Do IPL devices really work? Does it hurt? Will I actually see a difference?
We’ve all asked ourselves these questions—and we made it our mission to get real answers, woman to woman.
So we did what most comparison guides don’t: we tested these popular at-home IPL devices seriously—over several weeks, in real-life conditions.
No marketing fluff, no pretty packaging bias—just honest reviews and real results.
Editor-in-Chief – Beauty Section
A 100% Female-Led Test, Driven by Honesty, Curiosity… and a Whole Lot of Hair to Start 😅
In our team, we’re about ten women between 35 and 54—with all kinds of skin types, hair textures, and lifestyles. Some of us work night shifts, others are juggling kids. We’ve got sensitive skin, thick hair, past experience with salon laser treatments—you name it. In other words, we’re real women living real lives—not just “picture-perfect” ad models.
And what we were all looking for was simple: a hair removal solution that fits into our daily routines, is gentle on skin, and actually works long-term.
Spoiler alert : We found a few products we loved… and a few major letdowns. But don’t worry—we did the homework so you don’t have to.
Because we were fed up with:
So when we heard about IPL’s promise—less hair, less effort, less pain—we knew it was time to dive in and really put it to the test.
We started with 19 of the most talked-about at-home IPL devices. Then we tested them thoroughly over several weeks, in real-life settings, on different body parts: legs, bikini line, underarms, even the face.
And no—we didn’t just try them once. We followed each brand’s recommended protocol, just like you would at home.
For every device, we evaluated:
Out of the 19 devices tested, 10 didn’t make the cut. Too harsh, not powerful enough—or just plain ineffective. (Looking at you, Arylush - Koliza.)
But 5 devices truly stood out—and we wholeheartedly recommend them.
These are the 5 IPL hair removal devices we tested, loved, and confidently stand behind.
No techy jargon. No empty promises. Just honest, no-nonsense feedback to help you find the device that fits your skin, your lifestyle… and your patience level.
Kicking things off? A true group favorite—8 of us gave it a solid thumbs-up ❤️
Yes, we also tried a few big-name brands—like Foreo—and some “Instagram-famous” devices making the rounds online. But honestly? We weren’t impressed. Some were awkward to hold, others had poor ergonomics (good luck using them on bikini lines or curved areas), and many just didn’t deliver the results they claimed.
So if you’re looking for something that’s reliable, gentle on skin, and actually designed with women in mind, this list is for you. Tested, trusted, and shared with care.
Here Are Our Top 5:
First up: the device that checked all our boxes…
GlowPro™ 2.0 — We Didn’t See It Coming, But It’s Now Our #1 Pick
What surprised us most about the GlowPro™ 2.0? How instantly easy and intuitive it is.
You don’t need to be a tech expert—just place it on your skin, glide it along, and it does the work for you with smart auto-flash technology.
But what really sets it apart is the PrecisionPulse™ technology, which lets you cover larger areas—like legs, arms, or back—quickly and efficiently, without having to pause every two seconds.
Several of us tested it for 6 weeks on different zones (legs, underarms, bikini line, face…), and the results were undeniable:
✅ Hair grew back much more slowly
✅ Skin felt noticeably smoother within 2 to 4 weeks
✅ And best of all… absolutely no pain
This isn’t one of those gimmicky devices that ends up forgotten in a drawer. This is something we actually use—and keep using. It’s even dermatologist-recommended, so if you have sensitive skin, this is one of the safest options out there.
Another big win? It comes with a lifetime warranty and a 90-day risk-free trial—which is rare, and worth calling out.
Visible results in just 4 weeks
100% pain-free sessions
Ideal for sensitive skin
Works on multiple skin tones & hair types
Lifetime warranty included
Complete kit: razor, safety goggles & storage pouch
Safe for all areas (yes, even your face!)
Ultra-convenient glide mode
900,000 flashes—no need to ever replace it
90-day trial: love it or your money back
Due to high demand, it often sells out quickly
IN SUMMARY
Let’s keep it real: GlowPro™ 2.0 is our number one pick—hands down. Why? Because it’s simple, gentle, effective, and, most importantly, it respects your skin and fits effortlessly into your routine.
For several of us, this test was a total game-changer. That’s why we recommend it with zero hesitation to anyone who’s ready to take back control—no pain, no expensive salon visits, and no draining your wallet.
💬 REAL FEEDBACK FROM OUR TESTERS:
“After just 3 weeks, my skin feels firmer and smoother—especially around my thighs.”
– Claire, 42
“No more ingrown hairs since I started using it. And I haven’t even had to shave between sessions.”
– Inès, 29
“I was nervous it might burn, but not at all. Even on my face, it feels super gentle!”
– Lina, 37
“Honestly? This is the only device I haven’t quit after 10 days. It’s now a part of my regular routine.”
– Sophie, 34
When We First Tried the Silk’n 7, It Definitely Caught Our Attention. Right out of the box, the Silk’n 7 looked like a serious, high-tech device. It promised tailored treatments based on skin tone, hair type, and body area—exactly what we were hoping for with such a diverse group of testers.
On the tech side, it combines IPL technology with galvanic energy, which, in theory, boosts performance by targeting hairs more effectively. And yes—for areas like the legs and arms, we started noticing visible results after 6 to 8 weeks, especially when we fine-tuned the intensity settings to match our skin.
But let’s be real—it’s not the easiest device to get the hang of at first.
The rotating head, while innovative, ended up being more awkward than helpful, especially on trickier areas like underarms or the bikini line.
And the size? It’s a bit bulky—several of us found it tiring to use on larger areas over time.
Another issue we picked up on: it’s less effective on very light skin or fine hair. Some testers saw little to no change, even after weeks of consistent use. This isn’t a “plug and play” device—it takes patience, and there’s definitely a learning curve.
That said, the Silk’n 7 is a solid, thoughtfully designed tool if you're someone who loves control and customization. If you’re methodical, don’t mind a slower pace, and want a high-end at-home solution, this could be a good match.
Dual tech (IPL + galvanic) for deeper, more precise targeting
Adjustable intensity settings for sensitive areas
Works across various skin tones and hair types
Quick treatments on standard zones (legs, arms, etc.)
Sleek packaging and convenient storage case
Bulky design: a bit heavy and not the most ergonomic
Rotating head can be tricky to use (especially in hard-to-reach areas)
On the pricey side for its overall performance
IN SUMMARY
The Silk’n 7 isn’t a bad device—not at all. But it does take some time to master.
It’s best suited for those who like full control, aren’t in a rush, and want a customizable experience for at-home treatments.
It’s also a better fit for medium skin tones and darker, more visible hair.
But if you're after something faster, lighter, or more beginner-friendly, there are newer models out there that are more intuitive and easier to use.
💬 WHAT OUR TESTERS SAID :
“I saw real improvement on my legs after a month. But the rotating head was a struggle on my bikini line.”
– Julie, 33
“It works well, but it’s a little heavy. I wish it were easier to handle on my arms.”
– Fatou, 45
“I had to test a few intensity levels before finding one that didn’t sting. Now that I’ve figured it out, I use it regularly.”
– Élise, 39
“No effect on light hair, unfortunately. But my underarms? Almost hair-free!”
– Manon, 28
One of the Most Hyped Devices—So We Had to Put It to the Test Between the bold claims of “12 months of smooth skin” and Braun’s solid reputation, we were eager to see how the Silk·Expert Pro 5 would perform in the real world—AKA our busy, sometimes sensitive, definitely-not-always-patient lives 😅
Right away, it made a strong impression with its powerful SkinPro 2.0 sensor, which automatically adjusts the intensity based on your skin tone. For anyone with reactive skin or concerns about burns, this is a huge plus. You also get three comfort modes, which came in clutch for sensitive areas (hello, bikini line…).
When it comes to speed, it earned points there too: a full-body treatment in around 10 minutes—as long as you stick to a weekly routine. Some of us made it part of our post-shower ritual and started seeing visible results by the 8th or 9th session, especially on legs and underarms.
But let’s talk about the downsides—because there were a few. That fancy sensor? Super picky. If it doesn’t get a perfect read, it won’t flash. On trickier areas, we spent way too much time trying to find the "right angle"—frustrating when you're short on time.
Another issue: it heats up fast. A few testers had to pause mid-session due to flash delays or random shutdowns. When it works, it’s effective—but it definitely demands patience and a bit of troubleshooting.
Bottom line? The Silk·Expert Pro 5 is a high-powered device that works best for those who love structure, routine, and don’t mind a little effort to get the payoff. But compared to newer, more user-friendly options, it’s not the most intuitive—or the gentlest.
Noticeable results starting around session 8 or 9
Smart skin sensor adjusts flashes in real-time
3 comfort modes (sensitive mode was a lifesaver!)
Fast sessions when everything runs smoothly (~10 minutes for full body)
Overly sensitive sensor → no flash if it doesn't detect perfectly
Heats up quickly, requiring breaks mid-use
Slower results on delicate areas like the face or bikini line
On the pricey side, considering occasional performance issues
IN SUMMARY
The Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 is kind of the “muscle” of the group—powerful, reputable, and effective, especially on larger areas like legs.
But it asks a lot in return: time, consistency, and a bit of patience when things don’t go smoothly.
It’s a great choice if you want performance and power and are willing to invest both time and money.
But if you’re looking for something simpler, smoother, or more beginner-friendly, other models—like the GlowPro™ 2.0—fit more seamlessly into real, everyday life.
💬 WHAT OUR TESTERS SAID :
“Saw a difference on my legs after 5 weeks. But using it on my face was a pain.”
– Mélanie, 41
“It heats up fast, so I do my legs in the morning and finish the rest later. Gotta plan it out!”
– Amandine, 34
“When it flashes, it’s amazing. But sometimes it just stops working for no reason. Super annoying.”
– Sabrina, 38
“I have super reactive skin, and this didn’t cause any irritation. But it’s a little too technical for me.”
– Céline, 46
We initially tested the Ulike Air 10 out of curiosity. The brand claimed visible results in just 2 weeks, and we were drawn to its sleek, modern design and all-in-one gift-ready packaging (no wonder it’s a popular holiday pick). Naturally, we thought: “Let’s add it to the lineup.”
On paper, it looked promising:
Dual-light tech for broader coverage, multiple intensity levels, a special mode for stubborn hair, and smart skin detection to prevent misfires.
And for some of us, it delivered—slower regrowth, finer hair, smoother skin after 6 to 7 weeks of consistent use (2–3 times per week).
It’s clearly designed for speed—especially on legs and arms. You can treat large areas in just 10 minutes, with no pain and minimal guesswork.
But (and yes, there’s a but)… not everyone had a smooth experience.
Several testers encountered issues right out of the box: devices that wouldn’t power on, flash interruptions after a couple of minutes, or a noticeable drop in performance over time.
And most importantly, the results were inconsistent. Legs often responded well—but areas like the face or bikini line? Not so much.
All in all, we’d call the Ulike Air 10 a bit of a gamble. It’s intuitive, lightweight, and pleasant to use—but it really works best if you match the ideal profile: light skin, dark hair, and a consistent routine.
Visible results for some users after 6–7 weeks
Special mode for coarse or stubborn hair
Wide treatment window → faster sessions
Multiple intensity levels for flexibility
Lightweight, beginner-friendly design
Too many reports of malfunctions or bugs early on
Inconsistent results depending on the area or hair type
Less effective on light hair or sensitive zones
No refund available after 30 days
IN SUMMARY
We all want that device—the one that frees us from constant shaving and waxing… without pain, without taking forever, and without draining our savings.
The Ulike Air 10 seemed like it ticked all those boxes: fast, modern, and easy to use.
But as the weeks went by, it became clear that it doesn’t always live up to the hype—especially if you don’t meet its “ideal user” criteria. It can deliver great results, but it can also disappoint. And with a limited return policy, it’s not a risk-free bet.
If you’re all about speed and are willing to stick to a strict schedule, it might be worth a try. Just know it’s not a guaranteed win for everyone.
💬 WHAT OUR TESTERS SAID :
“I saw results on my legs by the third session. But on my face? Nothing at all.”
– Léna, 36
“Loved the design and ease of use, but after a month… it stopped turning on.”
– Charlotte, 31
“Been using it twice a week for a month. My arms have less hair. My bikini line? Honestly, it looks worse.”
– Aurore, 42
“I think it’s a good device, but you have to be consistent and have the right hair type. Otherwise, it’s just frustrating.”
– Nathalie, 39
This is the kind of device we’ve all seen all over social media—promising fast results, sleek minimalist design, and a super affordable price point. Naturally, we were curious to see what the 5minskin™ 2.0 could really do… so we added it to our group test.
At first glance, it checks a lot of boxes: compact design, easy-to-use controls, included accessories (pouch, safety glasses, razor), and that bold claim of “just 5 minutes a day.” For a few of us, that was the motivation we needed to get started—especially on small areas like underarms or the face.
But after several weeks of testing, let’s just say… reviews were mixed.
To be blunt: only a handful of us saw any noticeable results. Most testers reported very little change even after 6 to 10 weeks of consistent use. The device lacks power, and it often struggles to detect the skin properly—making treatments a bit frustrating and unpredictable.
And that 30-day return policy? Honestly, it’s not long enough to see real results. By the time you might notice a difference, it’s often too late for a refund—which left a few of us feeling like we missed our window.
Bottom line? This is a decent starter device if you’re curious about IPL and don’t want to invest heavily right away. But for long-term use, with real, lasting results, it falls short in both reliability and power.
Super affordable—great intro to IPL without breaking the bank
Very easy to use (even for total beginners)
Lightweight, cute, and travel-friendly
Gentle enough for sensitive areas (face, bikini line, etc.)
Low intensity → little to no effect on some skin/hair types
Return window too short to properly evaluate results
Not ideal for darker skin tones or lighter hair
IN SUMMARY
The 5minskin™ 2.0 is what we’d call a “starter ticket” into the world of at-home IPL. And for that role, it can work—especially on small areas and for curious beginners who just want to try the technology out without overspending.
But let’s be honest with each other:
If you’re looking for real, lasting results and a device that can grow with your needs, it’s probably worth spending a little more upfront.
Better to invest once in a well-tested, durable, and guaranteed device than to replace a lower-powered one every couple of months.
💬 WHAT OUR TESTERS SAID:
“The price hooked me, and I was super motivated… but after 5 weeks, no difference at all on my legs.”
– Manon, 32
“It completely stopped working after just three uses. And I couldn’t get in touch with anyone for a replacement.”
– Sophie, 45
“I actually liked using it at first—it was gentle and quick. But I only saw results on my underarms, nowhere else.”
– Inès, 37
“Honestly, not a bad place to start if you’re on a budget. But now that I want better results, I’m definitely upgrading.”
– Cynthia, 29
Let’s be honest—we’ve all been there:
Last-minute shaving before going out, red bumps after waxing, or those salon appointments we either forget to book or cancel because, well… we’re just too busy (or too tired).
Then we discovered IPL. A real at-home solution we could use on our own schedule—pain-free, fuss-free, and with lasting results. But here’s the catch: not all devices are created equal.
What we were really looking for wasn’t another beauty gadget to toss in a drawer. We were looking for a solution that was:
That’s exactly what a quality IPL device can deliver—as long as you choose the right one.
💡 Visible Results—Or What’s the Point?
We’ve seen it firsthand: the best IPL devices show results within 2 to 4 weeks, especially when used consistently. You shouldn’t have to wait 3 months just to wonder, “Is this even working?”
🙋♀️ Comfort Comes First
We all have those tricky zones—bikini line, knees, underarms… So your device should be easy to maneuver, lightweight, and ergonomic enough to make you want to stick with it.
⚙️ Made to Fit Real Bodies
Some of us have fair skin, others have coarse hair. A few have struggled with irritation in the past.
A good IPL device should adapt to your unique needs—with adjustable intensity levels, gentle mode options, and smart skin tone sensors. That’s not a luxury—it’s a must.
🔒 Safety Isn’t Optional
We don’t take risks with our skin. Look for features like contact sensors and skin tone detection, especially if you’re prone to irritation. And always choose brands that are clinically tested and dermatologist-approved.
🧘♀️ Peace of Mind
Trying something new shouldn’t be stressful. Generous money-back guarantees made it easier for us to give IPL a shot. And once you’re convinced? Great—you keep it. If not? Send it back. No pressure.
Too-good-to-be-true gadgets
“Flawless skin in 3 days for $89”? No thanks. We’ve tried those—and most end up collecting dust in a drawer… or worse, causing breakouts and irritation.
Cheap devices that overheat or break down
We’ve had models that stopped working after just two uses. Now? We’d rather invest a little more for quality and reliability—it’s worth it in the long run.
Short answer: yes—if you choose the right device and stick with it.
Many of us noticed real results within just a few weeks: slower regrowth, finer, less visible hair, no more shaving every other day
And for those of us who’ve struggled with irritation or ingrown hairs, it’s been a total game changer.
We feel more confident, more comfortable, and way more free—and that makes all the difference in everyday life.
Across all our testing, GlowPro™ 2.0 stood out as the clear winner: Easy to use, incredibly gentle on the skin, effective on a range of hair types and it comes with a long-term warranty that gives you real peace of mind.
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