When pursuing laser hair removal, many people choose to work with trained professionals at a reputable clinic or spa, though that’s not the case for everyone. Some opt for at-home laser hair removal as a way to reduce future hair growth. Treating certain areas at home can feel more convenient, but there are important factors to consider, especially around safety. If you’re deciding between at-home and in-clinic laser hair removal, read on to better understand your options.

Benefits of Professional Laser Hair Removal

In-clinic treatment holds a significant advantage in two areas: technology and expertise. Seeking hair-free skin in a clinic grants access to the latest, safest, and most effective technology that will work on any skin tone and most hair colors in a professional setting. Additionally, choosing a clinic puts clients in the hands of a professional and an expert. 

The laser light targets and destroys the hair follicle to address unwanted hair and prevent future hair growth. With repeated treatments every five weeks, clients can maintain the smooth, hair-free look they always wanted.

With the aid of a laser hair removal professional, you can tailor treatment plans to best meet your hair-free goals. You’ll also be equipped with helpful pre- and post-treatment instructions to keep your timelines on track and avoid delays from sun exposure and not shaving.

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At-home laser may be convenient, but professional treatment delivers safer, longer-lasting results.”

The Convenience of At-Home Laser Hair Removal

Many people find comfort in being able to do things themselves at home — which is exactly the appeal of at-home laser hair removal. But does it lead to long-lasting results? While at-home devices cost less upfront — typically between $200 and $500 — they won’t give you permanent results like professional treatments can.

Plus, the technology of an at-home device produces a lower energy output, leading to less effective treatments. This leads to inconsistent results that won’t impact a hair follicle’s growth cycle to the same degree as a professional laser can.

Woman visiting with a nurse in a Milan Laser clinic, learning the difference between at-home and professional laser hair removal

Making the Right Choice for You

So, what’s the best option for you? At-home laser devices or in-clinic laser hair removal? Some of the more important aspects to consider are cost, results, and safety. And when you look at the whole picture, the benefits of having professional sessions are significant.

Laser hair removal in a clinic is an investment in your hair-free future. It's a safe option, works on all skin tones, which is not the case with at-home treatment. And don’t forget that getting hair-free is a longer task at home. Treatment sessions are more time-consuming than at a clinic because at-home devices have a limited treatment area size.

Another big concern with at-home devices is the inability to see all desired areas to treat. Using a professional ensures every body area will be treated with appropriate coverage. Doing it yourself is likely to lead to inconsistent results, leaving patches of untreated hair.

Plus, consider how often treatments will be needed. The general expectation in a clinic is for treatment every five weeks for long-term hair reduction. At-home devices usually require treatment every week or every other week for ideal results … but even then, you won’t be permanently hair-free, and the at-home technology doesn't work on every skin type.

Ready to Take the Next Steps?

Permanent results and professional care are staples of Milan Laser, and why we’re the country’s largest provider of laser hair removal. You deserve the best, so don’t settle for the sub-par results from at-home treatment. Find out for yourself by booking a free consultation at any  of our 400+ locations nationwide. Join the hair-free movement, and make silky-smooth skin your norm!

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, professional laser hair removal is better than at-home laser hair removal. Professional laser hair removal is safe, uses true laser technology, is performed under the careful supervision of a professional, and is far more precise than at-home laser technology.

The main differences between professional and at-home laser hair removal treatment are technology, results, and effectiveness. Professional treatment uses true laser technology with a single, focused wavelength of light, while at-home doesn’t always use a true laser, often a flashlamp that emits a broad spectrum of light. That difference is noticed with results and effectiveness, too, as professional laser treatments can yield permanent results. The same can’t be said about at-home treatment.

No, IPL (intense pulsed light) laser technology is not as good as professional laser hair removal. IPL results can be patchy, inconsistent, and most importantly, not guaranteed. Smooth, hair-free skin is not a guarantee. In fact, some devices are not FDA-cleared, so your safety isn’t fully guaranteed either.

This is a matter of preference. IPL laser hair removal devices are less expensive than in-clinic laser hair removal, but their results aren’t as effective as professional laser hair removal. Many IPL devices require use multiple times a week to maintain desired results, while in-clinic treatments are performed approximately every five weeks. Additionally, at-home devices aren't all effective with darker skin, which can result in ineffective treatments or possibly even skin damage.

Yes, it is ok to do laser hair removal at home. However, keep in mind that you won’t ever get completely hair-free, and you’ll likely need maintenance treatments weekly, if not multiple times a week. Professional laser hair removal would be the better option if the goal is a reduction in hair growth for unwanted hair.

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