energy density is an important indicator of hair removal effectiveness. Typically, it ranges from 2.5 to 6 J/cm². The higher the energy density, the faster the hair removal effect, while lower density devices may require more treatments, but they will still eventually achieve the desired result.
Currently, most hair removal devices on the market use intense pulsed light (IPL), with options for non-ice point (warm) and ice point (cooling). Most models feature ice point laser hair removal.
The IPL light waves target only the melanin in hair follicles, which makes it harmless to the skin. When used regularly with a set frequency, it slows down hair growth, providing better results compared to older technologies.
Conclusion:
- If you’re a “rich lady” seeking better hair removal results and don’t mind some pain, laser hair removal would be a great option.
- If you’re on a budget and looking for a painless, safe, and effective hair removal method, IPL hair removal devices are definitely the better choice.
In the home hair removal device market, laser hair removal devices are rare. In terms of safety, effectiveness, and ease of use, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal devices are more widely recognized. Therefore, the focus will be on IPL hair removal devices.
Once you purchase a hair removal device, you cannot adjust its parameters—at most, you can adjust the energy levels. Since hair removal devices work by emitting light, the “wavelength” and “energy density” of the light are the two most important parameters for the device.
The “wavelength” is actually quite easy to understand. The light must be able to penetrate the skin and reach the hair follicle in order to precisely heat the melanin and inhibit hair growth, thereby removing the hair. However, the depth of hair follicles varies by location. To achieve thorough hair removal, you need to choose a light with a longer wavelength and stronger penetration power for better results.
Only light with a wavelength greater than 550nm can penetrate to the depth of the hair follicle and be absorbed by the melanin. When the wavelength exceeds 600nm, the light can penetrate hair follicles deeper than 3mm. Moreover, the longer the wavelength, the greater the penetration depth.
So when buying a hair removal device, you should choose one with a wavelength of more than 550nm. This way, the light can reach deeper hair follicles, ensuring a more thorough hair removal process.
Whether it’s an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) hair removal device or a laser hair removal device, they both work based on the principle of “selective photothermolysis.” We can think of the light emitted by the hair removal device as an arrow shot by an athlete. It’s not randomly shot without purpose; it needs to have a target, a “bullseye.”
When we want to stop hair from growing in the hair follicle, what should the target be?
The answer is: melanin.
Melanin-producing cells grow in the epidermal basal layer, tirelessly producing melanin to support hair growth. Melanin has a strong phototropic property, so when the light from the hair removal device is emitted, it “ignites” the melanin, effectively removing the hair.
Therefore, the hair removal device targets the melanin in the hair follicle, with no direct effect or impact on the skin or other tissues beneath the skin. Sweat glands and hair follicles are separate tissues, so the hair removal device does not affect the sweat glands.
Generally speaking, the more flashes a device has, the more durable and long-lasting it is. With a higher flash count, you can use the device for a longer period, and if you don’t mind, it can even be shared among multiple people. However, if the flash count is low, you might find yourself struggling to complete your hair removal session if it runs out of flashes halfway through.
Here’s a little tip: the typical flash count is around 200,000 flashes or more, and some models even offer unlimited flashes.
When choosing a device, a flash count of 200,000 or more is great, as it ensures a long lifespan and will be enough for personal use for many years!
The flash area refers to the size of the lamp head. The larger the area, the bigger the hair removal zone for each flash, leading to quicker and more efficient treatments. However, a larger lamp head also means lower energy density, which can weaken the effectiveness. Therefore, when choosing a hair removal device, it’s recommended to opt for a lamp head with a flash area of 3 to 4.5 cm² for the best balance of efficiency and effectiveness.
Before purchasing a hair removal device, make sure it is suitable for your skin tone and hair color. If you’re unsure, you can ask customer service for clarification before making the purchase.
Here is our list of the 5 most cost-effective IPL hair removal devices of 2025, with an explanation at the bottom of the page about why these two devices are our top choices.
PRODUCT
SCORE
ADVANTAGE
DEFICIENCY
9.9
“outstanding”
Users’ Rating
（8,256+）
- Can be used both wirelessly and with a wired connection.
- With digital display screen, energy and times can be seen
- Mode selection for different areas
- 5 Adjustable Levels
- 990,000 Flashes
- Auto/Manual Flash Dual Modes
- Sapphire Lamp
- Energy up to 13.8 J
- Hair Removal Wavelength: 550-1200nm
- Flash Area: 3.3 cm²
Lumiface FP09
Price: ￡149
- Sold online only
- It does not come with multiple heads
9.8
“Excellent”
PU18
Price: ￡169
- Energy output up to 5 J/cm²
- Nine intensity levels
- Multi-head design
- With digital display screen, energy and times can be seen
- 350,000 flashes
- Hair Removal Wavelength: 600-1200nm
- Standard Energy Density: 15J
- Auto/Manual Flash Dual Modes
- Flash Area: 3 cm²
- Wired use only
- Increase budget
- Sold online only
9.5
“Great”
UI06
Price：￡319
- Ice sensation technology, enhances comfort
- Energy output up to 6 J/cm²
- Multiple intensity levels adjustment
- Large area flash
- Lightweight and portable
- Equipped with a hair removal razor and protective goggles
- Wired use only
- Expensive
- It does not have a multi-head design.
9.4
“Good”
Silk-Expert Pro 5
Price：￡549
- The maximum light intensity is 6 J/cm²
- Sensitive Area Attachments
- SensoAdapt Technology
- Fast and Efficient
- Long-Lasting Results
- Gentle on Skin
- Cost-Effective Over Time
- some users may experience mild discomfort or a sensation
- Very expensive
- Wired use only
- It does not come with protective goggles
9.3
“Good”
Pure Adapt Green
Price：￡299
- Smart skin tone sensing
- Fast hair removal
- Multi-speed adjustment
- Suitable for the whole body
- Long-term effects
- Energy output up to 6 J/cm²
- Wired use only
- It does not have a multi-head design.
- Expensive
- Some users may feel slight tingling or heat during use
Top Choices for the Best Hair Removal Device
9.9
“outstanding”
Users’ Rating
（8,256+）
- Can be used both wirelessly and with a wired connection.
- With digital display screen, energy and times can be seen
- Mode selection for different areas
- 5 Adjustable Levels
- 990,000 Flashes
- Auto/Manual Flash Dual Modes
- Sapphire Lamp
- Energy up to 13.8 J
- Hair Removal Wavelength: 550-1200nm
- Flash Area: 3.3 cm²
Lumiface FP09
Price: ￡149
- Sold online only
- It does not come with multiple heads
Users are very satisfied, and after use, it really suppressed hair growth
Very convenient, you can enjoy the hair removal results at home
Best quality at the best price. The incredible effects and convenient practicality of this hair removal device are unrivalled, and the price is tight at £149
Should I buy Lumiface?
If you are one of the following people, we recommend you use IPL Hair Removal Device
IPL technology effectively reduces hair growth, making it ideal for those who don’t want to shave or wax frequently. With regular use, long-term hair reduction can be achieved.
IPL devices work best on individuals with lighter skin and darker hair. IPL targets the melanin in hair, so the combination of dark hair and light skin is the most effective.
If you want to save time and money and don’t want to go to a salon every time for hair removal, a home IPL hair removal device is a great choice, allowing you to use it anytime at home.
Compared to traditional laser hair removal, IPL generally causes less discomfort. While some mild stinging may be felt, many people find it more comfortable than other methods.
IPL devices can come with different attachments suitable for sensitive areas like the underarms, bikini line, and face, offering a safer and more convenient experience.
While the initial cost may be higher, compared to repeated salon treatments, a home IPL hair removal device offers a more cost-effective long-term solution.
For those who dislike razors, hair removal creams, or wax strips, an IPL hair removal device provides a more convenient and effective method.
If you belong to the following groups, we do not recommend you to use IPL hair removal device
IPL technology works best on light skin and dark hair. Dark skin may absorb too much light energy, leading to burns or pigmentation issues.
You can consult customer service to determine if the device is suitable for your skin type.
IPL technology relies on melanin to guide light energy, so it is less effective on light-colored hair (such as blonde, gray, or white hair).
You can consult customer service to determine whether the device is suitable for your hair color.
Pregnant women should avoid using IPL devices, as while there is no evidence to suggest it harms the fetus, it is best to avoid it due to unknown safety concerns.
Those with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or skin infections, or damaged skin (such as sunburn or cuts) should not use IPL devices.
If you are using medications that increase sensitivity to light (such as certain antibiotics or acne treatments), IPL use may cause skin irritation or an exaggerated reaction.
People with conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or other conditions that affect skin health may face safety risks when using IPL devices.
It is not recommended to use IPL devices around the eyes, as the light may cause eye damage. Avoid directing the device at the eyes or the skin around them.
Before starting with an IPL hair removal device, it is best to consult with a doctor, especially if you belong to any of the above categories.
Choose Lumiface FP09 OR PU18
If you need convenience and don’t like being restricted
Lumiface FP09 wireless hair removal device is very suitable for users who need high flexibility and mobility. If you don’t like being bound by wires and like to remove hair more freely, then wireless hair removal device is an ideal choice.
If you need different heads to meet various needs
If you need to use different blades for different parts (such as legs, underarms, face, etc.), or have multiple hair removal needs, the PU18 multi-blade hair removal device provides more flexibility.
We've purchased and tested the most popular hair removal device, which is why Lumiface FP09 is our #1 choice
Summary: For the past few months, we have been testing different at-home hair removal devices. We have always been looking for a cost-effective wireless hair removal device. There are very few wireless hair removal devices on the market, and they are incredibly expensive. Until we found Lumiface FP09. We couldn’t believe we could get a wireless and effective at-home hair removal device at such a low price. It also features a cooling function, multiple adjustable levels, and modes for different areas. Apart from the minor flaw of not having multiple heads, everything else is truly perfect.
For the past 20 years, I have been dedicated to helping more people benefit from beauty and skincare. With at-home hair removal devices becoming mainstream, these devices can remove most of the hair you want to eliminate from your body.
Hair removal devices vary greatly in price, and almost all claim to have real hair removal effects. So, what’s the truth? Do they work? How do they work? Are they worth the price? Why do you need to shave before using them? Stick with it, and there’s no doubt that truly effective hair removal devices can suppress hair growth. However, with so many hair removal devices on the market, it’s hard to know where to start. Which ones are genuinely effective? Which ones are certified? Are they safe to use at home? That’s why we’ve tested the at-home hair removal devices on the market, so we can better recommend the right and cost-effective products for you.
There are many methods for hair removal, so why recommend at-home hair removal devices? First, if you’re used to razors, waxing, or hair removal creams, you’ll notice that these methods not only harm the skin but also lead to increased hair growth, making it impossible to achieve true hair removal. On the other hand, going to a beauty salon requires scheduling an appointment, setting aside time to visit, and spending a lot of money. For those with obsessive cleanliness, sharing a razor with others can also be unacceptable. Moreover, the biggest issue with laser hair removal is that while the energy is high, the pain level is also quite high, making it very unfriendly for those who are sensitive to pain. Therefore, at-home hair removal devices have become the best option for the general public. They are not only hygienic but also allow you to remove hair whenever it fits into your schedule. However, after hair removal, it’s important to remember to moisturize and protect your skin from the sun. That’s why we recommend hair removal before summer arrives, so you can enjoy wearing sleeveless tops and shorts when the warm weather comes!
When choosing an at-home hair removal device, it’s important to pay attention to factors such as the energy density, wavelength range, flash count, and flash area. Most importantly, make sure the device is suitable for your skin tone and hair color before making a choice.
My First Impression
My package arrived just 6 days after ordering, which already put me in a great mood. There’s nothing worse than purchasing something online and having to wait weeks for it to arrive. So far, I’m satisfied with the company’s delivery process.
After unboxing, I held the Lumiface FP09 and PU18 in my hands. Both devices felt very comfortable to grip and had a great texture—almost indistinguishable from the “brand name” quality. I thought I would only be able to compare the effectiveness after using them, wondering if there would be a significant difference. But the results showed that the difference is minimal. The Lumiface FP09 is an incredible value, offering a wireless hair removal device at such a low price. It also allows you to choose between wireless operation or directly connecting to a power cable, so you don’t have to worry about running out of battery mid-use and waiting for it to recharge.
The performance of the PU18 also exceeded my expectations. It has nine intensity levels, catering to different needs for various areas of the body. The cooling design is great; it feels pleasantly cool during use. Even when using it at the highest setting, it only feels mildly warm. The cooling feature is especially friendly for those who are sensitive to pain.
The Lumiface hair removal devices are CE, FCC, and ROHS certified, and their effectiveness has been tested, so their safety is well guaranteed.
Test
Finally, it was time for testing. If the device didn’t work well, no matter how cheap it was, it wouldn’t be worth recommending.
We mainly tested the hair removal devices based on principles, effectiveness, user experience, safety, and customer feedback.
Testers using the PU18 generally noticed a significant slowdown in hair growth after about two weeks, and their skin also seemed to improve. The results varied for people with different skin tones and hair colors, but it received mostly positive reviews. It also features a one-touch automatic mode, so you don’t need to manually operate it multiple times. You only need to move it around, and it will automatically emit light. Plus, it comes with safety goggles and two small heads, making it convenient and safe for areas like the underarms, face, and bikini line. It also has a large LED display showing the intensity level and the remaining flashes. With 350,000 flashes, you can clearly see the remaining count with each use. After two months of use, hair growth is almost completely suppressed, though this also depends on the intensity level used. For those with higher pain tolerance, using a higher intensity can speed up hair growth inhibition.
The reason we ranked it second is because its weight, price, and lack of wireless functionality might not be as friendly for some users, but the value for money is still very high!
Testers using the Lumiface FP09 generally saw noticeable results after four weeks, with a significant reduction in hair growth speed. After two to three months, most users experienced near-complete hair cessation, and only regular maintenance was needed afterward. Although it doesn’t come with multiple heads, it does have mode selections for different areas and an automatic mode. It also includes safety goggles. The wireless design earned high praise for its flexibility, and it’s very easy to store. The five energy levels cater to the needs of most users. Both products come in high-end packaging, making them ideal for gifts.
After several months of testing both hair removal devices and evaluating their effectiveness, I can confidently say that you won’t find any products at the same price point that compare to these. The quality and results of these two devices truly rival those of major brand hair removal devices priced over £300. Here are some reasons why Lumiface stands out:
Convenience: There’s no need to visit a beauty salon or clinic; you can use it at home. The usage is simple, and users can easily incorporate it into their regular hair removal routine.
Safe and Cost-Effective: The Ice Point IPL hair removal device is painless, non-invasive, and won’t harm your skin. With a one-time payment, you can enjoy hair removal results at home, saving a lot of money compared to salon treatments.
Automatic Mode: Both the Lumiface FP09 and PU18 have an automatic mode. For larger areas like the legs and arms, the automatic mode saves time by eliminating the need to press a button after every flash, making the process faster and more convenient.
Long-Term Investment: Compared to regular visits to beauty salons, at-home hair removal devices can be a more economical long-term skincare investment. With consistent use, they can effectively suppress hair growth.
User Reviews and Recommendations: All users who tested these products gave them consistent positive reviews. Long-term use of the Lumiface FP09 or PU18 has shown that hair in treated areas no longer grows back.