Do At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices Actually Work?

If you’re tired of unwanted facial or body hair, you may have wondered about at-home laser hair removal devices and whether they really work. With so many products on the market promising smooth, hair-free skin from the comfort of your home, you need to separate fact from fiction.

At Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology of Cherry Creek in Denver, Colorado, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Adrienne Stewart and our team of experienced aesthetic providers put your health and wellness first. 

Keep reading as we dive into what at-home laser hair removal devices are, the pros and cons of using them on your body, and why professional laser hair removal might be a safer and more effective choice.  

Understanding at-home laser hair removal

At-home laser hair removal devices use laser light to target the melanin in your hair follicles. This light heats up the hair follicles, which either damages or destroys the hair root, slowing or preventing future growth. Although these devices are inspired by professional machines, they’re less powerful to ensure safety for home use. 

Effectiveness of at-home laser hair removal

You can use at-home laser hair removal devices on various parts of your body, including your legs, underarms, and bikini line. In other words, they offer a similar versatility in treatment regions as professional laser hair removal devices.

It’s true that these at-home devices remove hair, but because of their smaller treatment head size, it takes much longer to treat the same area compared to the in-clinic machine we use  at Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology of Cherry Creek. 

Professional laser hair removal involves careful consideration of the three-part life cycle of your hair, with treatment taking place during the growth stage. At-home laser hair removal devices don’t do this. 

Because our providers are trained to identify the best time in your hair’s growth cycle for laser hair removal, we can give you the best results in fewer treatment sessions. 

Other considerations of at-home laser hair removal

In addition to effectiveness, there are other factors to think about when deciding between at-home and professional laser hair removal.

Safety and potential risks

When used correctly, at-home devices are generally safe for most skin types. This is especially true since they're designed to operate at lower energy levels.

On the flip side, misuse can lead to skin burns or pigmentation changes, especially in people with darker skin tones. The guidance of a professional provider significantly minimizes these risks, making professional laser treatments safer overall.

Accessibility and cost 

One undeniable advantage of at-home devices is their accessibility. They offer the convenience of hair removal whenever you prefer without the need to schedule multiple appointments.

But this convenience comes at the cost of effectiveness. Due to their limited power, at-home devices require multiple sessions compared to professional treatments.

Why professional laser hair removal tops an at-home device

When it comes to safety and effectiveness, nothing beats the expertise of a trained professional using high-grade equipment. Here’s a look at the reasons you should talk to us about our FDA-approved laser treatments: 

Precision and efficiency

We use advanced lasers that target hair follicles more precisely, offering faster and more efficient treatments.

Customized treatment

Everyone's skin is different. We use laser settings tailored to your specific skin and hair type, ensuring optimal results.

Safety first

While at-home devices can be safe when used correctly, there's always a risk. Our providers are trained to minimize these risks, ensuring a safer treatment process.

Long-lasting results

With professional treatments, the results are often longer-lasting, meaning fewer sessions in the long run.

If you’re serious about laser hair removal, seek advice from us at Aesthetic Surgery and Dermatology of Cherry Creek. We can provide insight into the best course of action for your needs and help you make the most informed decision.  

Schedule a consultation online or over the phone at our Denver, Colorado, office to discuss the right type of laser hair removal treatment for your skin and needs.