11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (2024)

Table of Contents
The best IPL devices to buy now Best IPL hair removal device Runner-up IPL hair removal device Best IPL device for quick results Best anti-ageing IPL device Best value IPL hair removal device Best IPL device for precision Best IPL device for tailored hair removal Best IPL hair removal device for sensitive skin Best compact IPL hair removal device How we test IPL devices Bondi Body Laser @ Home V2.0 Bondi Body Laser @ Home V2.0 Key specifications Philips Lumea IPL 9000 Series Cordless Hair Removal Device Philips Lumea IPL 9000 Series Cordless Hair Removal Device Key specifications Philips Lumea Prestige IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device BRI954/00 Philips Lumea Prestige IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device BRI954/00 Key specifications JOVS Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and IPL Hair Removal Device JOVS Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and IPL Hair Removal Device Key specifications SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device Key specifications Philips Lumea IPL 9900 Series Philips Lumea IPL 9900 Series Key specifications Philips Lumea BRI921/00 7000 Series Corded IPL Device Philips Lumea BRI921/00 7000 Series Corded IPL Device Key specifications Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 Key specifications Silk'n Infinity 400k Hair Removal Silk'n Infinity 400k Hair Removal Key specifications Sensica Sensilight Pro IPL Hair Removal Device Sensica Sensilight Pro IPL Hair Removal Device Key specifications SmoothSkin Muse IPL Hair Removal Device SmoothSkin Muse IPL Hair Removal Device Key specifications What is an IPL device? What's the difference between IPL and laser hair removal? Is IPL hair removal safe? How to use IPL devices Can I use my IPL device every day? Does IPL treatment remove hair permanently? Does IPL hair removal hurt? Who can use an IPL hair removal device? How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?
11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (1)

This article was updated in February 2024 to reflect the latest deals, stock levels and retailer discounts, getting you the best value for money on your investment piece.

If shaving, plucking or waxing just aren’t cutting it when it comes to hair removal, then IPL — aka “intense pulse light” — may be worth a try this summer. The most advanced hair removal method you can use from the comfort of your own home, it works by stopping the hair cycle in its tracks to prevent regrowth.

    Due to their high-tech nature, the best IPL hair removal devices tend to be expensive, but it's worth considering the savings in the long-term — you won’t need to splurge on trips to the salon or new razors, and you'll also be cutting down on environmental waste.

    Plus, some of the Good Housekeeping Institute's tried and tested top scorers have great deals on right now, including £90 off winner and £300 off our top pick for sensitive skin by Braun.

    The best IPL devices to buy now

    To find the top-performing tools, the GHI asked our panel of testers to try a range for three months.

    Here are the devices that tackled unwanted body hair with ease. Shop our edit now and scroll down for the full reviews:

    How we test IPL devices

    Our panel of 180 testers across the UK helped us test a range of at-home IPL hair removal devices for six to 12 weeks.

    Testers followed the instructions provided with each device to find out how effective they were at removing hair on legs, underarms, the bikini line and upper lip.

    They also assessed how easy each device was to use and control, how simple the process was, and how comfortable it felt when removing hair. Finally, testers reported back on when regrowth started to appear.

    Here are our favourites for silky smooth skin this summer.

    Score: 90/100

    This device scored top points for comfort, with our testers declaring it “basically pain-free”, while those who used it on their face experienced no irritation. Performance-wise, our panel was pleased with how quickly it reduced hair regrowth, with many saying it worked effectively after just three weeks. It also manoeuvred well over tricky areas, such as the chin and knees, which are often hard to treat.

    It’s ergonomically designed, with many testers commenting on how easy it was to hold and change modes, and its shape prevented hands from cramping during prolonged periods of use. It has a range of settings, so you can find the right one for you depending on the area you’re targeting. There’s also no need to change heads for different parts of the body, making the process more streamlined. Testers liked that the device was quiet during use, too.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessYes
    Flashes> 300,000 flashes
    Features8 light intensities, auto and manual modes
    What's in the box?Device, adapter, pouch, safety glasses and instructions
    UsageOnce a week for 12 weeks

    2

    Runner-up IPL hair removal device

    Philips Lumea IPL 9000 Series Cordless Hair Removal Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (14)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (15)

    2

    Runner-up IPL hair removal device

    Philips Lumea IPL 9000 Series Cordless Hair Removal Device

    Score: 88/100

    As you can see from our list below, Philips has a lot to offer in the IPL department, and this cordless option successfully lived up to its predecessors according to our panel.

    After just three weeks, all our testers were satisfied with the lack of regrowth, with many saying it worked wonders on both facial and body hair.

    It won brownie points with our panel for how easy it was to use and how well it managed to keep hair around the bikini line at bay after six weeks of use. “Hair regrowth has become less frequent, and it's even less dark and thinner than before,” said one tester.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessYes
    Flashes>450,000
    FeaturesSmartSkin sensor
    What's in the boxStorage pouch, four attachment heads
    UsageEvery two weeks for the first six weeks, then touch-ups where needed

    3

    Best IPL device for quick results

    Philips Lumea Prestige IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device BRI954/00

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (16)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (17)

    3

    Best IPL device for quick results

    Philips Lumea Prestige IPL Cordless Hair Removal Device BRI954/00

    Score: 87/100

    This device claims to show results in as little as four treatments, with further sessions helping to reduce regrowth — so if you’re after quick results, this is the model for you.

    Depending on the attachment, the device will switch to a tailored programme for the relevant body or face area. There are five settings and a sensor to identify the most comfortable one for your skin tone. You can also download a free app to create a tailored treatment schedule for each area and get advice and tips.

    The device showed a significant reduction in hair growth for our testers, with most noticing a difference four weeks in. After using the product for the full 12 weeks, the majority said most hairs had stopped growing back and any stubborn hair grew back finer.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessYes
    Flashes>250,000
    Features5 light intensities, 2 treatment modes (stamp and slide), Lumea app, skin sensor
    What's in the box?Device, adapter, pouch, three attachment heads and instructions
    UsageEvery 2 weeks for the first 4 sessions, then treat as needed

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    4

    Best anti-ageing IPL device

    JOVS Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and IPL Hair Removal Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (18)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (19)

    4

    Best anti-ageing IPL device

    JOVS Venus Pro Skin Rejuvenation and IPL Hair Removal Device

    Score: 86/100

    Not your average looking IPL device, this innovative gadget not only leaves you hair-free, but an LED attachment also helps target the signs of ageing (including wrinkles and dark spots) — talk about a 2-in-1.

    If you’re worried about the pain involved (which, trust us, is minimal compared to other hair removal methods), this device features ICE tech that helps cool the skin, which most testers said stopped pain.

    The unique rotating head aims to leave no patch of skin untreated too, which the majority said made it easy to get into every nook. Overall, everyone loved the high-quality feel and were satisfied with its hair-removal skills after six weeks.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessNo
    Flashes>500,000
    Features6 light intensities, 180° rotating head
    What's in the box?6 attachment heads
    UsageEvery 2 weeks for the first 6 weeks, then treat as needed

    5

    Best value IPL hair removal device

    SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (20)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (21)

    5

    Best value IPL hair removal device

    SmoothSkin Pure Fit IPL Hair Removal Device

    Now 10% Off

    Score: 86/100

    Although almost half the price of some other models on our list, this is a top-performing gadget. Our testers appreciated its sleek design, finding the device easy to hold, and said it only took a couple of minutes to cover their chosen area.

    When it comes to results, our panel saw noticeable improvements within just four weeks of use, reporting that their hair regrowth was slower. After eight weeks, one tester said their "hair is growing back slower and thinner, especially in the underarm area." Our panel also liked the different settings offered, which includes one for sensitive skin, and found the light on the side useful for checking whether the device was in contact with enough skin.

    Testers did note that this machine is slighter noisier than other models, and they struggled to get the flash to work on the front of their legs, but overall, this is a good value buy.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    Cordless No
    Flashes> 130,000 flashes
    Features10 light intensities
    What's in the box?Device, precision head and instructions
    UsageOnce a week for 12 weeks, then top up every one or two months

    6

    Best IPL device for precision

    Philips Lumea IPL 9900 Series

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (22)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (23)

    Score: 85/100

    With four attachments to target different areas, this machine impressed for easy and accurate hair removal across the body, from the face to the bikini line.

    Everyone found it easy to manoeuvre, especially over their legs. It was particularly effective for facial hair removal, with one tester saying they saw satisfying results here in just four weeks. Others were impressed with the lack of regrowth, with one user saying they hadn’t used it for three weeks and still "can't see much hair".

    The panel also liked that the machine is cordless, although the battery life could be longer, and some did find the design a little bulky.

    Key specifications

    MainsYes
    CordlessYes
    Flashes> 450,000 flashes
    Features5 light intensities, integrated UV filter and safety system, skin tone sensor, SmartSkin sensor and Lumea app
    What's in the box?Device, adapter, pouch, four attachment heads and instructions
    UsageEvery 12 weeks

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    7

    Best IPL device for tailored hair removal

    Philips Lumea BRI921/00 7000 Series Corded IPL Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (24)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (25)

    7

    Best IPL device for tailored hair removal

    Philips Lumea BRI921/00 7000 Series Corded IPL Device

    Now 26% Off

    Score: 84/100

    This machine is one of our most affordable picks. Testers found that hair regrowth reduced after just four weeks of use, while the hair that did grow back was thinner and therefore less noticeable.

    Depending on the attachment, the device will switch to a tailored programme for the relevant body or face area. There are also five settings and a sensor that identifies the most comfortable one for your skin tone. Plus, it comes with a handy precision attachment for smaller areas.

    After 12 weeks, our panel saw a visible reduction in hair on the body and face and no one experienced any pain or irritation while using it.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessNo
    Flashes>250,000
    Features5 light intensities, Lumea app, skin sensor
    What's in the box?Satin Compact pen trimmer with eyebrow comb and cleaning brush, cleaning cloth, attachment head, precision attachment head, device, manual
    UsageEvery 2 weeks for the first 4 sessions, then treat as needed

    8

    Best IPL hair removal device for sensitive skin

    Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (26)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (27)

    8

    Best IPL hair removal device for sensitive skin

    Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5

    Now 38% Off

    Score: 83/100

    According to Braun, this device is able to deliver the equivalent of 22 years of treatment in its lifetime, and can treat your legs in less than five minutes. Featuring an impressive 10 intensity levels – ideal for those with sensitive skin – most of our testers were pleased with how quickly this device delivered results, seeing a decrease in their regrowth after both four and eight weeks.

    It comes with a number of interchangeable heads (and a Venus razor as an added bonus), which our panel said made it easier to reach most areas of the body. Our testers found it covered a lot of skin within a short space of time too, delivering on its claims, and was easy to set up and control due to its single control button.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessNo
    Flashes400,000
    Features10 light intensities, 2 treatment modes (stamp and glide), skin tone sensor
    What's in the box?2 treatment heads, device, instructions
    UsageBody hair requires 1 treatment a week (for 4 to 12 weeks), then treat as needed (every 1 to 2 months)

    9

    Best compact IPL hair removal device

    Silk'n Infinity 400k Hair Removal

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (28)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (29)

    9

    Best compact IPL hair removal device

    Silk'n Infinity 400k Hair Removal

    Score: 83/100

    This device claims to perform a full body treatment in less than 20 minutes, aiming to reduce hair growth and prevent stubble and ingrown hairs. With a built-in skin sensor, it checks skin compatibility too, to ensure it emits the correct light pulse. You can also connect it to an app via Bluetooth, which offers a treatment plan and a light pulse counter.

    Our panel noticed a reduction in hair growth and thickness after four weeks, with the majority saying there was a significant difference after the recommended 12 weeks. The panel appreciated its simple design and precise head, which allowed access to hard-to-reach areas. It’s compact too, which is ideal for those short on storage space.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessNo
    Flashes400,000
    Features5 light intensities, skin tone sensor, compatible treatment plan on mobile app
    What's in the box?Power cord, device, UK, EU and US power plugs and instructions
    UsageInitially every 2 weeks for 2 months, then every 4 weeks, then treat as needed

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    10

    Sensica Sensilight Pro IPL Hair Removal Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (30)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (31)

    10

    Sensica Sensilight Pro IPL Hair Removal Device

    Score: 78/100

    This clever device features both pulse and glide modes – the latter allows you to cover larger areas of skin without needing to repeatedly press the button, making it quicker to use.

    When it came to hair regrowth, our testers saw a difference within four weeks and noticed as time went on that it became even more effective at slowing down regrowth, making hair sparser.

    The panel said the design was quite bulky, and it was a little tricky to change heads, but they did appreciate the different attachments, which allowed for better precision in certain areas.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessYes
    FlashesUnlimited
    Features6 light intensities, 2 treatment modes (pulse and glide), skin tone sensor
    What's in the box?Device, 2 treatment heads, charging cable, storage bag and instructions
    UsageBody hair requires treatment every 2 weeks for the first 4 weeks, then once every 4 weeks; for facial hair, use it every 2 weeks for the first 5 weeks, then every 4 weeks; after 7 weeks for body hair and 8 weeks for facial hair, touch-up when needed

    11

    Best IPL hair removal device for beginners

    SmoothSkin Muse IPL Hair Removal Device

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (32)

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (33)

    11

    Best IPL hair removal device for beginners

    SmoothSkin Muse IPL Hair Removal Device

    Now 10% Off

    Score: 76/100

    If you find too many treatment options overwhelming, this device keeps things simple with only three settings — but still includes an in-built skin sensor that adjusts the light intensity based on your skin tone.

    Our testers loved this fuss-free IPL, with most saying it was quick to get through the whole body, and was comfortable and gentle on skin. No one reported any pain or irritation and all said that hair was visibly reduced within 12 weeks of use. In fact, all of our panel said they were satisfied with the product by the end of the trial.

    Key specifications

    PowerMains
    CordlessNo
    FlashesUnlimited
    Features3 light intensities
    What's in the box?Device, manual
    UsageOnce a week for 12 weeks, then treat as needed

    What is an IPL device?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (34)

    IPL is a broad-spectrum light that’s scattered across the skin to help with long-term hair reduction. It directs energy at the melanin (the pigment that gives the skin/hair its colour) in the hair follicle, heating up the hair right down to the root (where most of the melanin is concentrated) to damage the follicle without harming the surrounding skin and break the cycle of regrowth.

    Don’t expect instant results, but with regular use, IPL can help prevent unwanted hair from reaching the skin’s surface. Energy, frequency, skin and hair colour are all determining factors in the efficacy of the treatment.

    Most of the best IPL hair removal devices are suitable for the body and face. They work by either gliding over skin, which is best for larger surface areas of the body such as your legs, or stamping (pressing onto the area), which is better for smaller areas where you need more precision.

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    What's the difference between IPL and laser hair removal?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (35)

    Don’t confuse IPL with laser hair removal. Laser treatments use a different light source and target a more concentrated area. The laser method is often more powerful. You can use IPL devices at home, but if you want laser hair removal you’ll need to have it performed by a trained professional.

    Is IPL hair removal safe?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (36)

    IPL is considered safe to use, providing the device is from a reliable, trusted brand and instructions are followed as advised. Occasionally, some people may experience side effects such as redness, discomfort or, very rarely, blisters or burns. If any irritation occurs, consult a medical professional.

    How to use IPL devices

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (37)

    For IPL hair removal to work effectively, some hair needs to be present for the energy to travel down to the follicle from the surface of the skin — but not so much that you run the risk of burning the skin. For that reason, it's best to shave before your IPL session rather than completely remove the hairs by waxing or epilating.

    To fully break the growth cycle of your unwanted hair, regular IPL sessions are required. Each brand advises on how often to use their machine, and when you can expect to see results.

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    Can I use my IPL device every day?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (38)

    Although it comes down to the specific brand and model, most IPL devices recommend you use them once every two weeks for the initial four weeks of treatment. Once you’ve mastered this, top-ups can take place up to once a month.

    Note that to see the best results, you should stick to the recommended schedule to stop regrowth long-term. Make sure you note down the date you start your IPL journey and set up reminders of when to top up.

    Does IPL treatment remove hair permanently?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (39)

    Whether you’ve banished hair for good depends on your skin and hair type, as well as the area of the body involved. If you stick to a regular IPL routine, you can expect to see the majority of your hair gone for the long haul. But as an IPL device can only stunt the growth of active hair follicles, it may take a while to remove all hair. This is because some areas will grow back quicker than others. Persistence is key though, and, at the bare minimum, you can expect much slower re-growth.

    Does IPL hair removal hurt?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (40)

    The level of discomfort varies from person to person, but the sensation can feel a little tingly and hot — it’s sometimes likened to being flicked with a hot elastic band. The process is quite quick, though, so the pain doesn’t last long.

    Most devices have a range of heat settings to make the process more comfortable too, especially in areas that are more sensitive. It's important to remember that a lower intensity is also less effective, so keeping it at this setting would require you to use the machine for longer.

    If you’ve tried epilating and couldn’t get through it without your eyes weeping, rest assured this is a more pain-free method!

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    Who can use an IPL hair removal device?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (41)

    IPL devices aren’t suitable for everyone, as they’re only able to identify and target hair pigment that is a contrasting shade to the skin. Naturally light blonde, red, white and grey hairs contain little pigment, so IPL typically isn’t as effective on people with these hair shades, whatever their skin colour. Many devices also don’t work on dark skin tones. Typically, those with pale to medium skin and dark hair are the best candidates for IPL.

    Note that they aren’t suitable for pregnant women, those with certain skin/hair conditions, or those undergoing particular treatments. They also don’t work on tattoos or permanent makeup — so always check the small print before you buy.

    How many IPL treatments does it take to see results?

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (42)

    Typically, IPL devices should be used regularly for four to 12 weeks, to make sure all visible hair has been treated. Hair should start to appear finer and grow back slower, or not at all. Top-up sessions can be done where there is any regrowth. Results vary depending on the use of the device and your skin/hair type.

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (43)

    Florence Reeves-White

    Senior Beauty Writer

    Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.

    With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE, Women’s Fitness, Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.

    When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com, her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (44)

    Tested byOrla Badger

    Senior Beauty and Grooming Tester

    Orla is our Senior Beauty and Grooming Tester and has extensive knowledge of skin and hair composition thanks to her first class bachelor's degree in cosmetic science from the Universy of the Arts London. She also spent time as a Formulation Chemist intern at Amelia Knight Cosmetics.

    11 best IPL devices to shop, with up to £300 off (2024)
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