Introduction
The best IPL hair removal device is no longer limited to salons or dermatology clinics. In 2025, at-home models have advanced to the point where they deliver smooth, lasting results for UK users who are tired of endless shaving or pricey waxing sessions.
To make this guide practical, we compared the latest launches from leading brands, looked at how they perform on different skin tones, and weighed up value across the UK market. You will see which devices stand out for comfort, ease of use, and effectiveness, alongside tips to use them safely at home.
Table of content
What Is IPL & How Does It Work?
IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light, is a technology used in many at-home hair removal devices. It emits broad-spectrum light that targets the pigment in hair follicles. When absorbed, the light heats the follicle and interrupts the hair growth cycle.
With regular use, IPL can slow hair regrowth and help skin feel smoother over time. Most people notice initial results within three to four weeks, while consistent treatments over several months provide the most noticeable reduction. Safety features such as adjustable power levels and skin tone sensors make at-home devices suitable for a range of skin types when instructions are followed.
Why Choose IPL Over Laser?
Compared to salon lasers, at-home laser hair removal offers:
- Cost-effective: A one-time purchase (£300-£400) vs. £50–£100 for one body part per salon session (8-12 sessions)
- Long-term results: 96% hair reduction in 2 weeks and consistent touch up for long term result
- Convenience: No appointments, no long way travel, entirely private.
- Skin Improvement: Even skin tone, texture, and lessens fine lines and dark spots
Best IPL Hair Removal Devices in 2025
Choosing the right device depends on your skin tone, hair type, budget, and the areas you plan to treat. The table below highlights standout models this year based on performance, comfort, and usability:
| Device | Best For | Price Tier | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulike Air 10 | Comfort and fast results | Premium | Sapphire ice-cooling plate, dual-light IPL |
| Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 | Balanced all-rounder | Premium | Automatic skin tone sensor |
| Ulike Air 3 | Value option with cooling | Mid-range | Compact, beginner-friendly |
| Philips Lumea 9900 | Large areas, full-body | Premium | Cordless with wide window |
| JOVS Venus Pro II | Versatility and skincare | Premium | Rotating head + multi-mode |
| SmoothSkin Pure Fit | Budget-friendly choice | Budget | Simple but consistent results |
Spotlight on Ulike Air 10
The Ulike Air 10 is a 2025 model designed for at-home IPL use. It combines dual-light IPL with a cooling plate to help make sessions more manageable, even on sensitive areas like the bikini line or underarms. Compared with older models or other devices in its class, it offers features that aim to balance comfort and efficiency.
Key Features
- Sapphire Ice-Cooling Plate: Helps reduce heat during treatment, making it easier to use on sensitive skin.
- Dual-Light IPL: Targets hair follicles effectively to support noticeable reduction in regrowth over time.
- Automatic Skin Tone Sensor: Adjusts intensity based on skin tone to maintain safe usage.
- Fast Glide Mode: Covers larger areas more quickly, which can save time on full-body sessions.
Pros
- Sessions feel more manageable on sensitive skin
- Can show visible reduction in hair growth within several weeks
- Compact design that is easy to handle for most users
- Certified safe for home use in the UK
Cons
- Less effective on very dark skin or very light hair
- Requires regular sessions to maintain results
- Higher initial cost than basic hair removal methods
How It Compares
The Air 10 focuses on balancing comfort and treatment efficiency. Cooling technology can make longer sessions more tolerable, and dual-light IPL may provide faster visible results compared with simpler devices.
For someone prioritizing comfort and consistent outcomes at home, it offers features that can make hair removal easier and more predictable.
Ulike Journey – Before & After
Mary Honkus tested the Ulike Air 3 laser hair removal device in Cosmopolitan. She had a very good experience with it. Initially, she was not sure about using home laser devices.
Nonetheless, she found the Ulike Air 3 simple to operate. Its instructions are simple to follow. It comes with helpful accessories like a razor, goggles, and a storage bag. The device's cooling technology and adjustable intensity made treatments comfortable.
Honkus noticed clear results after just 10 sessions in five weeks. Each session took 30 to 40 minutes and worked the whole body twice a week. He noticed slower-growing hair, patchy regions, and bald patches.
She wishes she had attempted at-home IPL earlier since it's cheaper and more efficient than salon visits. Her conclusion? The Ulike Air 3 is a lifesaver for maintaining long-term smoothness. Still, it is not worth the effort for summer-ready skin.
Key takeaways:
Simple to use with user-friendly features.
Comforting (cooling technology, pain-free).
Works—measurable decrease in hair growth/thickness.
It is time-consuming but well worth the effort for enduring results.
It's an affordable substitute for a professional laser.
Don't take our word for it—actual users adore their transformations! From recalcitrant leg hair to bikini-line fuzz, before-and-after photos demonstrate miraculous reductions in regrowth. Some have even reported weeks of hair-free skin with no razor!
Braun Silk-expert Pro 5
The Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 is designed as an all-rounder for at-home IPL use. It automatically adjusts light intensity based on your skin tone, which can make treatments easier to manage without constantly changing settings. Its attachments allow coverage of different areas, including legs, face, and underarms.
Key Features
- SensoAdapt Technology: Automatically adapts light intensity to your skin tone for safer use.
- Multiple Attachments: Optimized for different body areas to make full-body sessions more convenient.
- Fast Treatment Mode: Covers larger areas quickly to reduce session time.
Pros
- Reliable performance across most body areas
- Smart sensor helps reduce the risk of irritation
- Well-supported in the UK with easy availability
Cons
- Higher cost compared with mid-range devices
- Sessions can feel warmer than devices with active cooling
- Bulkier design makes it less portable
How It Compares
The Braun Pro 5 prioritizes speed and versatility. While it does not have a cooling plate like the Ulike Air 10, its automatic skin tone sensor can make treatments feel safer and more consistent. It is a good choice for users who want an efficient, adaptable device and are comfortable with slightly warmer sessions.
Philips Lumea 9900
The Philips Lumea 9900 is designed for full-body treatments and provides app-guided support to help users follow a consistent schedule. Its cordless design and multiple attachments make it suitable for both small and large areas, giving flexibility during sessions.
Key Features
- Cordless Design: Offers more freedom of movement while treating different body areas.
- Multiple Attachments: Includes heads optimized for face, body, and sensitive areas.
- App Guidance: Provides treatment schedules and step-by-step instructions for consistency.
Pros
- Flexible cordless use for different treatment areas
- Attachments make it easier to target both small and large zones
- App support helps beginners stay on track with treatments
Cons
- Higher price point than mid-range options
- Larger size can be less convenient for small areas
- No active cooling system, so sessions may feel warmer on sensitive skin
How It Compares
Philips Lumea 9900 focuses on convenience and guided use. While it lacks a cooling plate like the Ulike Air 10, the app and attachments provide structure that may be useful for first-time users or those who prefer detailed guidance during at-home treatments.
JOVS Venus Pro II
The JOVS Venus Pro II is a versatile at-home IPL device with a rotating head and multiple modes for hair removal and additional skincare treatments, such as tightening or rejuvenation. It is suitable for users looking for a device that combines hair removal with extra skin care functionality.
Key Features
- Rotating Head: Helps reach tricky areas like underarms, knees, and ankles.
- Multi-Function Modes: Includes settings for hair removal and other skin treatments.
- Ergonomic Design: Designed for easier handling during longer sessions.
Pros
- Offers versatility for both hair removal and skin care goals
- Rotating head improves access to difficult-to-reach areas
- Sleek design with comfortable handling
Cons
- Mixed results when using non-hair removal modes
- Larger body can make quick sessions less convenient
- Higher price compared with standard IPL devices
How It Compares
The Venus Pro II is ideal for those seeking a multifunction device. While it offers more options beyond hair removal, it may not be as focused or comfortable as the Ulike Air 10 or as fast as Braun for full-body hair removal.
SmoothSkin Pure Fit
The SmoothSkin Pure Fit is a budget-friendly at-home IPL device. It is compact, straightforward to use, and designed for users who want consistent hair reduction without premium features or a high price.
Key Features
- Unlimited Flashes: Provides long-term use without worrying about bulb replacements.
- Fast Flash Rate: Helps cover larger areas efficiently.
- Compact Design: Easy to handle and store.
Pros
- Affordable compared with premium devices
- Consistent performance over time
- Quick treatment sessions on larger areas
Cons
- No active cooling, so sessions may feel warmer on sensitive skin
- Fewer advanced features compared with devices like Ulike or Braun
- Results may take longer on coarse hair
How It Compares
The Pure Fit is suitable for budget-conscious users who want reliable hair reduction. While it lacks cooling technology and premium features, it still delivers consistent results for regular users. For those prioritizing comfort or faster outcomes, devices like Ulike Air 10 or Braun Pro 5 may be better options.
Which IPL Device Should You Choose?
Choosing the right IPL device comes down to what matters most in your routine. If you want sessions to feel gentler on sensitive areas, the Ulike Air 10 provides a cooling plate and dual-light technology to make treatments more comfortable. For users who want to move quickly through larger areas, the Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 adapts automatically to skin tone and covers the body efficiently.
Those watching their budget might find the SmoothSkin Pure Fit a reliable option, offering consistent hair reduction without extra features. Beginners who appreciate guidance can benefit from the Philips Lumea 9900, which pairs with an app to create a personalized treatment schedule. And if you’re interested in a device that also offers skin care functions, the JOVS Venus Pro II provides multiple modes and a rotating head for tricky areas.
No matter which device you choose, results come from regular use and following safety guidelines. Over time, consistent treatments can significantly reduce hair regrowth and keep your skin smooth with minimal fuss.
Safety First: What You Need to Know
Possible Side Effects
Most people have minor redness or warmth (such as a temporary sunburn), which also passes quickly. To remain safe:
1. First, do a patch test
2. Stay away from the sun after treatment
3. Apply calming aloe vera if necessary
Can You Use It on Sensitive Areas?
Yes! Ulike is gentle enough for the face and bikini area, but:
1. Start at the lowest setting
2. Do not apply broken skin or moles
3. Never apply to the eyes
IPL for Men: Does It Work on Male Body Hair?
Gentlemen, the IPL device is not exclusive to the ladies! Frustrated with razor burns, ingrown hairs, or costly salon visits? IPL might be a good solution for thicker, coarser hair for men. The Ulike machine is especially great for:
Chest & back – No longer embarrassing shaving or waxing time.
Neck & beard region – Goodbye to persistent stubble.
Arms & legs – Great for athletes or those who like smoother skin.
Pro tip: Men’s hair is denser, so start with higher settings (if comfortable) and be consistent for best results.
How to Use Your Ulike IPL Device: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Like a Pro
Shave first (yes, definitely!). Allows light to target follicles, not surface hair.
Clean skin – Avoid oils, lotions, or deodorant for best contact.
2. Treat with Care
Begin low – Utilize Soft mode on sensitive spots (face, bikini line).
Glide & flash – Press the device flat, then pulse. Don't overlap!
Cool down – Calm skin with aloe vera after treatment.
3. Keep It Consistent
First 8 weeks: Every 2 weeks.
Maintenance: Only once a month (or less!).
FAQs About At-Home IPL Hair Removal
What is IPL hair removal?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses broad-spectrum light to target hair pigment. Over time, it slows regrowth and helps skin stay smooth.
Do home IPL devices work?
Yes. With consistent use, at-home IPL can reduce hair growth. Results vary by hair color, skin tone, and adherence to the treatment schedule.
Is IPL hair removal permanent?
IPL does not permanently remove hair, but it can significantly slow regrowth. Occasional top-up sessions help maintain smooth skin.
Which brand of IPL hair removal is best?
Top options include Ulike, Braun, Philips, and JOVS. Choose based on comfort, treatment speed, features, and budget.
Can IPL be used on dark skin?
Most at-home devices are safest on lighter to medium skin tones with darker hair. Some premium models support a wider range of skin tones.
Does IPL hurt?
Most users feel a brief warm snap. Devices with cooling features, like the Ulike Air 10, make sessions more comfortable.
How do I get the best results?
Shave before each session, follow the recommended schedule, avoid sun exposure after treatments, and perform top-up sessions as needed.
Choosing the Right IPL for You
Choosing the best IPL hair removal device depends on your goals, skin tone, and comfort preferences. Devices like the Ulike Air 10 combine cooling technology and effective pulses, making treatments more comfortable for sensitive areas. Braun and Philips offer speed and versatility, while budget options like SmoothSkin still deliver noticeable results over time.
At-home IPL works best when used consistently and according to the instructions. Shaving before sessions, following the recommended schedule, and performing occasional top-ups will help you maintain smooth skin without frequent salon visits. With the right device and routine, achieving lasting hair reduction at home in 2025 is practical, safe, and cost-effective.
Want to give the Best IPL Hair Removal Device a go?
Related Readings
- At-Home vs. Professional Laser Hair Removal: Benefits & Tips
- How to Choose the Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device for You (Real Talk)
- The Dermatologist-Recommended At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device
- Ulike Reviews 2025: What Real Users Say (Trustpilot,Youtube)
- Is the Ulike Air 10 Worth It? Review of Features & Results
- Best IPL Hair Removal Devices and Laser Machines in the UK for 2025
- Ulike Air 10: The Best At Home Laser Hair Removal Tool of 2025?
