If you're tired of shaving, waxing, or expensive salon appointments, at-home hair removal devices offer a genuinely effective alternative. But with two main technologies on the market — IPL and laser — it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
Here's everything you need to know before you buy.
What is IPL?
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. Unlike a laser, which emits a single concentrated wavelength of light, IPL emits a broad spectrum of light across multiple wavelengths. This light is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle, generating heat that disrupts the hair growth cycle and reduces regrowth over time.
IPL devices are the most widely available technology for home use and are considered very safe when used correctly.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal uses a single, concentrated wavelength of light — typically diode, alexandrite, or Nd:YAG — to target hair follicles with greater precision than IPL. Professional laser treatments are performed in clinics and are generally more powerful than home devices.
Some home laser devices exist, but they are typically lower-powered than professional equipment and often similar in effect to IPL devices at the consumer level.
IPL vs laser — key differences
Precision: Laser is more targeted than IPL. Professional laser treatments can be more effective on a per-session basis. However, for home use the difference is minimal as both technologies work on the same principle.
Safety: IPL is considered very safe for home use across a wide range of skin tones and body areas. Laser devices require more care around skin tone compatibility.
Cost: Home IPL devices typically cost between £50–£200. Professional laser courses cost £300–£1,000+ depending on the treatment area. For most people, a home IPL device delivers excellent results at a fraction of the cost.
Results timeline: Both technologies require multiple sessions. Most users see significant hair reduction within 8–12 weeks of consistent use, with monthly maintenance treatments thereafter.
Which skin tones are suitable?
Both IPL and laser work by targeting the contrast between the melanin in the hair and the surrounding skin. They work best on people with light to medium skin tones and dark hair — where the contrast is highest.
IPL is not suitable for very dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick scale VI) as the device may absorb too much light into the skin rather than the hair follicle. It is also less effective on very fair, blonde, red, or grey hair due to the low melanin content.
Always patch test before your first full treatment, regardless of which device you use.
Which body areas can you treat at home?
Home IPL devices are safe for use on most body areas including:
- Legs
- Underarms
- Bikini line
- Arms
- Face (below the cheekbones)
Avoid use around the eyes, eyebrows, or on any area with tattoos, moles, or active skin conditions.
How many treatments do you need?
Hair grows in cycles — and IPL only affects hair in the active growth phase. This is why multiple treatments are needed. A typical course looks like this:
- Weeks 1–12: treat every 2 weeks
- Months 3–6: treat once a month
- Ongoing: occasional maintenance as needed
Most users see 70–90% hair reduction after a full course of treatment.
The verdict
For home use, IPL is the better choice for most people. It's safer, more widely available, covers a broad range of skin tones and body areas, and delivers excellent results with consistent use. Professional laser treatments remain the gold standard for speed and precision — but at a cost most people can't justify when a home IPL device achieves comparable long-term results.
The Velvura IPL Hair Removal Handset
The Velvura IPL Hair Removal Handset delivers up to 90% hair reduction in 8–12 weeks, with 5 adjustable intensity levels for safe, comfortable treatment at home. Available in green and white, with free UK delivery and a 30-day money-back guarantee.