Laser hair removal - is it worth buying a device for home?

How does a laser epilator work for home use?

The mechanism of operation of a laser epilator is simple: when turned on, the device emits an infrared beam that penetrates the hair follicle. There, light energy is absorbed by the brown pigment melanin and converted into heat energy, heating and damaging the hair root. As a result, hair falls out. After several procedures, the bulb is completely destroyed.

Thanks to the pigment melanin, light energy is converted into heat, having a destructive effect on the follicle

Laser hair removal becomes effective only during the active phase of hair growth, which is not easy to catch. Therefore, hair often continues to grow after the first procedures. Typically, several sessions are required to completely remove excess hair. Sometimes this lasts for 5–6 months.

Important: laser hair removal is only suitable for those with dark hair and fair skin due to the high content of melanin pigment.

A home device differs from a salon device in terms of smaller power and grip area, so it will take more time to completely get rid of hair at home. In addition, when carrying out the procedure yourself, it is important to strictly follow all the rules for using the device, otherwise there is a high risk of not only not achieving the desired effect, but also getting burns. In this case, you will have to take full responsibility for your health.

A home laser epilator differs from a professional one in terms of power and grip area.

But from a financial point of view, a laser epilator for home use looks much more attractive than visiting a salon. By paying once, you get an unlimited number of procedures. This is very important, because it is not known in advance how many sessions you will need to completely get rid of unwanted vegetation.

Features of laser epilator

Considering how a laser epilator works and what it is, we note that it can affect hair that is in the growth stage. Because of this, there is a need to frequently repeat the procedure for removing body hair.

The laser beam acts on the melanin pigment, which is part of the structure of the skin, as well as the hair itself. Therefore, the beam does not affect light or gray hair, but it copes well with dark hair, especially if the skin is light.

The principle of operation of a laser epilator
Attention. Dark skin, which is rich in melanin, can even cause burns. Because of this, sunbathing is not recommended less than a week before the procedure.

How does a home laser epilator work?

The operating principle of this device is not complicated.

• When it is turned on, the infrared ray released by it penetrates directly into the hair follicle.
• In it, this light energy is absorbed by the melanin pigment, converting it into thermal energy, thereby damaging the hair root.
• This causes hair to fall out, and after several similar procedures, the hair follicle is completely destroyed.

Important: The laser hair removal procedure becomes most effective during the period of active hair growth, which cannot always be accurately determined. Therefore, to completely remove body hair, several sessions are required, which can last for several months.

Considering how to use a home-purchased laser epilator, we note that devices for use at home are somewhat different from professional products, namely:

1. Professional models use ruby, alexandrite and sapphire lasers. That's why they are very expensive.
2. Home models are equipped with semiconductor crystals. They are much cheaper, but their effectiveness is lower. To achieve results, it is necessary to carry out more procedures compared to professional models.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal at home is carried out at least 3 sessions for each zone. The device operates in flashes, with one flash usually removing 1-3 hairs. On home laser devices, the power can be adjusted using a special regulator. For sensitive areas (armpits, bikini) it is better to set the power to medium.

Varicose veins are one of the contraindications

Let's look at how to use a laser epilator for hair removal at home in a little more detail.

Hair removal procedure:

• the working surface of the laser device is applied to the area selected for treatment, a flash is made;
• after 2-3 flashes the device requires time to recharge;
• Before starting work, carefully read the instructions for the device;
• to launch a laser to remove unwanted hair at home, both contact buttons must touch the surface being treated at the same time, causing a flash;
• hair for hair removal should be from 1 to 3 mm long, and the skin should be dry and clean;
• It takes no more than 4 seconds to process one hair to avoid burns;
• after this, the beam is moved to another place (you cannot treat the same area twice in one session).

Attention . After laser treatment, hair begins to fall out after a few days, and it is advisable to repeat a similar procedure no earlier than after 2-3 weeks. Important. To get rid of all hair for life, you need to repeat hair removal procedures using a laser epilator designed for home use every 3 months for three years!

What areas can be treated at home?

The area covered by the laser beam is quite limited; it can treat a small amount of hair in one procedure. Therefore, the device is most often used in small areas:

• bikini zones;
• neck;
• backs;
• upper lip;
• breasts;
• faces;
• armpits;
• legs, arms.

Treatment zones
Note. There are laser devices with a Scan scanning function, which allows you to remove up to 200 hairs in one flash, treating surfaces even in hard-to-reach places.

Choosing a home laser device

Before purchasing a device for home use, there are several factors to consider:

• phototype of your skin (the device must be equipped with the correct type of laser);
• areas that you are going to treat (there are specialized devices for different areas of the body).

Types of device

Epilators are equipped with an alexandrite or neodymium laser. In the first case, the laser is effective only for those with dark hair and light skin; the second option has a wider spectrum of action. The most effective and versatile type of laser is diode. It is designed to work with any skin phototype. Unfortunately, no laser epilator can handle very light or gray hairs.

There are devices with Single and Scan functions. The difference is that the Single household epilator can only act on one hair, while the Scan model is equipped with a scanner that determines the location of the hairs, automatically directing a beam of light at them. The impact area of ​​epilators with the Scan function reaches 60 square meters. mm, which significantly reduces the procedure time. In addition, the scanning function allows you to avoid burns that can be caused by mistakenly pointing the spot epilator at an area where there is no hair. There are also devices that combine both functions.

Criterias of choice

So, if you have weighed the pros and cons and are ready to buy a laser hair removal machine at home, you need to pay attention to the following aspects:

• financial opportunities. According to experts, cheap devices will not bring the expected results, so it is recommended to pay attention to devices with an average cost of 400–500 dollars;
• service. Typically, laser epilators do not require replacement components. Photoepilators with similar functions, on the contrary, have a limit of emitted flashes, and therefore require regular replacement of the lamp. Don't get confused;
• parameters of laser radiation. The longer the wavelength, the deeper it penetrates into the epidermis. It is recommended that a dermatologist work with waves longer than 800 nm. The exception is epilator models equipped with an intelligent scanning system and automatic selection of radiation parameters;
• convenience of the device. Laser hair removal is a lengthy process, so make sure that the device fits comfortably in your hand, has convenient dimensions and a sufficient cord length;
• processing area. The smaller it is, the correspondingly less time will be required for hair removal;
• presence of cooling function. Sometimes a laser hair removal session can be painful, which is why some models are equipped with a cooling system. This option will minimize all unpleasant sensations;
• manufacturer. Choose a well-known and reliable manufacturer.

Table: popular models of laser epilators

Photo gallery: review of laser epilators for home use

Remington IPL6250 laser epilator has Multi Flash and Single Flash modes

HoMedics DUO Salon AFT + IPL epilator (laser + photoepilator) is suitable for any skin phototype

Laser epilator DEZAC RIO 321029 (x20 + scan) is equipped with a skin type scanning function

The BABYLISS G946E IPL laser epilator has 5-level light adjustment

The Rio Salon Laser Tweezer laser epilator is capable of only targeting hair

What is laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is a hair removal technique based on the destruction of their follicles, that is, roots. During the procedure, laser energy targets melanin and is conducted down the hair, heating the follicle. As a result, the follicle is destroyed and hair stops growing.

Since the action of light flashes is aimed at working with melanin, the procedure is not suitable for girls with light hair, including gray hair - the device simply “does not recognize it”, and, as a result, will not be able to disrupt the nutrition of the root and destroy the shaft. Laser hair removal, despite all controversy, is a medical procedure and requires the clinic to obtain a medical license.

Who is suitable for laser hair removal:

• people with excess body hair. In such people, hair grows quickly and very abundantly, so other methods of removal are ineffective and short-lived;
• for those who are not suitable for depilation. For example, some girls experience ingrown hair after waxing or sugaring, and irritation appears after a razor;
• people with dark hair;
• with hirsutism - male-type hair growth, when vegetation spreads to the chin, cheeks, back, chest.

The first mentions of laser hair removal date back to the 1970s. Then physicist Mark Clement accidentally exposed his hand to a laser beam. As a result, the laser destroyed all the hair in the illuminated area. Since the skin was not damaged, the scientist did not attach any significance to the incident, but after a couple of months he noticed that hair did not grow in this area of ​​the skin. A little later, after dozens of repetitions, the procedure received permission and began to be provided in cosmetology clinics.

Mark Clement used a neodymium laser in his research, but since then other types of lasers have appeared:

• ruby;
• alexandrite;
• diode

Ruby laser

The oldest representative among lasers, which is practically not used in modern cosmetology. Due to the pulse length of 694 nanometers and power of 40-60 Joules, J per square meter. cm ruby ​​laser is only suitable for very dark hair growing on fair skin.

Besides:

• the ruby ​​apparatus leaves burns on the skin more often than others;
• less effective than other varieties.

Alexandrite

The Alexandrite laser replaced the ruby ​​laser and became more popular due to its wavelength of 725 nanometers. This type of device works on dark and light brown hair, and is also capable of removing vellus hair. It gives the best results on light skin, but sessions can also be performed on tanned skin.

Previously, hair removal with an alexandrite laser caused severe pain, but modern devices have a built-in cooling system - it smoothes out the pain and makes the procedure less uncomfortable. These advanced devices include, for example, Candela GentleLase Pro and Cynosure Apogee+.

Alexandrite lasers that are not equipped with a cooling system require external cooling of the skin, otherwise they can cause pain and leave burns.

Diode

The newest type of laser with a wavelength of 800-900 nanometers. Thanks to the frequency of 1-10 hertz, the diode laser is also used on dark skin, but you should not go for the procedure immediately after tanning. A diode laser will not “take” hair that is completely devoid of melanin, for example, gray hair, but if the hair is light and has at least a minimal amount of pigment, you can compete for smooth skin.

For hair removal, a diode laser is used in tandem with ultrasound gel, which facilitates the sliding of the handpiece over the skin.

Neodymium

The neodymium laser has a significant wavelength - 1064 nanometers, but its power is lower than that of alexandrite or diode. The essence of the effect of a neodymium laser is primarily in the destruction of the vessels that nourish the hair, so this type is used to remove spider veins on the skin, but is not used for laser hair removal.

Most often, clinics use alexandrite and diode lasers. In some salons you can find both devices at once.

Yulia Shirokova

Cosmetologist, network of laser hair removal clinics Podruzhki

Ask a Question

In the Podruzhki network of clinics, we use diode and alexandrite lasers. The selection of a specific device depends on the patient’s initial data – skin type and hair color. All lasers in our clinics have the appropriate documents, including a registration certificate and a declaration of conformity.

Laser hair removal is suitable for any areas where hair grows:

• bikini zones;
• thighs and legs;
• intergluteal zone;
• face and neck;
• toes;
• hands;
• back and chest.

How to properly use a laser epilator at home

After purchasing a suitable model, be sure to read the instructions for the device. This way you can achieve the most effective results and avoid mistakes. Before using the epilator, consult a dermatologist.

Preparing for hair removal

Both salon and home laser hair removal sessions require a preparatory stage. Compliance with the following recommendations will make the procedure safe and most effective:

• limit your time in the sun 2 weeks before the procedure;
• 3-4 days in advance, shave the hair in the desired area. By the time of laser treatment, the hairs should be 2–3 mm long, in the active growth phase;
• immediately before the procedure, wash and dry the areas of skin on which hair removal will be performed;
• Before using the epilator for the first time, perform an allergy test. To do this, treat a small area and see how the skin reacts after a few hours. If there is no itching, redness or irritation, you can proceed to further work.

Conducting a home session

There is nothing complicated in the process of laser hair removal; even the most inexperienced girl can handle it, but for the first time everyone may experience a little anxiety. Relax, the procedure is safe. You just need to follow a simple algorithm:

1. Place the head of the turned on epilator firmly on the desired area of ​​the body.
2. Wait for the light flash.
3. Move the device to the next area.

During one session, each area is treated with the laser only once

Important: during one session, each area can be treated with a laser only once.

All! As you can see, the process is very simple and fast. Please note that instant hair loss will not occur. As a result of light exposure, hair weakens and falls out within 2–3 days. Therefore, you should not immediately sound the alarm and lament the ineffectiveness of the device. Do not try to pull out hairs with tweezers, as there is a risk that you will damage the hair shaft and the bulb will remain in place. Just be patient and calmly wait for the result.

The next session should be carried out after 3-4 weeks, when the new hairs have grown a little and are in the active growth phase. Between sessions, it is prohibited to carry out any shaving procedures, as well as do other types of hair removal.

How to behave after the session

It is very important to follow the recommendations of specialists so that removing unwanted vegetation does not cause you harm:

• immediately after the procedure, do not wear clothes that fit tightly to the skin, especially those made of synthetic materials;
• Do not use alcohol-containing cosmetics for 2 weeks;
• do not rub the skin with a washcloth or scrub;
• avoid sunbathing for 2 weeks;
• do not receive massage sessions for three days;
• in the summer, apply sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 before each time you go outside.

Laser Hair Removal Hardware

The Diolaze hair removal attachment can be used on any part of the body or face. It is optimal even for working with very sensitive skin. There is a three-dimensional cooling system, which makes hair removal almost painless. The first significant changes can be seen within a week - the hair is not burned, but its bulb is destroyed, so it falls out gradually.

Diode hair removal attachment “Diolaze”

The MeDioStar NeXT laser hair removal device allows you to use different wavelengths. Thanks to this property, you can get rid of hair without injury, once and for all, even if the hair follicles are very deep. In addition, the device inhibits the formation of new hair. You can work with any skin phototype - the laser is suitable even for albinos or those with extremely dark skin. In addition, there are a large number of attachments with which you can treat almost the entire body. As a result, the client can get rid of unwanted hair wherever he needs it.

Laser hair removal device "MeDioStar NeXT"

Laser hair removal “Soprano XL” has an excellent cooling system, thanks to which the client does not feel discomfort during the treatment of the skin. The destruction of the hair follicle occurs due to its heating. Thanks to a very targeted effect, the structures around the treated area remain intact. Hair falls out immediately after the procedure, but to get rid of it for good, you need to complete the full course.

"Soprano XL"

Omnimax Sharp Light is a hardware with many functions. It has 8 attachments that allow you to tighten the skin, get rid of age spots and, in fact, remove unwanted hair. The device allows you to set a specific program suitable for a specific client. As a result, errors and the human factor - such as a trembling hand, insufficient professionalism, etc. - are completely eliminated. There are no burns with this type of hair removal; the impulse is delivered with optimal strength, and therefore the result is truly amazing.

"Omnimax Sharp Light"

Using the ALMA LASERS Spa Accord device for hair removal allows the procedure to be carried out as comfortably as possible for the client. The special technology of this laser cools the skin during hair removal, thereby eliminating the possibility of burns or damage to the tissue around the treated area. One exposure removes about ten percent of hair follicles that are in the active growth phase. Hair removal is allowed even in summer or on dark skin. However, the effect will be zero if the client's hair is gray or white, since it cannot be warmed up sufficiently.

Device "ALMA LASERS Spa Accord"

Possible consequences

Swelling and redness may occur immediately after the procedure. They do not require special treatment and will soon go away on their own. Cooling the treated area during and after the procedure will help avoid unpleasant consequences. To do this, it is recommended to use a special gel for laser hair removal (if the device is not equipped with a cooling function). The intensity of the reaction depends on the thickness, color and thickness of the hair. A dense flow of energy is absorbed by the bulbs, they heat up, resulting in swelling and redness. Most often this occurs in those with sensitive skin.

Contraindications

Contraindications to home laser hair removal are:

• malignant formations, including skin;
• diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease;
• phlebeurysm;
• the presence of inflammation, wounds, cuts in the treated area;
• a large number of moles, warts, papillomas on the treated area of ​​skin;
• allergic diseases in the acute stage;
• viral infections;
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side effects

Side effects may occur as a result of non-compliance with the rules of preparation and subsequent care of the treated area, as well as if contraindications are ignored. The main side effects after laser hair removal include:

• the appearance of burns. This usually happens due to incorrectly selected laser parameters, as well as non-compliance with the rules of conduct after sessions;
• folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles). It may appear in people with excessive sweating, as well as when visiting a bathhouse or sauna immediately before the procedure;
• the appearance of pigment spots on the skin;
• allergic reactions. There is no allergy to the laser itself, but a reaction to related cosmetics may occur;
• exacerbation of dermatitis and other skin diseases.

Side effects may occur if safety rules are not followed during laser hair removal.

Contraindications for use

When purchasing such a device, certain recommendations should be followed. It is important what color the growing hair has. The laser beam destroys the follicle well only in dark ones. It may not remove thin, fluffy, light hairs. It is also useless to use it on dark (and tanned) skin. In this case, the radiation will simply scatter over the surface.

Before use, you should definitely consult a specialist. There are serious contraindications for such procedures. These include:

• herpes;
• eczema;
• psoriasis;
• malignant neoplasms;
• diabetes;
• pregnancy;
• skin diseases;
• the presence of a large number of moles;
• scratches;
• phlebeurysm;

• active form of tuberculosis;
• cardiovascular diseases.

Reviews: laser epilator for home use

I have the X60 RIO model. I bought it in the fall. I was satisfied. There are instructions and even a disc with a video. There is no pain. Now I gave it to a friend to use. The instructions say that the service life is up to 7 years. I completed the course, and nothing has grown for 4 months. So cool that you don't have to think about it! I used to have waxing every 3 weeks.

Eve

https://www.babyblog.ru/community/post/krasota/1462065

I bought it a year ago for 16 thousand. It helped me a lot. True, this is a tedious and long-lasting task; in home lasers the coverage area is about 1 cm by 1 cm. Can you imagine how much time it will take you to get your legs in order? But on my own, I will say that the game is worth the candle. I got my bikini area and armpits in order, my legs are in the process. The only thing is that for some reason it really doesn’t help brunettes. It didn’t help my sister.

Guest

https://www.woman.ru/beauty/body/thread/3878258/

I don’t want to upset you, it’s better to check with a specialist, but it seems to me that dark skin is an absolute contraindication for laser hair removal. As for reviews of devices, I use RIO Laser Tweezer. I chose it because of the average price and small size. Because I often travel around the cities of the country. The device is not bad, but only for removing single hairs. Ideal if you had laser hair removal in a salon, and then sometimes you need to remove “surviving” hairs.

Shashkova

https://epilus.ru/forums/topic/kto-delal-lazernuyu-epilyatsiyu-v-domashnih-usloviyah/

So, it is now possible to get rid of unwanted vegetation quickly, painlessly and forever without even leaving your home. Specially designed devices will cope with the problem in just a few sessions. The main thing is to make sure that the epilator is suitable for your purposes, choose a quality device and follow safety rules.

• Author: woman
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