6 Best Laser Hair Removal Devices: Do They Work?

Deciding between at-home laser hair removal and professional treatments feels a lot like choosing between a DIY project and hiring an expert. The DIY route offers convenience and a lower upfront cost, but it requires your time, commitment, and a good understanding of the risks. Professional treatments, on the other hand, provide power, precision, and the safety that comes with expert care. The right choice depends entirely on your skin, hair, budget, and goals. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons to determine whether the best laser hair removal path for you is the one you take at home.

Key Takeaways

• Choose based on your goals: Professional treatments offer powerful, lasting hair reduction with expert oversight, while at-home devices provide convenience for managing hair growth but require a long-term commitment.
• Prioritize safety for your skin tone: At-home devices work best with high contrast, specifically light skin and dark hair. For darker skin tones or very light hair, professional treatment is the safest and most effective option to avoid potential side effects.
• Follow a consistent routine for at-home success: To get results from an at-home device, you must stick to a regular treatment schedule. Proper prep, like shaving the area, and aftercare, such as applying sunscreen, are just as important for making every session count.

At-Home vs. Professional Laser Hair Removal: Which Is Right for You?

Deciding between zapping unwanted hair at home or visiting a professional can feel like a big choice. On one hand, at-home devices promise convenience and a lower upfront cost. On the other, professional treatments offer power, precision, and expertise. The right path really depends on your skin, hair, budget, and the results you’re hoping for. Let's break down what you can expect from each option so you can figure out the best fit for your smooth-skin goals.

How Do At-Home Devices Work?

At-home laser hair removal devices work by sending pulses of light to the hair follicle, which damages the root and slows down regrowth. Most of these gadgets use Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), a broad-spectrum light that’s less concentrated than a true laser. While they can leave your skin smoother over time, they are much less powerful than the machines you’ll find in a professional’s office. Think of it as a long-term reduction, not permanent removal. Because of their lower intensity, you’ll need to be consistent with treatments over many months to see and maintain your results. They are a solid option if you have the right skin and hair combination and are committed to a regular routine.

How Does Professional Laser Hair Removal Work?

Professional laser hair removal uses medical-grade lasers that deliver a concentrated beam of light directly to the hair follicle. A trained technician operates the device, customizing the settings to perfectly match your skin tone and hair color for maximum safety and effectiveness. This precision allows the laser to destroy the follicle without harming the surrounding skin. Because the technology is so much more powerful, you’ll see faster, more significant, and longer-lasting results. Our team at Brunswick Internal Medicine Group uses advanced aesthetic services to ensure each treatment is tailored specifically to you, which is key for getting the best outcome. This expert oversight also dramatically reduces the risk of side effects.

Breaking Down the Cost: At-Home vs. In-Office

At first glance, at-home devices seem like the clear winner on price. You pay a one-time cost for the device, which is a fraction of what a single professional session can cost. Professional treatments are an investment, often priced per session, and you’ll need a series of them for full results. However, it’s important to think about the long-term value. If your skin tone or hair color isn’t a good match for an at-home device, you might spend money on a gadget that never gives you the results you want. In that case, investing in professional treatments at a Med Spa can be more cost-effective in the long run because you’re paying for guaranteed expertise and technology that actually works for you.

Which Option Delivers Better Results?

When it comes to pure effectiveness, professional treatments have a clear edge. The powerful, concentrated lasers used by experts can achieve a level of permanent hair reduction that at-home IPL devices simply can’t match. Professional lasers are also more versatile. While at-home devices work best for a very specific profile, typically fair skin and dark hair, professional technology can be safely adjusted for a much wider range of skin tones and hair colors. If you have stubborn hair, lighter hair, or a darker skin tone, you will almost certainly get better, faster, and safer results by seeing a professional. It’s the most reliable way to achieve that lasting, smooth finish you’re looking for.

What Features Actually Matter in a Laser Hair Removal Device?

When you start shopping for an at-home laser hair removal device, the marketing jargon can feel a little overwhelming. With terms like "IPL," "flashes," and "cooling tech" thrown around, it's tough to know what's a gimmick and what will actually give you smooth, hair-free skin. The truth is, a few key features make all the difference in a device's safety and effectiveness. Understanding them is the first step to choosing a tool that works for your specific skin and hair type, helping you get the best possible results from the comfort of your home.

IPL vs. Diode Laser: What's the Difference?

Most at-home devices you'll find use Intense Pulsed Light, or IPL. This technology uses a broad spectrum of light that targets the dark pigment (melanin) in your hair follicles, heating them up to disrupt the growth cycle. A few newer at-home models use diode lasers, which emit a more concentrated, single wavelength of light to do the same job. While both can be effective, they are significantly less powerful than the medical-grade lasers used in a professional setting. Professional laser hair removal provides faster, more permanent results because the equipment is stronger and operated by a trained technician who can safely maximize its effectiveness.

Matching the Device to Your Skin Tone and Hair Color

This is probably the most important factor for both safety and results. Because these devices work by targeting the melanin in hair, they are most effective for people with the greatest contrast between their skin and hair color, such as light skin and dark hair. They generally don't work on blonde, red, gray, or white hair, as there isn't enough pigment for the light to target. More importantly, at-home devices can be risky for darker skin tones. According to experts, the device may struggle to distinguish between the pigment in the skin and the hair, potentially leading to burns, blisters, or discoloration.

Device Lifespan: Understanding "Flashes"

When you see a device advertised with "999,999 flashes," it's referring to its lifespan. Each "flash" is a pulse of light, and the total number indicates how many pulses the device can emit before the bulb runs out. While it sounds like a random, high number, it's a practical measure of longevity. A single full-body session can use several hundred flashes, so a higher count means the device will last much longer. Many of the best devices offer at least 200,000 flashes, which is more than enough for years of treatments. A device with "unlimited" flashes simply means it's built to last for a lifetime of use.

Decoding Intensity Levels and Treatment Modes

Most at-home laser hair removal devices come with multiple intensity levels, usually ranging from three to five settings. This feature allows you to customize the treatment to your comfort level and the area you're treating. Lower settings are ideal for more sensitive spots like the bikini line or for when you're just starting out. Higher settings deliver more energy to the follicle and can produce faster results, but they might also cause more discomfort (often described as a rubber band snap). It's always best to start on the lowest setting and gradually work your way up as your skin gets accustomed to the sensation.

Do You Need Cooling Technology for Comfort?

While not strictly necessary for results, cooling technology is a feature that dramatically improves the treatment experience. Many newer devices have a built-in metal plate or a fan that actively cools the skin right after each flash of light. This "ice cooling" function helps soothe the skin instantly, minimizing the stinging sensation and reducing any post-treatment redness or irritation. If you have sensitive skin or a low pain tolerance, a device with a cooling feature can be a game-changer. It makes the process far more comfortable, which means you're more likely to stick with your treatment schedule consistently.

Why FDA Clearance Is a Must-Have

When you're using a powerful light-based device on your skin, safety should be your top priority. That's why you should only ever purchase a device that is explicitly listed as FDA-cleared. This designation means the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reviewed the device and determined it to be substantially equivalent to another legally marketed device in terms of safety and effectiveness. While it's not the same as FDA approval (a more rigorous process for high-risk devices), FDA clearance is the standard for at-home cosmetic tools. It’s your assurance that the device meets basic safety standards when used as directed.

The Top-Rated At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices

If you’ve decided to try at-home laser hair removal, you’ve probably noticed the market is flooded with options. It can be tough to figure out which devices are genuinely effective and which are just clever marketing. To help you sort through the noise, I’ve compiled a list of the most highly-rated devices that users and reviewers consistently praise. Each one has unique strengths, whether it’s speed, comfort, or suitability for a specific hair type.

Remember, while these tools offer convenience, they don’t deliver the same permanent, powerful results as professional treatments. In-office procedures use medical-grade lasers that are stronger and more precise, leading to more significant and lasting hair reduction. If you’re aiming for the most effective, long-term solution, exploring professional laser hair removal is always your best bet. However, if you’re set on the at-home route for maintenance or lighter hair removal, these devices are the best place to start your search.

1. Braun Silk Expert Pro 5

The Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 consistently earns top marks as the best overall device, and for good reason. Its standout feature is the "Smart SkinProtect" sensor, which automatically reads your skin tone 80 times per second and adjusts the intensity level for you. This takes the guesswork out of finding the right setting and adds a layer of safety. With 10 power levels, it’s versatile enough for different body areas. Reviewers often report seeing a noticeable reduction in hair in as little as four weeks, making it one of the fastest-acting IPL devices available for home use.

2. Ulike Sapphire Air3

If you plan on treating your entire body, the Ulike Sapphire Air3 is a fantastic choice. Its main selling point is the built-in cooling technology, which keeps the device’s head chilled to minimize discomfort during sessions. This makes treating larger or more sensitive areas much more pleasant. It also features an "auto glide" mode, so you can slide it over your skin without having to press the button for every flash. With unlimited flashes and the ability to treat your whole body in about 12 minutes, it’s designed for speed, comfort, and efficiency.

3. Nood The Flasher 2.0

For those dealing with stubborn, coarse hair, Nood’s The Flasher 2.0 is a powerful contender. It uses strong light technology specifically designed to target the hair root effectively, which is why many users find it works well on thicker hair types. The device also has a large treatment window, which helps you cover more ground in less time; most sessions can be completed in around 10 minutes. It’s a popular choice for anyone who has tried other methods without success and is looking for a device with a bit more power behind each flash.

4. Philips Lumea Prestige

If you’re new to at-home laser hair removal and feeling a little intimidated, the Philips Lumea Prestige is an excellent starting point. It’s known for being incredibly user-friendly, with built-in safety sensors that prevent it from flashing unless it has full contact with your skin at the right tone. What really makes it a beginner-friendly device is its companion app. The app helps you create a personalized treatment schedule for each body area and sends reminders, so you can stay consistent and get the best possible results without having to track everything yourself.

5. Jovs Venus Pro II

The Jovs Venus Pro II is packed with innovative features that make it one of the most versatile devices on the market. It includes a 180-degree rotating head, which is a game-changer for targeting tricky areas like your knees, ankles, and bikini line with precision. It also uses a stronger form of IPL called Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) for more effective treatments. The device comes with six different attachment heads designed for specific body parts, along with a cooling system that keeps your skin comfortable. It’s a great all-in-one tool for detailed, full-body treatments.

6. Remington iLight

If you’re curious about at-home laser hair removal but hesitant to spend a lot, the Remington iLight offers a great balance of performance and affordability. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the premium models, it’s an FDA-cleared device that delivers solid results without a hefty price tag. It’s a reliable workhorse that has been on the market for a while, earning its reputation as one of the best budget-friendly options. This makes it an accessible entry point for anyone wanting to see if at-home IPL is the right fit for them.

Is At-Home Laser Hair Removal Safe for Your Skin Tone?

When you’re considering at-home laser hair removal, safety should be your top priority. The effectiveness and safety of these devices are directly linked to your specific skin tone and hair color. The technology works by targeting the dark pigment, or melanin, in your hair. For the device to work correctly, it needs to be able to distinguish the hair from the surrounding skin. A strong contrast, like dark hair on light skin, gives the laser a clear target.

If there isn’t enough contrast, the device can get confused. It might struggle to find the hair, making it ineffective, or worse, it could accidentally target the pigment in your skin. This can lead to unwanted side effects like burns, discoloration, or even scarring. That’s why understanding where your skin tone falls on the spectrum is the first and most important step before you even think about adding a device to your cart. While at-home options are convenient, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For many, professional aesthetic services provide a safer and more reliable path to smooth, hair-free skin.

What Is the Fitzpatrick Scale?

You’ll often hear the Fitzpatrick scale mentioned in the context of laser treatments. It’s simply a classification system that helps categorize different skin tones based on how they react to UV light. The scale ranges from Type 1 (very fair skin that always burns) to Type 6 (deeply pigmented dark skin that never burns). Most at-home laser hair removal devices are designed to work best on Fitzpatrick types 1 through 4.

This is because the significant contrast between lighter skin and dark hair allows the device’s light energy to zero in on the hair follicle without affecting the skin. It’s also why these devices are not effective on blonde, red, gray, or white hair; there just isn’t enough melanin in the hair for the laser to target.

The Best Devices for Darker Skin Tones

If you have a darker skin tone, typically a Fitzpatrick type 5 or 6, you need to be especially careful with at-home laser devices. Because there is more melanin in your skin, the device can have a hard time telling the difference between the pigment in your skin and the pigment in your hair. This confusion can cause the laser to heat the skin itself, potentially leading to burns, blisters, or changes in skin pigmentation (dark or light spots).

While some newer at-home devices claim to be safe for darker skin, the risk is still much higher than with professional treatments. For this reason, we strongly recommend that individuals with darker skin tones consult a professional. An experienced provider at a med spa uses advanced lasers with technology specifically designed to protect darker skin while effectively targeting hair.

The Best Devices for Lighter Skin Tones

If you have a lighter skin tone (Fitzpatrick types 1-4) and dark hair, you are the ideal candidate for most at-home laser hair removal devices. The majority of these gadgets use either Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or a diode laser. Both technologies work on the same principle: they send a pulse of light energy that gets absorbed by the dark melanin in your hair. This light converts to heat, which damages the hair follicle at the root and helps prevent it from growing back. The clear contrast between your hair and skin makes it easy for the device to work effectively without harming the surrounding tissue, giving you a good chance at achieving great results from the comfort of your home.

Patch Testing: The One Step You Can't Skip

No matter your skin tone or how confident you are that a device is right for you, you should never skip the patch test. This is a non-negotiable safety step. Before you treat a large area like your leg or arm, test the device on a small, inconspicuous patch of skin. Follow the device’s instructions and wait a full 24 to 48 hours to see how your skin reacts. If you notice any blistering, burns, or significant pain, stop using the device immediately. A little bit of redness right after treatment can be normal, but anything more is a sign that the device isn’t compatible with your skin. This simple test can save you from widespread irritation or more serious injury.

What Results Can You Realistically Expect?

So, you've got your device and you're ready for silky-smooth skin. But what does the journey actually look like? While at-home laser hair removal can deliver great results, it's more of a marathon than a sprint. Your final outcome will depend on your unique hair and skin type, the area you're treating, and most importantly, how consistent you are with your sessions. Let's break down what you can realistically expect, from your first treatment to your final result.

Your Session-by-Session Results Timeline

Patience is your best friend on this journey. You won't see every hair disappear after just one session. Most people start to notice a difference, like finer or slower-growing hair, within the first one to four weeks of starting treatment. For the most significant, lasting reduction, you'll want to stick with your treatment plan for up to 12 weeks. Think of it as a gradual fading process rather than an instant fix. Each session builds on the last, leading you closer to the smooth skin you're aiming for.

Which Body Areas Respond Best to Treatment?

These devices are designed to be quite versatile. You can typically use them on your legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and even certain parts of your face. The technology works by sending light energy to the hair root, which damages the follicle and slows down regrowth over time. This is what leaves your skin feeling smoother for longer periods compared to shaving or waxing. Because the goal is to target the root beneath the skin, it's an effective method for both large and small areas alike.

How Hair and Skin Contrast Affects Your Results

This is probably the most important factor for success with at-home devices. They work best when there's a strong contrast between your skin and hair color, like light skin and dark hair. This allows the device to easily find and target the pigment in the hair follicle without affecting the surrounding skin. If you have a darker skin tone, at-home devices can struggle to tell the difference between pigment in your hair and skin, which can lead to ineffective results or potential side effects. For this reason, professional aesthetic services are often a safer and more effective choice for those with darker complexions.

Why Consistency Is Key

If you remember one thing, let it be this: consistency is everything. At-home laser hair removal isn't a one-time treatment. Each session only partially damages the hair follicle, so you need multiple treatments to achieve a significant reduction in hair growth. Sticking to a regular schedule as recommended by your device manufacturer is the only way to catch each hair in the right phase of its growth cycle. Skipping sessions or giving up too early will prevent you from seeing the results you want. Stay patient and dedicated to your routine.

How to Get the Most Out of Every Session

Whether you’re using an at-home device or investing in professional treatments, your results depend heavily on what you do before and after each session. Think of it as a partnership: the laser does the heavy lifting, but your prep and aftercare ensure the process is smooth, safe, and effective. Following a few simple guidelines can make a world of difference in achieving that silky, hair-free skin you’re after.

Proper preparation helps the laser find its target, the hair follicle, without any interference. It also minimizes the risk of irritation. After your session, your skin will be more sensitive, so a gentle aftercare routine is essential for healing and protecting your results. While these tips apply to at-home use, working with a professional ensures you receive expert guidance tailored to your skin. At Brunswick Internal Medicine Group, our aesthetic services team walks you through every step, so you can feel confident and cared for from start to finish.

How to Prep Before Your Session

Getting your skin ready for laser hair removal is simple but crucial. First, shave the treatment area the day before your session. This allows the laser to access the follicle directly beneath the skin's surface without wasting energy on the hair above it. Next, avoid all forms of tanning, including self-tanners, for at least two weeks beforehand. Extra pigment in your skin can confuse the laser, causing it to target your skin instead of the hair, which can lead to discoloration or burns. Finally, pause your use of any harsh skincare products like retinoids or acid-based cleansers on the area for a few days prior to treatment to reduce sensitivity.

Tips for During Your Session

Your top priority during any laser session is safety. If you're using a device at home, always perform a patch test on a small, discreet area of skin 24 to 48 hours before tackling a larger section. This simple step confirms your skin won't have an adverse reaction to the treatment. Many at-home devices and all professional lasers come with built-in cooling technology. This feature is a game-changer for comfort, as it cools the skin immediately before and after each pulse of light, making the "zap" feel much more manageable. When you visit a Med Spa, a trained technician handles all of this for you, ensuring the settings are perfect for your skin and the process is as comfortable as possible.

Aftercare Essentials: Sun Protection and Skincare

After a laser session, your skin needs a little extra TLC. The most important rule is to avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for up to two weeks. Your skin will be more vulnerable to UV damage, and sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation. If you must be in the sun, be diligent about applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to any treated areas. You might notice some mild redness or a sensation similar to a slight sunburn, which is completely normal. To soothe your skin, you can apply a gentle moisturizer, aloe vera gel, or even a mild hydrocortisone cream to calm any irritation.

Potential Side Effects and How to Stay Safe

Using a laser hair removal device at home can feel a little intimidating, and it’s smart to be cautious. While these tools are designed for consumer use, safety should always be your top priority. Understanding the potential side effects, from the very common and mild to the more serious, helps you make an informed decision. It also equips you with the knowledge to use your device correctly and protect your skin. Let’s walk through what you need to know to stay safe and get the best possible results.

Common (and Temporary) Side Effects

First, the good news: most side effects from at-home laser hair removal are minor and don't last long. It's normal to experience some redness, slight swelling, or a warm sensation in the treated area, similar to a mild sunburn. This usually fades within a few hours. To help your skin calm down, you can apply a soothing aloe vera gel or a cool compress after your session. Remember that seeing results takes time and consistency. Each treatment only targets hairs in a specific growth phase, so you’ll need to be patient and stick to a regular schedule to see a significant reduction in hair.

Serious Risks and How to Avoid Them

This is where paying close attention is crucial. The biggest risks with at-home devices involve skin tone. These tools work by targeting the melanin (pigment) in your hair. If you have a darker skin tone, the device can have trouble telling the difference between the pigment in your hair and the pigment in your skin. This can lead to burns, blisters, or changes in skin color. To stay safe, always perform a patch test on a small, discreet area 24 to 48 hours before treating a larger section. If you notice any adverse reaction, stop using the device. Also, be sure to avoid using it on tattoos, dark moles, or recently tanned skin. If you have any concerns, seeking professional guidance is always the safest bet.

Who Should Skip At-Home Laser Hair Removal?

At-home devices aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. They work best for people with a strong contrast between their skin and hair color, specifically light skin tones and dark hair. The laser needs dark pigment to effectively target and damage the hair follicle. Because of this, the devices are generally ineffective on blonde, red, gray, or white hair. If you have very light hair or a deep skin tone, you will likely be disappointed with the results and could even be putting your skin at risk. In these cases, it’s best to consult with a professional. A Med Spa can offer advanced laser technologies that are specifically designed to be safe and effective for a wider range of skin tones and hair colors.

When to See a Pro: The Case for Professional Laser Hair Removal

At-home laser hair removal devices can be a fantastic tool, but they aren’t the perfect solution for everyone. If you’ve been diligently zapping away with little to show for it, or if you’re worried about whether a device is safe for your skin, it might be time to consider professional treatment. Think of it less as giving up on your at-home efforts and more as making a strategic upgrade to get the results you really want.

Seeing a professional isn’t just about using a more powerful machine; it’s about putting your skin in the hands of a trained expert who understands the science behind hair removal. A technician can accurately assess your skin and hair type, customize the treatment intensity, and safely operate medical-grade equipment that isn't available for home use. This expertise is what makes professional aesthetic services the gold standard for achieving smooth, hair-free skin, especially when at-home methods fall short. If you’re looking for significant, lasting results with a focus on safety, going pro is often the smartest path forward.

You Have Stubborn Hair That Won't Budge

We all have those frustrating spots where hair seems to grow back with a vengeance, no matter what we do. For many, this includes areas with hormonal hair growth, like the upper lip, chin, or sideburns. If you've found that your at-home device just isn't making a dent in these stubborn areas, it’s likely because the technology isn't strong enough. Professional lasers are far more powerful and can deliver a concentrated beam of light that effectively destroys these resilient hair follicles at the root. This is why professional treatments are often more effective for tackling persistent facial or body hair that at-home IPL devices can't seem to handle.

Your Skin Tone Requires Expert Care

This is a big one. Most at-home laser devices work best on light to medium skin tones with dark hair. If you have a darker skin tone (typically a type V or VI on the Fitzpatrick scale), using an at-home device can be risky. These devices can struggle to distinguish the pigment in your hair from the pigment in your skin, which can lead to burns, blisters, or hyperpigmentation. For this reason, experts strongly recommend that individuals with darker skin tones seek professional treatment. A trained technician at a med spa will use advanced lasers specifically designed to safely target hair follicles on melanin-rich skin, ensuring a safe and effective treatment without damaging the surrounding tissue.

You Want Faster, More Lasting Results

While at-home devices can reduce hair over time, the results often require constant upkeep. If your goal is the most significant and long-lasting hair reduction possible, professional treatments are the clear winner. The powerful, medical-grade lasers used in a clinic setting deliver quicker and more thorough results, meaning you’ll need fewer sessions overall to become virtually hair-free. Professional treatments offer a permanent reduction in hair, and while you might need a touch-up session every year or so, it’s a world away from the weekly schedule required by many at-home devices. This makes it a more efficient and effective long-term solution for smooth skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is at-home laser hair removal really permanent? Think of at-home devices as providing long-term hair reduction, not permanent removal. They work by damaging the hair follicle, so over time, the hair that does grow back is often much finer, lighter, and less noticeable. However, because the technology is less powerful than what you’d find in a professional’s office, you will likely need consistent maintenance sessions to keep your skin smooth. For a more significant and lasting result, professional treatments are the most effective option.

I have a darker skin tone. Is it truly unsafe for me to use an at-home device? Yes, it is a significant risk. At-home devices can struggle to tell the difference between the pigment in your skin and the pigment in your hair. This can cause the device to target your skin, potentially leading to burns, blisters, or discoloration. For your safety and to get results you’ll love, I strongly recommend seeing a professional. A trained technician uses advanced lasers with specific settings that are designed to safely and effectively treat darker skin tones.

How much does laser hair removal actually hurt? Most people describe the sensation as a quick, warm snap, similar to a rubber band hitting your skin. Your personal comfort level will depend on your pain tolerance and the area you are treating. Many modern devices, both at-home and professional, include cooling technology that soothes the skin instantly after each pulse of light, which makes the process much more comfortable. If you're using a device at home, always start on the lowest intensity setting and work your way up.

What happens if I stop using my at-home device? Will all the hair just grow back? If you stop your treatments, some hair will eventually grow back. At-home devices require consistency to disable the hair follicles over time. When you stop, any follicles that weren't fully treated will eventually start producing hair again. The good news is that the regrowth is usually not as dense or coarse as it was before you started. To maintain your results, you’ll need to plan for occasional touch-up sessions.

Why do I have to shave before a session instead of waxing or plucking? The laser needs to "see" the hair follicle to work, so the root must be present beneath the skin. Shaving cuts the hair at the surface while leaving the root perfectly intact for the laser to target. Methods like waxing, plucking, or epilating pull the entire hair out from the root. If you do that, there is nothing left for the laser to target, and your session will be completely ineffective.