At-home laser hair removal promises the convenience of treating unwanted hair from the comfort of your own home, but it comes with significant limitations. Read on to explore the pros, cons, and safety concerns of at-home devices compared to professional treatments to help you make a decision on your hair-free journey.

The Limitations of At-Home Laser Hair Removal

The hair-free journey is filled with many options. And to rid themselves of unwanted body hair, many people choose at-home laser hair removal. It’s convenient. And it can be done on your bed or couch. 

But other variables must be considered, especially safety and efficacy. If you’re considering at-home laser hair removal and have questions, read on to discover what to expect.

The Glimmer of Convenience

Home is a place of comfort, and if you so choose, a place for your laser hair removal needs. There’s an understandable allure to achieving hair-free goals without driving to a clinic or spa.

  • DIY Appeal: At-home devices offer the convenience of self-treatment on your own schedule. Whether before or after work or while waiting for a dinner delivery, you can address unwanted hair when you prefer.
  • Lower Cost: At-home devices are less expensive compared to the cost of laser hair removal at a reputable clinic or spa. They can range anywhere from $200 to $450, depending on the brand you choose.

Drawbacks of At-Home Laser Hair Removal

Although convenient, at-home laser hair removal devices also come with flaws, including:

Lower Energy Output

At-home devices have a lower energy output compared to those used in a professional clinic. This can lead to inconsistent results due to lower energy levels from the laser, which won’t compromise the follicle’s growth cycle like a true laser.

That means you’ll have to use your device frequently. And even then, you could see minimal results. Also, most at-home devices use intense pulsed light (IPL) which is not true laser technology.

We see that exact frustration from many Milan clients who are over the lack of results from their IPL devices.

“I’ve always said the benefits of laser hair removal with our machine is you’re going to see results so much faster,” said Milan Provider Educator Alyssa A. “After the first treatment, some people can already notice a 40 to 50% reduction. And with IPL, they’re on their sixth treatment and are still seeing a lot of growth. If you come in for consistent treatments with us, the results are just so much more worth it than the IPL.”

Safety Concerns

Without proper training or the supervision of an in-clinic professional, there's an increased risk of:

  • Burning: If you have darker skin tones (which can’t be treated by all at-home devices) there is a real risk of burns occurring during treatment. That doesn’t even account for the very real chance of improperly using the device, leaving you with literal and figurative pain.
  • Injury: Most at-home devices do not come with safety goggles. They’re standard at reputable laser hair removal clinics and spas, and without them, your eyes could be harmed by the laser.
  • Limited Suitability: We already mentioned that not all darker skin tones can be treated with an at-home device. Hair color and thickness are other factors for potential consumers to consider that could impact their desired results.

Unrealistic Expectations

Many devices claim quick, effective results. Those expectations are unrealistic. Hair reduction isn’t permanent with an at-home laser, and results often aren’t seen for weeks or months.

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At-home devices have a lower energy output compared to those used in a professional clinic. This can lead to inconsistent results due to lower energy levels from the laser …”

Professional Laser Hair Removal: A Safe, More Effective Path

  • Expertise and Training: At Milan Laser, our Authorized Candela Practitioners are highly trained in utilizing advanced laser technology to provide safe and effective hair removal treatments.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: Before your hair-free journey begins, you’ll discuss hair-free goals with your laser hair removal professional. You’ll choose the body areas to address and treatment will be customized to your needs, tailored to your specific skin type and hair color.
  • Reduced Risk of Side Effects: Our medical professionals know the required laser settings to keep you safe and give you the best results with far less of a chance of any complication.
  • Realistic Expectations: Skin tone, hair type, and any other relevant information will be discussed during your consultation to put an accurate timeline in place to achieve your desired results.
Woman grinning and raising her arm above her head as she gets professional laser hair removal in a clinic. Photo for a post on at-home laser hair removal and its limitations

Ready To Book Your Free Consultation?

At-home laser hair removal devices may seem convenient, but their risks and limitations make professional treatments a safer, more effective option for smooth, hair-free skin. Milan Laser Hair Removal, the largest provider in the U.S., offers advanced technology for long-lasting results. Book a free consultation at one of our 390+ locations nationwide to see how our advanced technology will help you achieve the long-lasting results you want.

Milan Laser consultation session

Frequently Asked Questions

No. At-home laser hair removal is NOT permanent. While it may be convenient to treat yourself at home, you won’t be fully hair-free. And you will need to treat yourself often.

Results can be patchy, inconsistent, and most important, not guaranteed. In fact, many devices are not FDA-cleared, so your safety isn’t fully guaranteed either.

Yes. Some devices have attachments designed for that area of the body. But remember, you may never get completely hair-free, and you’ll have to repeat that process every time hair grows. It’s always better to visit a professional laser hair removal clinic.

It depends on the device you choose. Some will recommend addressing unwanted hair a few times a week. Others will say you need to treat yourself every couple of weeks.

Yes, shaving must take place for the device to focus on the root of the hair to achieve the best results.

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