IPL hair removal what an at-home device can do.

IPL devices reduce body hair with pulses of light – but not equally well for every skin and hair colour. Who a device is worth it for, what you can realistically expect and which models we recommend.

ARBUTI Hair Salon · Updated October 2026

Woman in a robe gliding a white handheld device along her lower leg in a bright bathroom

IPL devices we recommend

1Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 PL5137

Automatic skin sensor

Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 PL5137

According to the manufacturer, a sensor continuously measures your skin tone and adjusts the intensity automatically. That makes the device safe and easy to use. Braun says the lamp lasts for 400,000 flashes – enough for many years.

What we like

  • Automatic intensity
  • Long lamp life
  • Precision head for small areas

Keep in mind

  • Corded
  • High price
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2Philips Lumea Prestige BRI956

Attachments for every area

Philips Lumea Prestige BRI956

A cordless device with curved attachments for the body, underarms, bikini line and face. The shape of the attachments adapts well to each area. A sensor recommends the right setting.

What we like

  • Cordless
  • Four attachments
  • Good for underarms and bikini line

Keep in mind

  • Expensive
  • Takes a few hours to charge
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3Philips Lumea Prestige BRI954

Cordless, a bit cheaper

Philips Lumea Prestige BRI954

The same base device as the BRI956, with fewer attachments. If you mainly treat your legs and underarms, this is the more sensible choice.

What we like

  • Cordless
  • Tried-and-tested device

Keep in mind

  • Fewer attachments
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4Remington i-Light Prestige

Mains powered

Remington i-Light Prestige

An IPL device with a skin tone sensor and replaceable light cartridge, powered by a mains cable and base station. That’s hardly a problem in everyday use and ensures consistent power.

What we like

  • Skin tone sensor
  • Consistent power from the mains

Keep in mind

  • Cable and base station
  • Older design
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5Beurer IPL 5800 Pure Skin Pro

Budget starter

Beurer IPL 5800 Pure Skin Pro

Considerably cheaper than the big brands, corded and without a battery. A sensible way in if you just want to try IPL first.

What we like

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use

Keep in mind

  • No battery
  • Less convenient
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Who IPL works for

IPL targets the pigment in the hair. The greater the contrast between dark hair and light skin, the better.
Hair / skinLightMediumVery dark
Dark brown to blackVery goodGoodNot suitable
Light brownGoodLimitedNot suitable
Blonde, red, grey, whiteBarely worksBarely worksNot suitable

What we look for

Skin tone sensor
Checks before every flash whether your skin is suitable and chooses the setting. The most important safety feature for beginners.
Flashes
The lamp’s lifespan decides whether you’ll ever need a replacement cartridge.
Battery or cable
Cordless devices are easier to move around; corded ones deliver consistent power and are usually cheaper.
Attachments
Small attachments for the face, underarms and bikini line make precise work easier.
Patience
Hair grows in cycles. In the first weeks you treat regularly, then only for top-ups – manufacturers give their own schedules for this.

Frequently asked questions

Does IPL hair removal hurt?

Most people feel a brief, warm snap. In sensitive areas such as the bikini line it can be more uncomfortable – choose a lower setting there.

Does IPL remove hair permanently?

IPL reduces hair growth significantly, but doesn’t remove every hair for good. Occasional top-ups are needed to maintain the result.

Does IPL work for everyone?

No. It barely works on blonde, red, grey or white hair, and it’s not suitable for very dark skin because of the risk of burns.

Can men use IPL devices?

Yes, for example on the chest, back or legs. Most manufacturers advise against using them in the beard area.

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