Best home IPL laser hair removal round-up

Find your perfect at-home device with this round-up of my favourite tried-&-tested at-home laser and IPL hair removal devices for different body areas and budgets.

by | October 16, 2023

Hello! I'm Laura and I test at-home beauty devices to bring you fair and honest in-depth reviews at Wearebodybeautiful.com

Tried & tested for you…

Hi! I’m Laura. Home laser hair removal was life-changing for me. And now I’m hooked on testing and reviewing all the leading home devices so you can find your best-match device.

This roundup features the best performing, top-scoring at-home IPL devices from my tests. There’s something for all skin tones, budgets and body areas.

And, if you’re new to all this and want a quick overview of how at-home IPL and laser hair removal works, how to stay safe, and what results you can expect, that’s covered too.  Just scroll down a little further and off you go.

My top IPL recommendations

  1. Smoothskin Pure Fit - the easiest & fastest, best value premium IPL with a Worldwide guarantee
  2. Philips Lumea Prestige - most comfy & precise, it's superb quality
  3. Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 - fast & no faff, premium IPL
  1. Silk’n Infinity - fast & affordable, safe for ALL skin tones too
  2. Smoothskin Bare+ - simple, fast & affordable, for light to medium skin tones
Learn the pros and cons in this CurrentBody Skin at-home Radio Frequency review tried and tested by Wearebodybeautiful

A quick overiew…

About at-home Laser & IPL hair removal

"Fast, easy & safe sessions with a handheld light energy device used on shaved skin. The light energy zaps your hair follicles, creating heat which slows and reduces your hair growth leaving your skin silky-smooth & fuzz-free."

Top brands: SmoothSkin, Philips, Braun, Silk’n, Sensica, JOVS

Hair reduction & removal with powerful light energy

Women: cheekbones & down

Men: neck & down

Safe skin tones

Light to dark skin

Fitzpatrick skin tone chart showing it's safe for tones I to V, but not VI (the darkest).

Works on

Dark hair

This device works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

💰💰 to
💰💰💰💰💰

Based on in-clinic treatments

WHAT IS IT?

There are two types of intense light energy for hair removal; laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Both zap one or several specific wavelengths of powerful light on your skin surface, which reach down to your hair follicles.

Lasers are a single wavelength with a beam focused on a small area.

IPL is the most common at-home technology. It flashes several specific wavelengths of light from a Xenon bulb onto a much larger surface area than a laser.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Dark hairs contain a pigment called melanin. This pigment absorbs photons from several wavelengths of intense light energy ranging from 600nm to 1100nm. The light energy converts to heat. This heat damages key areas of your follicle, which then stunts your hair growth. Science calls this process photo thermolysis and you can learn more about it all here.

Your skin also contains melanin. Medium and dark skin tones have more than fair tones, so you must use less intense energy levels, or special devices for dark and black skin tones.

If you have light hair that's light blond, red, grey or white, most at-home devices won't work for you. But there are a couple of options that work on fair hair.

WHAT DOES IT DO?

The hair follicle is a pocket in your skin which builds your hair shaft and controls your hair growth cycle. The aim is to damage key cells during the active Anagen stage to stop your hair growth cycle permanently.

First, the intense light energy heats all areas with melanin pigment. And the heat created here is enough to damage the hair growth controlling cells next to them…

A good dose of heat damages the Matrix keratinocytes in the hair bulb. Your hairs then skip the growth stage, become stunted, and fall out (Catagen). It’s typically fast & effective in at-home devices, so most see reduction results within a few sessions.

Less heat reaches the dermal papilla fibroblasts in the bulb and the epithelial stem cells in the hair bulge. But, complete all the start-up sessions and several top-ups, and the damage compounds. The cells eventually chemically breakdown, and so can’t trigger a new growth cycle in your follicle. The damage is irreversible for most people. This gives long-lasting hair removal. There's more detail here.

EVIDENCE

Scientists discovered the hair reduction effects of intense light energy back in the 1970s. Manufacturers then researched and perfected the technology over the next 20 years. The first laser and IPL hair removal procedures were available to the public in the late 1990s. Since then, hundreds of robust clinical studies have led to improvements in patient safety, comfort and results.

At-home devices first came to market after 2003. They are much smaller, less powerful, and with simplified controls. But a few clinical studies show they are safe and they work.

The FDA indicates cleared at-home devices for the “removal of unwanted hair.” And “for the permanent reduction in hair regrowth, defined as the long term, stable reduction in the number of hairs regrowing when measured at 6, 9 and 12 months after the completion of a treatment regime.”

Learn even more detail in Laser & IPL hair removal 101.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Key checks ✔️

Before you buy a home use device, check:

  • You match the safe skin tones & dark hair colours per device
  • You’re not pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You’ve not recently sun tanned or used tanning creams
  • You’re an adult. Some brands say over 16 and others over 18

Do a skin sensitivity test according to the user manual before you do a full session.

Body areas to avoid ❌

Don't use the laser or IPL device on or around:

  • Male beard
  • Nipples, genitals or around the anus
  • Ears or around eyes / eyebrows
  • Dark brown or black spots such as birthmarks, moles or warts
  • Varicose veins
  • Damaged skin e.g. sunburns, cuts, open wounds or active infections, cold sores etc
  • Tattoos or permanent make-up
  • Active implants such as pacemaker, neurostimulator, insulin pump or over silicone implants
  • Areas you use long-lasting deodorants

Medical History

Don’t use it if you have a medical history of:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • History of skin cancer or pre-cancerous lesions
  • Radiation therapy or chemotherapy in the past 3 months
  • Surgery in treatment area in the last 3 weeks
  • Chronic skin disease e.g. psoriasis or vitiligo
  • A skin peel (within different time frames given)
  • Conditions such as diabetes, congestive heart disease, history of keloid scars or poor wound healing, epilepsy with flashlight sensitivity, bleeding disorder, immunosuppressive disease including HIV or AIDS

Medications

Don’t use if you’re taking or have recently taken these medications:

  • Painkillers, which reduce sensitivity to heat
  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Anticoagulation medications
  • Medications which make you sensitive to light e.g. Retin A, isotretinoin Accutane or other topical retinoids

Always check your medication instruction leaflet to see if photosensitivity is a listed side effect.

What's at-home IPL & Laser hair removal like?

Listed below is some helpful, common information about IPL and laser hair removal informed by my extensive research and tests. It will help you to understand what to expect. However, you must always read the user manual to check how to use your chosen device in detail!

I

Ease of use

  • Always shave first (unless there's no hair left)
  • Match the IPL intensity to your skin tone (some do this for you)
  • Cover your skin in flashes
  • Tricky areas are backs of legs, shoulders, back & extended bikini line.
  • A warm to hot sensation
  • Can sting on sensitive areas
  • Laser hurts more for some
  • Sometimes you'll smell burning hair!
  • Hot, red, tingly or itchy skin is common but temporary
  • Cover up to avoid sun exposure before & after your sessions.

Effort

Tyoically 20 to 40 mins a full body session.
(This is determined by the flash rate and how easy the device is to move around and operate).

Follow a start-up schedule followed by less regular top-ups.

Start-up: One session weekly for most devices. For between 4 to 12 weeks.
Maintenance: Then, monthly top-ups, or as you need them.

Top-ups are essential. If you stop, your hair may grow back.

You’ll need less frequent top-ups after you've done several months worth.

Results

See results from 2 to 3 sessions with softer, lighter, slower growing hairs.

Hair gradually becomes sparser.

After 5 to 6 sessions, most see light regrowth and large bald patches. Shaving is very easy, or you may not even need to!

Continue until smooth.

Maintain your smooth skin with monthly top-ups.

After several top-ups, you’ll stay smooth for many months.

Results vary. You may see:

✔️ Totally smooth fuzz-free skin OR slow, fine & light regrowth so shaving is infrequent

✔️ No more shaving rash or bumps

✔️ Regrowth black dots disappear

✔️ No more scratchy armpit or bikini line stubble

✔️ Itchy and unsightly ingrown hairs quickly disappear

1. SmoothSkin Pure Fit

"The easiest & fastest, best value premium at-home IPL"

Smoothskin Pure Best ultrafast & value premium IPL

4.9 / 5

Face, small bits, legs & large areas

💰💰💰

Worldwide 90-day money back guarantee

Safe Fitzpatrick skin tone range:

Fitzpatrick skin tone chart showing it's safe for tones I to V, but not VI (the darkest).

Hair colours it works on:

This device works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

Pure video review

Learn the pros & cons of the Smoothskin Pure at-home IPL in this no-waffle 5-minute video review.

Smoothskin Pure Fit deals

I earn a small commission when you shop via my links. Thank you for your support!

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

👉 Check the links below for special prices and discounts.

BODYBEAUT

Use this code at CurrentBody for an extra discount on SmoothSkin!

🇬🇧 UK

🇩🇪 Deutschland

🇺🇸 United States

🇨🇦 Canada

🇦🇺 Australia

CurrentBody AU:
Smoothskin Pure Fit
Shavershop AU:
Smoothskin Pure

🌏 International

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Clinically proven Smoothskin IPL technology

I tested the Smoothskin Pure on my whole-body (full legs, extended bikini line, underarms and face) over several months. It's my number 1 recommendations because it’s handsome, powerful, and the easiest and fastest device I’ve tested. For me, it’s the best value premium home IPL you can buy, and with my special discount code too! (See below.)

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

In the Smoothskin Pure Fit kit…

Here's why I rate it...

Striking good looks & strength

I love the stand-out glossy-black design with classy gold trim. And the simple controls that blend in with the understated styling. It’s compact, lightweight, and balanced.

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Glossy-black & striking

The curves fit comfortably in hand with a couple intuitive grips depending on which body area you’re zapping. And the rounded, angled handle keeps the power cord out of the way as you work.

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Comfy, intuitive grips & clever skin tone sensor

It’s sturdy and well-made with smooth joins. The 2-metre-long thick and durable power cable is fixed into the handle for extra durability. And it’s the only high-power home IPL to give you unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. I love this superb value because you’ll never run out for decades of smooth results.

Powerful & clever

The Pure is one of the most powerful home devices. So, it combines this power with clever sensor technology and three treatments modes. It’s very simple and safe to use. It works like this…

It won’t flash if your skin is too dark. But on safe tones in power mode it auto-adjusts the strongest and safest intensity level for your skin. It does this before EVERY flash so you don’t have to stop and check. It’s fool-proof across body areas with varied skin tones.

The IPL intensity range is 3 to 6 J/cm² in small increments. The higher intensities are safe for fair skin, and the lower intensities for darker tones. And with 10 intensity levels (double most other rival IPL devices) each IPL flash more precisely matches to your skin tone. But if the flashes sting, just press the mode button once for softer IPL flashes in gentle mode. This helps on bikini line and other sensitive areas.

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Gentle mode for stingy bits!

The fasetst device I’ve tested

And, of course you don’t want to spend ages zapping your pins, right? No worries, speed mode has the fastest flash rate of all home IPLs for a smooth glide over your skin. I love speed mode for lmy legs ⚡🦵❤ – it takes just 7 minutes per full leg!

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Speed mode for your pins!

And I can zap my whole body (full legs, underarms, bikini line and face) in just 19 minutes. I use standard or gentle mode for more stubborn hair on the chin, bikini line and underarms. The Pure gets sessions done before you get bored or tired. Top marks.

Negatives with the Pure

Just some minor criticisms with the Pure. Here goes.

First, although I find the shape easy to get a flash on my upper lip, it is a bit faffy to get a flash on knees, ankles, shins and toes. It’s the same with most rival devices too. I find rotating the flash window 90° or 45° helps better line-up along the contours in these areas. Or you can add the precision attachment which makes it easier too.

Second, the air vents on the underside sometimes have breathing difficulties. If you rest the Pure on a soft surface like a carpet or bed, it blocks the vents. This causes the fan to work extra hard, the Pure to heat up, and the flashes slow down. It’s simple to avoid this issue though. Just rest the device on its back or side, or place it on a hard surface.

And then I get a bit clammy during my sessions 😅. This obviously isn’t the Pure’s fault, but his delicious glossy exterior shows every single grubby fingerprint I leave on it. Therefore, remember to rub him down with a cloth when you’re done, so he looks pretty for next time.

And of course, it’s pricey. But it is the most affordable and best value of the premium models. I think it’s a steal.

Super-smooth results & guaranteed

Shave immediately before each session, unless there’s no hair left. And try dermaplaning if you don’t want to shave your face.

Smoothskin guidelines say do a treatment once a week for up to 12 sessions. Then switch to top-ups every 4 to 8 weeks. Results can vary by individual. Find out why and how here.

The Smoothskin Pure Fit is an at-home Intense Pulsed Light device. It uses powerful light energy which damages your hair follicles with heat. The IPL intensity range is powerful from 3 to 6 J/cm2 and you get unlimited flashes from the IPL bulb. It also matches and selects the best IPL intensity for your skin tone, and has power, gentle and speed mode too. The device is clinically proven safe and effective.

Thorough start-up so results last the longest

Most people notice slower and softer growing hair after two or three sessions. Then, significant hair reduction results after six sessions. Complete all twelve sessions so each session keeps you smoother for longer. And don’t forget your top-ups! They’re as important as the start-up stage for long lasting smooth skin!

The Pure also comes with a Worldwide 90-day money-back guarantee. Try it and return it if you don’t love it. I ❤ this extra reassurance that only a few brands offer. But Smoothskin's is awesome because it's the only International money-back guarantee . Well done Smoothskin.

SmoothSkin Pure Fit Review Summary

I think the Pure Fit is the best value premium at-home IPL hair removal device. That’s because sessions are the fastest and it’s just so darned easy. And with a worldwide 90-day money-back guarantee too.

Here's a quick summary round-up of my test scores, and pros and cons to help you decide...

The Pure is the best value premium at-home IPL hair removal device beacuse sessions are fast and it’s just so darned easy.
Lamp lifetime

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

Unlimited IPL flashes so you’ll never run out. Superb, and the best of the best for value.

Ease of use

👍👍👍👍👍

Auto-adjusts the IPL to match your skin tone before every flash. Light-weight & handy, with power, gentle & speed modes for extra control. And with a small precision window for easy flashes everywhere.  The fastest and easiest high-power home IPL for no-faff sessions, done in a jiffy.

Effort & Results

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Up to 12 weekly sessions for long-lasting hair-free results, then top-ups 4 to 8 weeks keep it so. A fast & low effort device.

Pros

  • Excellent quality
  • Handsome, handy, lightweight & comfy
  • Powerful IPL auto-adjusts to your skin tone, so it's fool-proof & super-safe
  • Gentle mode for stingy bits
  • Fastest sessions, with speed mode for legs
  • Easy flashes with a precision window for tricky areas
  • Clinically-proven, UKCA and CE certified, & FDA cleared
  • The only with a Worldwide money-back guarantee (90-days)

Cons

  • Easy to accidentally cover the air vents
  • Shows fingerprints & smudges
  • Expensive (but the best value of the premium IPLs!)

You can learn even more about the Pure Fit here. Or see how the Pure compares to the very popular Braun Pro 5 IPL. However, if you’re sold already, you can try it with a 90-day money-back guarantee by shopping through my links. I earn a small commission, but your price stays the same. Oh, and there’s a special discount code too, just for you.

2. Philips Lumea Prestige

"The most comfy & precise home IPL, and my overall favourite."

Philips Lumea Prestige best overall home IPL

4.8 / 5

Face, small bits, legs & large areas

💰💰💰💰

UK 100-day money back guarantee

Safe Fitzpatrick skin tone range:

Fitzpatrick skin tone chart showing it's safe for tones I to V, but not VI (the darkest).

Hair colours it works on:

Works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

Prestige video review

Learn the pros & cons about the Philips Lumea Prestige at-home IPL in this 5-minute video review.

Philips Lumea Prestige deals

I earn a small commission when you shop via my links. Thank you for your support!

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

👉 Check the links below for special prices and discounts.

I tested the Lumea Prestige on my whole-body (full legs, extended bikini line, underarms and face) over several months. It’s my favourite home IPL device because it’s superb quality, fast and easy, and the most precise and comfy device I’ve tested. Here’s a bit more!

Intuitive, refined & long-lasting

The Philips Lumea Prestige is good-looking, sturdy, solid and refined. And although fairly large and weighty, the ergonomic gun-shape is easy to manoeuvre, intuitive to position and very comfortable to hold. Only a few rivals come close to this exceptional build and feel.

The flashes last for 15+ years of monthly full body sessions. That’s way more then you’ll need to get and stay smooth. It’s one of the best and a super long-lasting investment.

Powerful, safe & total control

3 images showing how the Smartskin sensor works. The magnify glass button activates the sensor, the 1 to 5 intensity level indicators illuminate white in a round as it works. The 'tick' button lights-up white once it is done along with the maximum appropriate intensity indicators. Press the 'tick' button to choose it.

The Prestige has 5 intensity levels and it operates at higher IPL power than other devices (from 2.5 to 6 .5 J/cm²). The low intensities are safe for darker and the higher for light skin tones. This means if you can safely use the higher intensities, it gives you longer-lasting results than less powerful choices.

This power is balanced with a clever skin tone sensor to keep you safe. It checks then suggests the highest and safest intensity setting for your skin. You can still adjust it down a notch if you need.

And for smaller or harder to reach areas, switch to cordless operation. Simply remove the cord and use it on your face (or more intimate areas) in the privacy of your bathroom. The battery lasts for around 30 minutes.

p

TIP: The flashes are slower used cordless so use it corded on larger areas like legs.

Curved windows & fast

The Prestige is one of the fastest high-power home IPL devices. I can finish a full leg in under 10 minutes and a full body in around 40 minutes (and I am incredibly thorough). The flash repetition rate is perfect to glide over your skin but still get precise coverage.

And, in combination with the curved flash windows, gliding over your full body is a doddle.

The different curves snuggly fit the contours of your curvy bikini line, underarms and legs. This reduces faff trying to get close contact on bumpy or awkward surfaces. It’s easy to get a flash and perfect coverage with no missed bits as you glide over your skin. I love these attachments, especially on legs and torso.

The flash windows you get are different by Prestige model – learn more here.

Negatives of Lumea Prestige

There’s not much to dislike about the Philips Lumea Prestige. As mentioned above, it’s weighty (560g) because of the rechargeable battery inside. But sessions are fast so it doesn’t get tiresome.

It’s not yet FDA-cleared in the United States. However, it is clinically -proven safe and effective for home use. It also meets all the European safety and manufacturing standards, and some voluntary standards too. It’s CE certified, so rest assured it’s safe and it works.

The price tag may put some off. If that’s the case and you can forego the cordless operation and curved flash windows, the Smoothskin Pure is a cheaper premium option. 

Superb smooth results

Shave immediately before each session, unless there’s no hair left. And try dermaplaning if you don’t want to shave your face.

Philips say you’ll need 4 to 5 treatments once every 2 weeks to see significant hair reduction. Then less frequent touch-up sessions keep your skin smooth. Most online feedback supports this as did our trial, but results do vary by individual.

In my test, hair grew slower after just the first use. With the second session hair was softer and finer with bald patches. These increased after the third and by the fourth treatment skin was smooth almost all over.

I then did top-ups religiously every 4 weeks. After about 8 in total, I reduced them to every 8 weeks. I now do one every 3 months and I’m still perfectly smooth on legs, bikini and underarms. And with no painful ingrown hairs!

You also get a UK 100-day money back guarantee from Philips too. This is the longest manufacturer guarantee around and superb peace of mind.

Philips Lumea Prestige Review Summary

I think the Philips Lumea Prestige is a top-notch at-home IPL hair removal device - it's my favourite. That's because of the low to high IPL intensity, intuitive gun-shape, easy-flash windows, fast yet precise sessions, cordless option and clever sensor. It's superb quality and comes with a UK 100-day money back guarantee too.

Here's a quick summary round-up of my test scores, and pros and cons to help you decide...

The Philips Lumea Prestige is my favourite at-home IPL because it's got all the best features and it's comfy and precise to use.
Lamp lifetime

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

More flashes than you’ll ever need, lasting 15+ years of use. It’s one of the best.

Ease of use

👍👍👍👍👍

Very intuitive, and the most comfortable and precise home IPL I’ve tested, if a little heavy. Easy flashes with the curved windows. Use it fast on mains-power or cordless on small areas in your bathroom.

Effort & Results

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Long-lasting smooth after 4 to 5 sessions (1 every 2 weeks), plus top-ups every month or so. A low effort device.

Pros

  • Superb quailty
  • Most comfy gun-shape
  • Easy-flash precise curved windows hug your skin
  • Corded for fast but precise legs
  • Cordless for small tricky areas
  • Powerful, safe & fast
  • Clinically-proven & CE certification
  • UK 100-day money back guarantee

Cons

  • It’s quite big & heavy
  • Expensive at full RRP
  • Not yet FDA-cleared in US

If you need more info, check out the full Lumea Prestige review. But if you’ve found this review helpful and are ready to buy, please support my reviews and shop via my links. I earn a small commission, but your price stays the same. I really appreciate your support 🙏!

3. Braun Pro 5 IPL

"Fast & no-faff premium at-home IPL hair removal device"

The Braun Pro 5 IPL is safe for light to dark skin tones Fitpatrick types I to V

4.7 / 5

Face, small bits, legs & large areas

💰💰💰

UK 100-day money back guarantee

Safe Fitzpatrick skin tone range:

Fitzpatrick skin tone chart showing it's safe for tones I to V, but not VI (the darkest).

Hair colours it works on:

Works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

Braun Pro 5 video review

Learn the pros & cons of the Braun Pro 5 IPL at-home IPL in this quick and concise 5-minute video review.

Braun Pro 5 IPL deals

I earn a small commission when you shop via my links. Thank you for your support!

Hell’s fire! There are rather a lot of Pro 5 IPL models. Each has a nice storage case, Venus razor, standard and precision flash window (excluding PL5014). Some then have additional flash windows too. See the options below 👇. You can also check out this Braun Pro 5 IPL models comparison review.

4x heads: 
Standard, 2x precision & wide

3x heads: 
Standard, precision & wide

2x heads:
Standard & precision

1x head:
Standard head only

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

👉 Check the links below for special prices and discounts.

BODY5

Use this code at CurrentBody for an extra discount!

I tested the Braun Pro 5 IPL on my whole-body (full legs, extended bikini line, underarms and face) over several sessions. It’s a top choice I recommend because it’s excellent quality, fast and straight-forward for no-faff sessions. Learn more about it below.

Quality, compact & lightweight

The Braun Pro 5 IPL is compact, lightweight (Just 285g) & nimble, fits snug in hand

The elegant Braun Pro 5 IPL feels quality and robust. It’s small and lightweight so fits perfectly in your hand. Once you find your most comfortable grips it’s easy to manoeuvre with no strain as you zap away. The thick, bendy 2-metre power cord gives loads of slack and the curved handle keeps it out of the way.

The flashes last more than 15+ years of monthly full body sessions. That’s way more than you’ll ever need to get and stay smooth.

Powerful, super-safe & simple

The Pro 5 is powerful, with intensities ranging from 3 to 6 J/cm2. So, if you’ve got fair skin and can safely use the higher intensities, you’ll get longer-lasting hair reduction results compared to less powerful rivals. The lower intensities are safe for darker skin tones up to type V.

The Braun Pro 5 IPL's advanced blue sensor checks your skin tone before every flash but won't flash and with a red strip light if the tone is too dark.

So, with this powerful IPL it’s crucial you select a safe intensity for your skin tone. But Braun have that covered with a super-safe & foolproof automatic skin tone sensor. First, it scans your skin and won’t flash if it’s too dark. Then, if it’s safe, it selects the most powerful and safe intensity before every flash. So, you can’t make a mistake.

It also chooses from 10 IPL increments, that’s double that of most rival devices. So, each pulse is perfectly balanced and more precisely matches your skin tone.  It’s ace if you’ve got varied tones across body parts. No need to stop, faff and check! Just plug it in and off you go.

The Braun Pro 5 IPL has white lights 1 to 10 on the side, to show the intensity selected. If it smarts too much press the feather button on top to reduce the intensity.

And if it stings a bit on your bikini or underarms, press the feather button to reduce the intensity in gentle and extra gentle mode.

Fast & precision for face

The flash bulb is supercharged so the flashes are fast.

The light-weight, compact and easy to manoeuvre design works very well with the speed. On the higher intensities I can flash a full leg in around 9 minutes. And my full body in around 28 minutes. It’s one of the fastest high-power home IPLs I’ve tested.

A comparison of the 2 interchangeable flash windows. There;s a small, tapered, white precision attachment and large gold body attachment.

Getting a flash on smaller, curvy areas like your upperlip and jawline is a bit tricky. So, there’s a smaller precision flash window too which makes it easier to flash. It’s perfect for other awkward areas like fingers, toes, and ankles too. (N.B. the PL5014 model doesn’t have the precision attachment).

The Braun Pro 5 IPL negatives

Just a few niggles from me. I love the fast flashes but sometime the flash rate is unpredictable. It depends on how close the sensors are to your skin and the higher or lower intensity level it flashes. So, you can either glide it too far or not far enough in between flashes. It takes just a bit of getting used to, especially if you’re used to a slower IPL machine.

And finally, the Braun Pro 5 IPL is expensive. It’s worth comparing prices with the similar but slightly cheaper Smoothskin Pure. Both are high-power IPL choices and solid investments for decades of smooth skin.

Excellent silky results

Shave immediately before each session, unless there’s no hair left. And try dermaplaning if you don’t want to shave your face.

Braun guidelines say you’ll need between 4 to 12 weekly treatments to see significant hair reduction. Once you’re smooth do less frequent top-ups every 1 or 2 months. The majority online feedback supports this as did our trial, but results do vary by individual.

Our tester noticed slower leg hair growth after 2 sessions. It got softer and lighter after session 3. They had big, smooth hairless patches after 5 sessions which made shaving super quick and without ouchie razor bumps. After 6 sessions there was very little hair left.

So far they say...

“I’ve now done 6 sessions and 3 top-ups 1 month apart. At first, I’d notice some hairs around tops of my ankles. So, I shaved and flashed them and now they’re no more. I’ll keep going and try dropping the top ups to every 6 weeks. I’m smooth and shaving-rash free in time for Summer. I can’t wait to get my legs out!”

Braun Pro 5 IPL Review Summary

The Braun Pro 5 is a popular and solid choice because it’s quality, straightforward, fast and very easy to flash.  

Here's a quick summary round-up of my test scores, and pros and cons to help you decide...

The Braun Pro 5 is a popular choice because it’s quality, straightforward, fast and very easy to flash.
Lamp lifetime

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

One of the best with IPL flashes lasting 15+ years of monthly use.

Ease of use

👍👍👍👍👍

Fast, light-weight & nimble. Perfectly balanced safety & power in every flash. Large, medium and precision flash windows to fit different body areas. Straight-forward, no-faff sessions.

Effort & Results

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Silky skin after 4 to 12 weekly sessions, then top-ups every month or so to stay smooth. A low effort device.

Pros

  • Excellent quality
  • Compact lightweight & elegant
  • Powerful IPL auto-adjusts to your skin tone
  • Gentle & extra gentle mode for stingy bits and extra control!
  • Very easy to flash all round your body
  • Fast sessions – one of the best
  • Small precision flash window for upper lip
  • Clinically proven, CE certification & FDA-cleared
  • 100-day UK & 90-day Australia money back guarantees

Cons

  • Getting used to the variable speed flashes
  • Expensive at full RRP, but offers are common

If you want more photos and information on the Braun Pro 5 IPL, check out the full review here. Or see how the Pro 5 compares to the Lumea Prestige. But if you’ve decided on the Pro 5, awesome choice 👊! Money back guarantees are available in the UK and Australia. Please support these reviews and shop via my links. I earn a small commission, but your price stays the same.

4. Silk’n Infinity

"Fast & affordable at-home IPL hair removal device that’s safe for ALL skin tones."

Silk'n Infinity best home IPl safe for dark & black skin

4.4 / 5

Face, small bits, legs & large areas

💰💰 to 💰💰💰💰

US & Canada 60-day money back guarantee

Safe for ALL Fitzpatrick skin tones:

Colour swatches of the 6 Fitzpatrick skin tones from light (I) to darkest (IV)

Hair colours it works on:

Works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

Infinity video review

Learn the pros & cons of the Silk’n Infinity at-home IPL in this quick but comprehensive 5-minute video review.

Silk’n Infinity deals

I earn a small commission when you shop via my links. Thank you for your support!

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

👉 Check the links below for special prices and discounts.

BODY5

Use this code at CurrentBody for an extra discount!

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I tested the Silk’n Infinity on my whole-body (full legs, extended bikini line, underarms and face) over several sessions. It’s an affordable choice that’s fast (just a tad slower than the premium models), and also safe for all tones, including dark and black tones. Keep reading for more!

Long-lasting simple design

The Infinity models boast 15+ years of monthly whole-body sessions from the IPL bulb. That’s more than you’ll ever need. And Silk’n encourage you to share it too. One model even comes with a hygienic cleansing stand so it’s safe to share with friends and family.

Close ip shots on the Silk'n Infinity at-home IPL device showing the neat design, power cable, flash window and power intensity select button.

The build and materials are decent too, with a 180cm power cable that fits snug in the device. The design is simple and curvy, like a large pebble. It’s comfortable to grip as you press the large flash button. And lightweight too, so it’s easy enough to manoeuvre around your body. The controls are simple and intuitive, tucked away on the bottom of the device.

The design is basic so don’t expect multiple flash windows or a fancy ergonomic shape. But don’t underestimate it either. Because there’s some clever tech inside.

Safe for dark & black skin

The Infinity is safe for dark and black skin because it uses much gentler IPL than other devices, and combines it with Galvanic current.

q

IMPORTANT:  Silk’n in the US and Canada don’t promote the Infinity safe for the darkest and black skin tones. That’s because it’s FDA-cleared for Fitzpatrick types I to V, but NOT the darkest type VI.

The Galvanic current is painless and flows through your skin opening your pores. Therefore, your hair is more exposed and so absorbs increased IPL energy for super-efficient follicle zapping power. This means it can use much gentler (but still effective) IPL, that reduces the risk of stinging and side effects, and is safe for dark and black skin too. Learn more here including the Infinity clinical test data and important differences in the US.

The intensity selector wheel illuminating up to level 2. Levels 1 and 2 of the Infinity are safe for dark and black skin.

The Infinity has 5 intensity levels. Levels 3 to 5 are more intense (up to 4 J/cm2) and safe for light/medium skin. And levels 1 & 2 are gentle IPL (3 J/cm2) safe for dark and black skin. And to make sure you choose the right intensity the clever skin tone sensor checks your tone and activates only the safe intensity levels.

Fast sessions

I can finish a full leg on intensity 5 in around 12 minutes (it’s slightly faster on the lower intensities 1 and 2). The glide rate is steady, and sessions are quick. Therefore, it’s super for both small areas and full-body treatments or large areas done in one session.

Negatives

First, the business-end of the Infinity is a bit bulky compared to the size of the flash window.

The business-end on the Silkn Infinity is a little bulky, so it's tricky to position and flash on small and bumpy areas such as your upperlip and jawline.

This means it’s not as precise as say the Lumea Prestige or Smoothskin Pure. Therefore, it’s a bit awkward on the upper lip and around the jaw line. It takes a bit of practise to get a flash but you get the hang of it soon enough.

Next, the guidance on safe skin tones differs in the US which is a bit confusing. That’s because it’s FDA cleared for skin tones up to type V, but not VI. Learn more about the Infinity and FDA clearance here.

Silk’n Europe previously said the Infinity works on fair hair colours including blonde, red and grey (if the skin/hair colour contrast is big enough). However, they gave no explanation on how it works. This claim is no longer prominent on their website. Silk’n US say it may work on fair hair, if there’s enough dark pigment. So, it’s a bit of a gamble.

Light to medium skin tones results

Shave immediately before each session, and inbetween as you need, unless there’s no hair left. And try dermaplaning if you don’t want to shave your face.

For lighter skin tones using the higher intensities (4 and 5) do four sessions, one every 2 weeks (6 weeks total). You should then be smooth so switch to monthly sessions and keep going until you can reduce the frequency even more. Most online feedback supports this as did our trial, but results do vary by individual.

In our test (on light skin), leg hair grew slower after the second session. After three, there was less hair. And it felt softer, finer and lighter. Large bald spots appeared until after 4 sessions there were just a few patches of hair left. Our tester did another 5th session after 2 weeks and then was totally smooth. They then switched to sessions every 4 weeks.

They’ve now done x5 monthly top-up sessions. They share...

“An occasional soft hair appears until zapped, then disappears. So, my legs are fuzz-free and smooth. The top-ups are no bother because they’re quick, and are worth it to stay smooth. I’ll try doing them every 6 or 8 weeks after I’ve finished a few more”.

Dark skin tones results

For dark and black skin tones using lower intensities (1 to 3) a Silk’n study shows you’ll need many more sessions. Silk’n recommend up to 12 sessions at 2-week intervals to get smooth (around 5 months). Then, switch to top-ups as you need them. So, on the lower intensity levels it’s important you have realistic expectations about the effort, patience and commitment needed to get results.

If you live in the US or Canada, you can try it for 60 days with their money back guarantee. Yay. I love this extra reassurance. But if you live in the UK or Europe, no such luck because they don’t offer a money back guarantee. Boo.

I love the hard storage case you get with the Silkn infinity. Everything fits safe and snug in the protective storage case. A nice touch.

If you demand the best and have a bit more to spend, check out the Lumea PrestigeSmoothskin Pure and Braun Pro 5 IPL. These devices are top quality with premium features, safe for skin tones I to V. But if they’re out of your budget don’t worry. The Infinity is a super-value choice from a trusted brand, with regular offers around £200.

Silk'n Infinity Summary

Yup, the Infinity is rather special because sessions are quick, and the clever, combined technology means it’s gentle and safe for the darkest skin tones too. 

Here’s a quick summary round-up of my test scores, and pros and cons to help you decide.

The Infinity is rather special because sessions are quick, and the clever, combined technology means it’s gentle and safe for the darkest skin tones too.
Lamp lifetime

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

It’s superb value with flashes to last 15+ years of use. One of the best.

Ease of use

👍👍👍👍

Simple, light-weight, a tad bulky but comfy design. Clever skin tone sensor detects darker tones and activates only the lower, safe intensities.

Effort & Results

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Results take longer on dark skin using the lower intensities. Do up to 12 sessions, one every 2 weeks. Then switch to top-ups every few weeks to a month, to stay smooth. 

Pros

  • Fast & affordable
  • Safe for ALL skin tones including dark & black
  • Gentle IPL for painless sessions
  • Level 1 intensity safe for tanned skin
  • Clinically-proven, FDA-cleared & CE certification
  • 60-day money back guarantee in the US & Canada

Cons

  • Not FDA-cleared in the US for black skin
  • Tricky on upper lip
  • No money back guarantee in the UK & Europe

If you want even more info and photos check out the full Infinity review here. But if you’ve found this review helpful and are ready to buy, please support my reviews and shop via my links. I earn a small commission, but your price stays the same. I really appreciate your support 🙏!

5. Smoothskin Bare+ IPL

"Fast & affordable at-home IPL hair removal device for light to medium skin tones."

Smoothskin Bare+ best fast & affordable home IPL

4.4 / 5

Face, small bits, legs & large areas

💰💰

Worldwide 90-day money back guarantee

Safe Fitzpatrick skin tone range:

Fitzpatrick skin tone chart showing it's safe for tones I to IV, but not V and VI (the darkest tones).

Hair colours it works on:

Works on black, dark brown, mid-brown and dark blonde body hair colours. Doesn't work on light blonde, red, white or gray body hair colours.

Bare+ video review

Learn the pros & cons of the Smoothskin Bare+ at-home IPL in this informative 5-minute video review.

Smoothskin Bare+ deals

I earn a small commission when you shop via my links. Thank you for your support!

OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

👉 Check the links below for special prices and discounts.

BODYBEAUT

Use this code at CurrentBody for an extra discount on SmoothSkin!

🇬🇧 UK

🇩🇪 Deutschland

🇺🇸 United States

🇨🇦 Canada

🇦🇺 Australia

CurrentBody:
Smoothskin Bare+
Shavershop AU:
Smoothskin Bare+

🌏 International

I tested the Smoothskin Bare+ on my whole-body (full legs, extended bikini line, underarms and face) over several months. And what a little beauty! It’s a quality bit of kit. And I love the speed and simplicity of this little badger – he rivals some of the premium choices. Here’s more about him…

Simplicity, safety & speed

The Bare+ home IPL from Smoothskin is Most compact, handy & simple home IPL I've tested

Don’t let the affordable, simple and compact Smoothskin Bare+ fool you. It’s got a lot going for it, and I think it rivals even the premium alternatives.

First, it gives unlimited IPL flashes. Therefore, no worries about running out or buying expensive refills. It’ll give decades of silky-smooth skin and is exceptional value.

Second, it’s a handy little thing. The cute, curvy shape is light (197g) and fits perfectly in your hand. It’s the most compact device we’ve tested. Yet it also feels quality and robust, like its more expensive rivals. The 2-metre power cord is thick, bendy and gives plenty of slack.

Next, there are no dials, no charts, it’s so simple to use. It has one medium power intensity level (4 J/cm2) for long-lasting smooth skin. And there’s just a single, large flash button. So, it’s incredibly straight-forward. Simply plugin, position and zap! It’s safe for light to medium skin tones, with a skin tone sensor that won’t flash if skin’s too dark.

The indicator light around the flash button on the Smoothskin Bare+ shows red if your skin is too dar (and it won't flash on your skin). It shows white if your skin is safe and it has good contact.

You may need slightly more frequent top-ups to start than with more powerful rivals. But that’ll hardly matter because the sessions are so darn fast! In our tests, a full leg takes about 11 minutes and a whole-body just under 30 minutes. It’s one of the fastest home devices, so easier to squeeze in your busy schedule.

Negatives of the Bare+

There are just a few small negatives with the Bare+.

First, I find it tricky to flash on shins, ankles and upper-lip. Other devices share this problem too, and take just a bit of practise to work out the best way.

The fixed power cable on the Smoothskin Bare+ is top quality, supple and long. It sometimes gets in the way, but it doesn't tangle.

Next, the power cord is thick and supple, and very good quality. However, it sometimes gets in the way, especially when flashing legs. Try to avoid the cord crossing over your body or, simply hold it out the way with your other hand.

And finally, I find the safe skin tone guidance a bit vague on the box. There’s a big leap between the medium safe tone and non-safe dark tone. Check out the charts above to be sure. However, rest assured it won’t flash if your skin’s too dark. Plus, you also get a reassuring 90-day money back guarantee. So, you can return it for a refund if it’s not right for you.

Quick smooth results

Shave immediately before each session, and inbetween as you need, unless there’s no hair left. And try dermaplaning if you don’t want to shave your face.

Treat weekly for noticeable results after 4 weeks. Keep going and complete 12 weekly sessions. Then switch to top-ups every 2 to 4 weeks. With the best possible results, you’ll need top-ups even less frequently over time. You may match this guide or need more sessions because results vary by individual.

Smoothskin Bare+ Review Summary

If you want something that does the job with minimum fuss (and a lower price tag) this cute little dude is super-simple, handy, fast and affordable.

Here's a quick summary round-up of my test scores, and pros and cons to help you decide...

If you want something that does the job with minimum fuss (and a lower price tag) Smoothskin Bare+ is super-simple, handy, fast and affordable.
Lamp lifetime

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

Unlimited IPL flashes so you’ll never run out. Superb value.

Ease of use

👍👍👍👍

No-frills compact, light-weight yet robust. Very comfortable & handy, fast, plugin-&-zap simplicity. Won’t flash if skin’s too dark. 

Effort & Results

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Medium power IPL for smooth results over the course of 12 sessions. Then switch to regular top-ups every 2 to 4 weeks. 

Pros

  • Affordable quality, light-weight & fast
  • Unlimited IPL flashes for decades of use
  • No faffing with intensity selection – one medium IPL level
  • Plugin-&-zap, one-button simplicity
  • Cute & recyclable packaging
  • Clinically proven, CE certification & FDA-cleared
  • Worldwide 90-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Cord sometimes gets in the way
  • Tricky to flash on shins, ankles & upper lip
  • No gentle mode so may smart a bit on darker skin tones

Check out more Bare+ info and photos here. And you can see how the Smoothskin Bare+ and premium Smoothskin Pure Fit compare here. But if you already know the Bare+ is perfect for you, please shop via my links. I earn a small commission, but your price stays the same. I really appreciate the support 🙏!

Laura Gladman
I'm a bit obsessed with at-home beauty devices. It's a habit I've had for around 9 years now. I love the science, testing and reviewing them, and sharing my experience and feedback on my site Wearebodybeautiful.com. I'm also a crazy dog lady, and I don't care.

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