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Buying used machines, sharing of equipment to offset high initial investments is a good option but even more care is required to ensure proper functioning and maintenance.
The credibility of the dealer and company should be ascertained in order to be assured of after-sales service.
Adequate training is essential; understanding laser physics and laser-tissue interaction goes a long way in getting the best out of the machine.
It is wise to sign a contract or agreement between the buyer and seller before purchase of a laser which covers key aspects of installation, after sales service and maintenance of the machine.
Meticulous planning of the type of machine, specifications, financial aspects, maintenance and warranties is important.
Lasers and aesthetic procedures have transformed dermatology practice. They have aided in the treatment of hitherto untreatable conditions and allowed better financial remuneration to the physician. The availability of a variety of laser devices of different makes, specifications and pricing has lead to confusion and dilemma in the mind of the buying physician. There are presently no guidelines available for buying a laser. Since purchase of a laser involves large investments, careful consideration to laser specifications, training, costing, warranty, availability of spares, and reliability of service are important prerequisites. This article describes various factors that are needed to be considered and also attempts to lay down criteria to be assessed while buying a laser system that will be useful to physicians before investing in a laser machine.
Lasers have become an integral part in today's aesthetic dermatology practice. With the advent of new technology, more sophisticated devices are being developed that are both relatively safe and effective even in darker skin types. With increasing number of machines being available to choose from, it has become a difficult and often confusing task for the physician to decide upon which system to buy. Multiple technologies such as lasers, lights and other non-light energy devices are available. Choosing a laser system, maintaining the machine and after-sales service, are all vital aspects to having a successful laser practice. Likewise machines from different companies and from different countries varying in specifications and cost are available, making it difficult for a practitioner to judge which one to buy. In addition, there is a lot of hype in the marketing and exaggerated promotional material used by the laser companies, each staking claims that their machine is the best. There is considerable ambiguity with regards to the post-sales maintenance policies including annual maintenance contracts (AMC) and annual service visit (ASV). Most purchasers are unaware of the type of insurance and other terms and conditions that need to be considered for their machines. The aim of this article is to focus on practical aspects before purchasing a laser.
Although it is often difficult to choose a machine, certain lasers are well established in dermatology practice and remain gold standard. The most commonly used laser systems include:
Diode laser 810 nm and long pulse Nd:YAG (Neodymium:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) laser nm for laser hair removal.[1]
Er:YAG (Erbium doped:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) nm and carbon dioxide (CO210,600 nm) ablative and fractional lasers for benign skin lesions, resurfacing and scars.[2,3]
Q switched Nd:YAG laser for pigmented lesions and tattoos.[4]
In addition other lasers which have found acceptance include non-ablative nm fractional erbium glass laser,[2]585 and 595 nm pulse dye laser for vascular lesions,[5] and excimer 308 nm laser and lamp for vitiligo and psoriasis. Intense pulse light systems and light-based targeted phototherapy machines also have their place in practice. These broad technologies have well-established roles. Choosing a laser system, between the available models in these technologies will depend on the variables such as pulse duration, spot size, energy and fluence, consumables and cost.
First and foremost, the buyer should learn basic laser physics, indications for lasers, different technologies and complications. These can be learnt either by attending workshops, symposia, at conferences and attending established laser centres. The physician should be aware of the prevalence of different dermatological and aesthetic problems in the community and then decide which laser would be most suitable for practice in that area. Patients' attitudes, paying capacity and marketing opportunities need to be assessed. While the choice of a laser system depends on individual situation, some general recommendations are outlined.
The first laser to be bought is either a hair removal laser or a fractional ablative laser. The wide prevalence of hirsutism, increased awareness among women, and wider acceptance of the technology has made the hair removal laser a necessity. However, some doctors have preferred a fractional laser as a first laser as many beauty clinics have started laser hair removal and there has been a proliferation of hair removal machines in some towns and cities. The ablative fractional laser is popular in view of its safety and wide variety of applications.
Q switched Nd:YAG laser for treating pigmented lesions is the next choice. The current nanosecond lasers have established their role, but the cost is high and hence the machine is usually the third choice.
Intense pulse light systems (IPL) are not lasers but polychromatic (multiple wavelength) light devices that use cut-off filters and allow targeting of different chromophores and have the advantage of treating different indications with one system. Although the IPL systems are cost-effective they are generally not as effective as laser systems.
Excimer lamp devices tend to be cheaper than the excimer 308 nm lasers and are quite effective in management of vitiligo and psoriasis. They can be considered as they are cost-effective, effective and safe in dark-skin patients.
Pulse dye laser and excimer lasers are expensive lasers, and are found in only few centres and hence will not be discussed further.
Laser systems are available either as stand-alone or platform systems. Stand-alone systems tend to be of single wavelength with one hand piece (HP) designed for specific purposes such as a long pulse alexandrite 755-nm laser for laser hair reduction. Platform systems have the ability to attach multiple hand pieces to the machine and have the ability to deal with various indications. The hand pieces could be a hair removal HP or an IPL HP for treating vascular lesions or even a near infra-red HP offering skin tightening treatments, etc. At any given time one or two HP can be attached to the system and can be changed as desired. The software of the system recognises the HP attached and the settings can thus be changed as needed. Each of these two systems has its advantages and disadvantages and these are enumerated in .
Stand-alone systems are obviously suited for large practices and established practitioners' with big budgets, while platforms are more suited for beginners or those with multiple clinics and if different doctors wish to share the machine.
Some basic knowledge of laser physics is essential before buying a machine. Laser training and understanding of the machine can be obtained in any of the below mentioned ways:
Becoming members of societies dedicated and focused on laser dermatology and attending their meetings and interacting with experienced users, listen to lectures, attend hands-on workshops, etc.
Educational and marketing material provided by the company.
Training provided by the company on the machine, observational and hands-on training with another expert or on-site.
Visit to the factory/headquarters of the parent organisation to access the commitment, research and development if and when possible. The buyer should check the company's website for details such as specifications, the scientific and white papers and testimonials.
Know the company: Before buying, the first thing to do is to identify the correct person or organisation or company, whether they are a company or act as Messer (M/s), whether they have registered their organisation/company under companies act/local body or not; what is their total strength of man power ; do they have the provision of provident fund (PF) account; do they have a website which provides full details; how many machines have they supplied; how long are they in business; how big is the company and do they market a wide variety of machines? These points can help ascertain if the company is genuine or not.
Once basic training is obtained, the suitability of a given machine should be judged as below:
Laser specifications: Spot size, pulse duration, peak power, customisation options etc- These are of utmost importance and are explained below:
A large spot size is preferable for laser hair removal.[ 1 ] A large spot size allows deeper penetration and allows faster treatments during the laser procedure. A spot size of 10-18 mm is available in conventional LHR systems. Newer low-fluence high repetition rate hair removal systems have even larger spot sizes.
High peak power and ultra short pulse for Q switched laser, Gaussian vs. top-hat beam profile. Top-hat beam profile is preferable for Q switched lasers that can prevent uneven energy distribution over a given area, thus preventing &#;hot-spots&#;.[ 4
Scan density, pattern of scan, pulse width, fluence, etc for fractional lasers. The laser should preferably have variable scan density, adjustable and variable scan patters, changeable spot size of each micro-beam, high power (e.g., min 30 W for fractional CO).[ 2
Correct wavelength of filters, variable on time and off time, the HP of IPL should have built-in cooling.
Publications in peer-reviewed journals on the laser technology-to access the efficacy, side effects profile of a given system. The articles can give a clue to parameters used which can serve as a starting point for new users.
Feedbacks from other users of the system in question: Always make it a point to ask users about their experiences with the machine. Sometimes it may be helpful to ask a competitor company for an opinion about the machine for a frank assessment.
Demonstration: Always insist for a demonstration of the system before buying. The machine should be kept in the clinic for at least two treatment sessions and should be tried on different types of patients.
Engineer's training and expertise: Try to understand if the marketing person or engineer of the company has some basic scientific knowledge about the laser machine, the training they got from the parent manufacturer abroad, etc. This is very important as the technical knowhow to service is the key to maintenance. Many laser manufacturers provide training to service personnel in their plant. This needs to be verified.
Power Meter: Ensure that the service engineer has a power meter for the laser which is critical to ensure correct output and the parent company always suggest this for the dealer. Other requirements that need to be ensured while buying a laser:
Electrical and power back-up
A three phase electrical connection is preferred if multiple lasers/devices are being planned.[ 6
Uninterrupted power supply (UPS) online and offline is recommended and the UPS should be of 3KVA or more with 16 batteries of 60 Amps each.[ 6
Air conditioning is essential for laser equipment as most lasers require an ambient temperature of 18-22° C for proper functioning. This also ensures a dust-free environment.[ 9
Cooling: Most lasers require some form of cooling for protection of the epidermis immediately before, during and immediately after a laser procedure. Many devices have built in cooling either in the form of cryogen spray or contact parallel cooling or simultaneous air cooling. It is important to ensure that cooling is working properly to prevent any accidental epidermal injury. Air cooling systems such as Zimmer require regular cleaning of the filter for ensuring optimal performance. Always check the cost of cooling machine and include it in your budget.
Laser System manual: Each system comes with an elaborate manual with trouble shooting guide. Always read the manual thoroughly and familiarise with it and store it in a place where it is easily accessible.
Laser safety eye glasses and corneal eye shields: All lasers are shipped with their specific eye protecting glasses with the recommended optical density (OD) to block out the harmful rays from entering the operator's eyes. These are to be worn during the laser procedure by the operator and any other person present in the laser room. Ensure that the glasses are in good condition upon taking delivery of the system and take care in maintaining them as they tend to be expensive. External metal/plastic opaque eye shields are also provided with the laser to be worn by the patient during the procedure.
For detailed laser room requirements, specific articles may be referred.[6]
Cost negotiation: The ultimate aim of a buyer of a laser system is to get the maximum discount possible as compared to the list price or quoted price. This will depend on the communication skills of the buyer, knowledge of the global and local pricing, discounts offered by the dealer/distributor and the approximate price paid by the other purchasers of the system. Try not to show the sales representative that you are interested in their system only; make them aware that you are looking at other competing systems. Never be in a hurry to buy a laser! Get quotes from different companies for the similar systems. This will allow better negotiation. Also, ask colleagues about the price paid by them. It is important to understand that all medical lasers depreciate as soon as they are sold. So getting the best price is more crucial. Always strike a balance between cost and quality while making a decision. This cost-quality equation has to be kept in mind while buying a laser system.[10] It is also not practical to buy and own every new laser that is launched in the marker. It is paramount to evaluate each technology in depth and choose only that system which will benefit the practice, only then will the money be well spent.[11]
Funding: A doctor may have to take a bank loan to purchase the laser. Check the interest rates and required documents to procure the loan. The following is a rough check-list of the documents needed for procuring a loan for medical equipment:
Quotation from the company.
Purchase contract.
Income tax returns.
Registration documents of the clinic.
Clinic building documents.
Medical council registration.
Personal documents such as identity, address proofs, taxation documents.
Having a laser purchase contract on paper signed by the buyer and distributor is essential. Many distributors take a brief one page purchase order (PO) from the customer, but this is insufficient as full details of the deal are not mentioned. The purchase contract should include:
Advance: Once a price is negotiated, and a contract is signed, an advance amount is sought by the company. Generally this should not be more than 25% of the total amount. A proper receipt clearly stating the cheque number and the amount needs to be obtained.
Clause for balance payment, with date of repayment; installments, if any, need to be specified.
Dollar /foreign currency value: Since many machines are imported, the price often depends on the price of dollar/other currency which are subject to market fluctuations. This should be properly discussed and proper understanding reached with respect to market fluctuations of currency.
Check the cost of the machine mentioned and note if there is any undervaluation. DO NOT UNDERVALUE THE MACHINE FOR ANY REASON.
Check if all costs are mentioned: Taxes, customs, transportation, insurance while transportation and installment costs.
Warranty: Warranty should include all parts of laser; check the fine print and see if there are any exclusion clauses. Check if the warranty is subject to any specification of laser room and associate devices such as vacuum evacuator or air conditioner. Check the frequency of servicing, need for distilled water replacement if any. Sometimes the company or parent organisation may offer an extended warranty or extra service that should be in writing and mentioned in the contract.
Clause on repair: Check how many hours/days will it take to attend to breakdown? Rough estimate of time frame to repair/replace parts? Installation of a standby system while the machine is being repaired so that work will not be affected should be asked for.
Taxes can be levied while transporting the machine from the port to the place of installation. Proper documentation needs to be done for this and done accurately. Most of the laser machines are delicate and not supposed to be shifted to various centres. It does affect the life of the machine. Check if such movements can be done.
This should be done from the company representative himself and not by anyone else. During the time of installation, check if the laser room has adequate air conditioning, space for movement and other requirements &#; ask him to specify that this is done. A satisfactory installation report should be sought and kept.
Hands on training is to be provided to the doctor and staff regarding usage, safety and maintenance of the laser. Some lasers need some optics to be cleaned periodically, de-ionised/distilled water to be topped up and filters to be cleaned or replaced. These have to be understood and learnt by the doctor and staff handling the system. After training, insist on a certificate of hands on training issued in the names of all staff who may handle it.
The contract of purchase always should be under the IEC (Import export code) code (of the doctor)
Before the purchase, a doctor should communicate with the parent organisation via or regarding the serial number of the device and the date of manufacture.
The serial number on the machine at the time of purchase should be noted and mentioned on purchase bill. At the time of taking insurance this number should be mentioned on insurance form.
The serial number of hand piece should also be noted and mentioned separately on purchase bill. In case hand piece needs replacement, it has to be proved that it was bought with laser.
The manufacturing date of both laser machine as well as hand piece have to be noted separately.
It is a good idea to click a picture of serial number of the device upon installation.
Ensure that the service engineer gives a service report after each visit signed by him with comments of the performance of the system.
It is recommended to know the cost of spare parts from the parent organisation, well in advance; this is helpful for the future course of action.
Clinician must take the LMC (labor maintenance contract which is generally 5%-7% of the invoice value, only for servicing) or AMC (annual maintenance contract, which is generally 22% of the invoice value, includes all parts and maintenance), after the warranty period is over. The figures stated above are to give a rough idea and can vary.
AMC is also essential for insurance purpose.
Insurance coverage is a must following installation of the device.
Electronic insurance for the system-that covers all the parts and electronics of the device. Many insurance companies offer electronic insurance that may be cheaper than the AMC offered by the laser companies after the warranty period is over. While taking insurance it is important to specify which parts are covered and mention it in the policy.
Fire and burglary insurance and insurance for mobility from one clinic to another also needs to be done.
Always insist on the installation report, mentioning all details, regarding the device number, hand probe number if any, make/model number, installation date, warranty period, instructions regarding the electricity provision/UPS for the system. It is better to have an on-line uninterrupted power supply for safety and uninterrupted lasing during a procedure.[10]
Local partner of the parent company must keep updating the doctor about the road-map of the parent organisation and updates related to the products or devices.
In case of a break down, the company should attend to the call within 48 hours or in case of delay in repair, should provide a stand by unit till the repair is done. This should be again mentioned in writing in the laser purchase contract.
Get the machine calibrated at regular intervals to ensure sufficient output.
As a good number of new lasers are being sold, it is inevitable that many lasers will end up in the used lasers market. Often, a machine which has been under demonstration use by the company may also be supplied. Some tips regarding the purchase of pre-owned systems are summarised below.
Cross-check with the original dealer if they are willing to service it upon purchase.
Typically the 1 year warranty most systems come with is void if the laser is sold to another person as this warranty is non-transferable. The new buyer may have to pay a &#;recertification fee&#; to the manufacturer in order for the distributor to service it in future and offer additional warranty.
Check the shot count, previous service reports, age of the system and availability of spares.
Insure the system during transport to avoid damages that may occur during transport.
A good website for checking prices of used medical devices is www.dotmed.com
While buying a used system, ensure that the laser safety eye glasses and corneal shields are also provided and that they are in good condition.
User Manuals: Always insist on the original user manual.
User video: Videos taken by the original owner while performing treatments gives a good insight into the system performance and technique.
How to identify if the machine supplied is new and not perused? It is possible to identify if the supplied machine is new or used by contacting the manufacturer and requesting this information by providing the model and serial number.
A check list for signing a contract is shown in text box below. The exact format will vary according to the system, the company, the cost and payment terms and conditions.
To summarise, some important points to consider while purchasing a laser system are shown in text box:
A model contract can be found in annexure 1 online
NLINE
MATERIAL
Click here for additional data file.(3.0M, pdf)After experiencing the many pitfalls of shaving (ingrown hairs, redness, irritation, and speedy re-growth), I'm contemplating alternative hair removal methods this season. Since professional laser hair removal isn't the most budget-friendly option&#;initial sessions can cost upwards of $600&#;I'm looking at the next best thing: the best at-home laser hair removal devices.
Before I go any further, body hair is an entirely natural, normal thing, and you should absolutely not feel compelled to remove it if you don't want to&#;it's a personal choice. (If you're a body-hair-don&#;t-care kind of person, more power to you!) But if you're into the idea of laser hair removal, are over trying to find the best razors, waxing kits, the best devices to remove facial hair, epilators, or want to save money but are a little freaked about the idea of doing laser hair removal at home, I have expert-recommended and top-rated devices for you to invest in.
Ahead, I chatted with several top dermatologists to recommend the best, safest, at-home laser hair removal devices for you to consider. Keep scrolling to find their expert advice, plus a few safety tips, a breakdown of the types of lasers you'll find on this list, and more.
Marie Claire's Favorite At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
Shop The Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
Best Overall At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 IPL
$430 at BraunPromising smooth results in as little as four weeks, this at-home laser hair removal device is fast enough to treat both legs in five minutes flat, plus it has three sensitivity modes so it's as close to painless as you'll get. It uses up to 125 flashes per minute&#;with a total of 400,000 flashes, or 21 years of full-body use&#;and is clinically tested to be safe and effective at home. However, this device is not the best for all skin tones and hair type combinations; it isn't suitable for very deep skin tones or very fair hair colors, like light blonde, red, and gray. With hundreds of five-star reviews on Braun's site, this device is fan-adored.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 400,000
What We Love: Top-rated; has a max of 400,000 flashes; comes with three different heads
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep skin tones; not suitable for light blonde, red, or gray hair
Customer Review: "I got this around 2 months ago as a gift and have been using it every week and even though I have about 4 sessions left until I can see full results, I basically have no hair left on my body! The only thing is that the heads are impossible to clean and I would love to buy new heads for them, haven't done much looking around but hopefully, that's possible" &#; Braun
Best At-Home Hair Removal Device for Hard-to-Reach Areas
Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser 4X
$499 at AmazonJust short of $700, the Tria 4X will cost you a pretty penny&#;but it was the first FDA-cleared laser for at-home use, and has become a favorite among dermatologists and patients for legit, professional-level results. &#;I&#;m a fan of this device because it has high energy levels and it&#;s super easy to use,&#; says Dr. Nazarian.
Dr. Zeichner is a fan of the Tria, too: "This can be used both on dark and light hair, although it will not work on white hair," Zeichner explains. "It is a true laser as opposed to other devices that use a broad spectrum of light." Dr. Sobel suggests trying the Tria laser as well. "The technology safely delivers over three times more hair-eliminating energy than other at-home hair removal devices, making it the most powerful at-home hair removal device," Dr. Sobel explains. The over 1,000 five-star reviews only co-sign Dr. Zeichner and Dr. Nazarian's love of the Tria.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
bodesi' are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
Laser Type: Diode
What We Love: Dermatologist-recommended; can be used on dark and light hair; wireless design; more effective than others on the market
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep skin tones; not suitable for dark skin tones; not suitable for blonde, gray, or red hair
Customer Review: "I didn't think this would work so well but I see a dramatic difference and I've only had this for a little over a month." &#; Amazon
Best Laser Hair Removal Device for the Bikini Line
Nood The Flasher 2.0
$199 at AmazonThis is the best laser hair removal device if you&#;re targeting the bikini line. This Nood gadget uses a less painful multi-wavelength of light that is still just as effective. It&#;s not wireless, but it has more intensity thanks to the fact that it has a cord. Reviewers note that it is easy to use, but that the process takes a while because you need to go over each area three times. They also note that coarser hair&#;like on the face&#;takes longer to go away, but that they notice a difference in the density of their hair after eight weeks. Nood's The Flasher 2.0 device has racked up over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon alone, with many users obsessing over how effective it is.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
What We Love: 600,000 flashes; fast-acting; top-rated; less painful; good for the bikini line; can be used on the face
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep or dark skin tones; not suitable for white or light blonde hair
Customer Review: &#;I have used this as directed (go over the area 3x, twice a week for 8 weeks) and while the hair is not 100% gone, it&#;s about 90% gone and the hair that remains is much finer and grows much slower. I no longer have to shave every day! I will keep using this in these areas for a few more weeks and I&#;ve also started doing other areas. I would buy this again.&#; &#; Amazon
Best Cooling At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Ulike Sapphire Air+ IPL Hair Removal Device
$309 at CurrentbodyFor the most comfortable hair removal experience, you want to keep your skin cool. This FDA-cleared IPL device from Ulike uses sapphire lamp heads and a Quadro cooling system to bring the sapphire temperature down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It promises results in as little as four weeks, has five energy levels for different skin tones, and the kit comes with everything you need, including safety glasses and a razor. It has two treatment modes: Continuous Mode to glide over the skin and treat larger surface areas, as well as Single Mode for targeted removal. It&#;s suitable for treatment on the face, bikini line, armpits, arms, and legs. The Ulike is not suitable for very dark and deep skin tones or red or gray hair. It also has almost exclusively five-star reviews on Currentbody's website.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 1,000,000
What We Love: Has five energy levels; has two modes; has cooling technology; comes with safety glasses
What We Don't: Not suitable for very dark and deep skin tones; not suitable for gray and red hair colors
Customer Review: &#;I followed instructions completely and was starting to see results by week 3! It&#;s amazing and the only thing that has ever worked for me! I have dark thick hair and only a small amount grows back now! I used to shave every other day, it&#;s now been a week and I still look like I don&#;t need to shave!&#; &#; Currentbody
Best Affordable At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Kenzzi IPL Laser Hair Removal Handset
$105 at AmazonThis lesser-known device from Kenzzi caught our eye thanks to the fact that it has five power settings, which means you can adjust based on your skin tone, the color of your hair, and let's be real, your pain tolerance levels. As with all these devices, compliance is key, so do follow the manual instructions and expect results within five weeks of diligent usage. Plus, it promises to work in under 10 minutes, so it&#;s great if you&#;re on the go. However, the brand notes that this device is not suitable for deep skin tones.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 500,000
What We Love: Small design; suitable for use on the face; has five levels of intensity
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep skin tones; not suitable for dark skin tones
Customer Review: "Easy to use, no pain, definitely seeing reduction in hair - only shaving legs twice a week instead of daily after 10 weeks. Looking forward to seeing how things go with monthly maintenance." &#; Kenzzi
Best At-Home Hair Removal Device for All Skin Tones
Mē Smooth Permanent Hair Reduction Device
$230 at AmazonNot only is this laser hair removal device the only one of its caliber that's FDA-cleared for every hair color and skin tone, but its smaller size&#;it fits right in the palm of your hand!&#;means it can as readily flash away hairs on your upper lip as on your partner's back and thighs. Use it once a week for seven weeks, and expect smoother skin for way longer than a razor can offer. The 200,000 pulses promise to last you anywhere between three and five years, and the device claims that it will remove unwanted hair in under 20 minutes. Dozens of five-star reviews on Amazon don't lie&#;users love it for how reliable it is in their routines.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 200,000
What We Love: Good for all skin tones
What We Don't: Reviewers found that it takes a long time to see results
Customer Review: "I wished I had known about this product years ago! It works so well for me, when other things have not! In just 3 uses, I&#;ve seen a major reduction in hair growth & it has not damaged my skin. It saved me tons of money from those pesky contracts at the laser hair salons." &#; Amazon
Other At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices We Love
Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for Beginners
Mismon Hair Removal Device
$190 at AmazonThis laser hair removal device from MiSMON uses IPL technology and is FDA-cleared. Results from a clinical trial showed that hair grew more slowly after three weeks and that there was a 94 percent reduction in hair after a nine-week course. It has a LED screen at the top so you can clearly see the amount of flashes you have left. The device has 300,000 flashes, enough for between seven and nine full-body uses. It has five energy levels and is cleared for use on most areas of the body, including the underarms, bikini line, back, and arms. However, it is not suitable for use on the face. The over 400 glowing five-star reviews on Amazon's site speak to how this device works and fast.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 300,000
What We Love: Comes with protective glasses; has an LED screen for precise use
What We Don't: Large size; not recommended for use on the face
Customer Review: "Have been using this device for about 6 months now. Over 4,000 flashes used. Device powers on consistently, works while treating areas and has adjustable intensity settings. Most importantly, THIS REALLY WORKS. Used to treat my lower back for swimsuit season, after just a few treatments I noticed a significant thinning in the hair that grew back. After a couple of months only light peach fuzz is growing where coarse black hair grew before. The product works and it works well. Excellent value for the money compared to similar devices." &#; Amazon
The Best 2-in-1 At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Jovs Venus Pro II
$299 at JovsA common theme among various at-home laser hair removal devices is that the head of the device is so small and unwieldy that a removal session can sometimes take extra time. This device speaks for itself with one big selling point: the 330-degree rotating head is detachable. Plus, no matter where you're looking to treat (face, arms, legs, bikini lines, etc), there's a setting that's going to work for you. The six modes let you remove hair from any part of your body with accuracy, and the cooling screen keeps your skin at a constant five degrees Celsius throughout the process. A quick scroll through Jovs's website will show dozens of glowing reviews, many of which have before-and-after pictures, proving how effectively the Venus Pro II works.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: Optimal Pulsed Technology
Number of Flashes: Unlimited
What We Love: Has a 330-degree rotating head; good for use on the face; cools skin down during use; has unlimited flashes
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep skin tones; Not suitable for gray, light blonde, or red hair
Customer Review: "Super easy to use laser hair removal. I love the cooling device, makes the device relatively painless. I used this on my legs for almost two months now and the hair is basically gone. I am usually helpless when it comes to figuring stuff like this out, but I found this device super easy to figure out and use. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a laser hair removal device. A tad pricey, but totally worth it." &#; JOVS
Best Fast-Acting At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
SmoothSkin Pure IPL Hair Removal Device
$349 at CurrentbodyThis sleek unit makes use of a broader range of light wavelengths to cover larger stretches of skin more quickly. Plus, it has unlimited flashes. The downside? Hair grows back a bit more quickly, so you'll have to be more diligent with touch-ups. It's also, unfortunately, not safe for dark skin tones. That said, it's both fast-acting&#;as in, it promises to remove hair on your entire body in 10 minutes&#;and fast-working. The brand recommends that you use it once a week for 12 weeks before moving to just once a month from there on out. Reviews prove that it's easy (and painless) to use.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: Unlimited
What We Love: Covers a large amount of space each time; has unlimited flashes per use; works quickly
What We Don't: Reviewers found that hair grows back quickly after each use; not suitable for dark skin tones
Customer Review: "Been using the device for about 3 mo and noticeably less dark hair showing back up! The device has been easy to use for the most part, having some trouble around rounder/angular parts to get it flat enough to trigger even with the guide provided. It definitely picks up shades of your skin tone and adjusts the strength of the pulse to that so some lighter hairs on darker parts are not being treated. Overall very excited about the results!" &#; Currentbody
Best Editor-Approved At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
Braun Silk Expert Pro3 Permanent Hair Removal System
$260 at AmazonBianca Rodriguez, Fashion & Luxury Commerce Manager at Hearst Magazines and an at-home laser hair removal expert, received her first device from her mother as&#;wait for it&#;a high school graduation present. "It wasn't your average gift, but my father gave me his Cuban hair genes, and, well&#;you know where this story is going. So I set off on my hair-free mission and quickly became addicted," Rodriguez tells Marie Claire. "So it's only fitting that my mother gifted me this tool for my college graduation so I could come full circle in my journey to become stubble-free. The Braun Silk Expert System uses intense pulsed light (IPL) that quickly treats my legs in under 10 minutes. It's also equipped with over 300,000 flashes, equalling around 16 years of treatments. I'm hooked." The nearly five-star reviews on this device don't lie&#;they prove it's effective when used consistently and a worthwhile investment.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: 300,000
What We Love: Has SensoAdaptTM technology that adapts the light intensity for your skin; fast-acting; good for use on the face
What We Don't: Not suitable for deep and dark skin tones; not suitable for red, gray, or light blonde hair
Customer Review: "You need to be consistent to see the results. It took me 3-4 months of weekly procedures to switch to bi-weekly ones. The hair that still grows is significantly softer than it was before." &#; Amazon
Best On-The-Go Laser Hair Removal Device
Sensica SensiLight Pro Bronze
$389 at AmazonDr. Gretchen W. Frieling recommends this device from Sensica. &#;I love this!&#; she says. &#;It has an automatic and manual mode and is best for on-the-go hair removal. It comes with two different heads for large and small areas. The charge will last for approximately 600 flashes.&#; Plus, it comes equipped with a skin sensitivity meter to protect your skin as you go as well as an energy recommendation button that, as you use it, gives you the best energy level based on your skin type. Dr. Frieling's thoughts are backed up by dozens of glowing reviews on Amazon.
FDA-Cleared: Yes
Laser Type: IPL
Number of Flashes: Unlimited
What We Love: Dermatologist-recommended; good for use on the face, has two light windows&#;one for use on the body and another, smaller one for the face; has a cordless design
What We Don't: Some reviewers felt it took longer to work than expected
Customer Review: "It&#;s everything I ever wanted, cordless and unlimited flashes for such a low price!!! Have tried first treatment. Will keep using to check effectivity." &#; Currentbody
How I Chose the Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
There are a few key aspects to keep in mind when choosing an at-home laser hair removal device: price point, the number of flashes each device uses, whether a device has FDA clearance, and whether or not a device will work for all skin types or tones. Ahead, I broke down exactly what team Marie Claire&#;specifically, Marie Claire Beauty Director Deena Campbell, Beauty Editor Samantha Holender, and Fashion E-Commerce Editor Julia Marzovilla (a.k.a. me!)&#;looked for when reviewing and testing hair removal devices for this list.
I also talked with Dr. Joshua Zeicher, M.D., the Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospital's Department of Dermatology; Dr. Howard Sobel, M.D., NYC dermatologist and founder of Sobel Skin; Dr. Rosemarie Ingleton, M.D., dermatologist and medical director of Ingleton Dermatology; Dr. Rachel Nazarian, M.D F.A.A.D., a dermatologist at the Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City; Dr. Gretchen W. Frieling M.D., a Boston-based triple-board-certified dermatopathologist, and Dr. Anahita Mansouri M.D., a cosmetic doctor in the UK.
Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
The short answer is yes, laser hair removal does work. However, it comes with a few caveats. "The term laser hair removal is a bit misleading, as it really should be called laser hair reduction," notes Dr. Zeichner. "In some cases it may be difficult to fully remove hair completely." The bottom line? Using your device consistently is the key to complete hair removal.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Dr. Zeichner says that "the lasers definitely decrease the density of hair and the thickness of each individual hair," and that "it takes multiple treatments to give the results most people are looking for"&#;so, as with most pricey beauty treatments, it's best to stay patient when waiting for your results.
What Are The Different Types of Lasers Used?
There are several common types of laser hair removal devices. Here&#;s a helpful guide to some of the options you&#;ll see most often on this list. Since there are several ways to remove hair at the follicle, different devices (and light wavelengths) are used. &#;One is not necessarily better than another, and it really just depends on what type of technology a company chooses to use,&#; Dr. Zeichner says. Ahead, I've broken down the most common types of lasers used to remove hair.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
It varies. Some devices promise weeks or even months of a hair-free look. However, it's important to stay consistent. "Each treatment will partially destroy the follicle, so repeated treatments are often needed for the full effects," he explains. "The difference between at-home and professional strength treatments is the energy level of the laser. At-home devices have much lower energy levels to make sure they are safe to use at home, unsupervised. As a result, these treatments are slower to work and require more sessions to give noticeable improvements."
Are At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices Safe?
Dr. Zeichner considers at-home lasers a safe alternative to in-office treatments. "At-home devices work similarly to professional treatments, but use lower energy levels. They are more time-consuming to use, but can help. They are also a great option to maintain improvements between professional treatments."
Safety Tips From A Dermatologist
How To Prepare for At-Home Laser Hair Removal
What Should You Do After At-Home Laser Hair Removal?
Meet the Experts
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD
Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology and an Associate Professor of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.As the Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospital's Department of Dermatology, Dr. Zeichner has a broad interest in medical and cosmetic dermatology as well as clinical research. His specialty is the treatment of acne, as well as the cosmetic rejuvenation of the aging face. Dr. Zeichner treats general skin conditions, including eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin cancer. In addition, he is well-versed in the use of Botox and dermal fillers, as well as lasers and chemical peels.
Dr Howard Sobel, M.D.,
Dermatologist & Founder of Sobel SkinDr. Howard Sobel, MD, operates Sobel Skin, a private practice for dermatology, cosmetic surgery, and aesthetic medicine in the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York City. Sobel Skin was a part of the early stages of the medspa / medi-spa evolution in the United States. Dr. Sobel has been a pioneer of the union between dermatology & cosmetic surgery. Over the years, Dr. Sobel has not only been known for his expertise in all aesthetic treatments, but as one of the best botox and fillers doctors in New York City. His ability to provide an exceptional outcome never fails, and patients are not only thrilled with their results, but also feel younger and rejuvenated after treatment. Dr. Sobel combines modern technology with over thirty years of experience. His unique practice provides the latest advances in dermatology, dermatologic cosmetic surgery and progressive face and body treatments all in one luxurious Park Avenue facility. Dr. Sobel&#;s focus within dermatology is to further the total well-being and health of his patients and those who use the products he formulated and created.
Dr. Rosemarie Ingleton, M.D.
Assistant Clincal Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai HospitalDr. Ingleton is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. She received a BA in Psychobiology from New York University and her medical degree from the University of Maryland. She completed her Internal Medicine residency at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York and her Dermatology residency at New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons, the Dermatology Society of New York and the National Medical Association.
Rachel Nazarian, M.D., F.A.A.D.
Dermatologist at the Schweiger Dermatology GroupDr. Rachel Nazarian joins Schweiger Dermatology after years of practicing various aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic treatments, skin cancer, general dermatology and dermatologic surgery.Dr. Nazarian has written many published articles in medical journals as well as widely respected dermatology textbooks, such as Treatment of Skin Disease.Dr. Nazarian serves as a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center&#;s Department of Dermatology, where she completed her dermatology residency. While completing her medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine, Dr. Nazarian was awarded a grant from the Women&#;s Dermatology Society. Dr. Nazarian is a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Dr. Gretchen W. Frieling
Dermatologist & Founder of GFace MedicalDr. Frieling. &#;Dr. G,&#; is a medical doctor with over 13 years of experience as a leader in the Aesthetic, Dermatology and Pathology fields. Her background is notable for intensive training in ballet, which includes attending the Juilliard School in New York City. She combines her artistic eye, perfectionistic qualities, and medical expertise, to give her patients impeccable results. When it comes to cosmetic procedures, specifically injectables, Dr. G has mastered the art of re-vitalizing the face by softening fine lines and wrinkles, re-establishing volume, and optimizing overall appearance and beauty. She will listen to your requests and concerns. Dr. G will explain the available procedures that would be optimal for your unique situation. She also performs select body procedures, including fat dissolving, buttock lifting/gentle reshaping, and skin tightening.
Dr Anahita Mansouri
DermatologistDr. Ana is a UK-qualified Aesthetic Doctor with a wide range of medical & surgical training experience as well as a background in GP training. She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery from Newcastle University in and has since then completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry. Dr Ana is passionate about all things Aesthetic Medicine & Cosmetic Dermatology.
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