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Elle
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Elle
I Hate Stick-on Bras, but These Nipple Covers Are Surprisingly Perfect
Should I talk about my sister's bra preferences on the internet? Probably not—but respecting boundaries isn't really in her wheelhouse anyway, so whatever. She loves a sticky bra. You'll never catch her on a weekend trip or overnight without one in her bag. But for me, they've never really worked. Where she knows all things sticky bra, I know the best nipple covers. Two sisters, two walks of life. No Bra, No Problem Essentials When it comes to backless dresses, halter tops, or otherwise tricky ensembles, you simply have to have a bra alternative in your arsenal. Because for all the good that bras do us, sometimes they're just the absolute worst. Ahead, find the top nine nipple covers that won't let you down. Now, a sentence that would get me sent straight to HR if I worked anywhere other than a fashion publication: I know for a fact that my boss hates bras. For digital director Claire Stern Milch, it's got to be Nood. And I get the hype, too. This brand does bra solutions like no other—seriously. Sizes: 3 inches, 4 inches Colors: Buff, Soft Tan, Bronze, Espresso, Wild Side Customer review: 'These are 100 percent worth the money. They are the best I have ever used and are actually reusable. They stay in place, are painless to remove, and don't irritate my skin. Ten times better than cheaper alternatives.' I could sing about these from the mountaintops. They are so damn good and a personal go-to. I always have these in my bra drawer. No matter which cover you decide to purchase, I highly recommend Gatherall's easy-to-use (and pack) cleaning papers as the perfect accompaniment to any boobish accoutrement. Sizes: OS Colors: Cream, Latte, Mocha, Noir Customer review: 'I cannot express enough how much I love these! These nipple covers shape, LIFT (depending on how I place them on), and cover! And stay put. I feel braless but with nice shape!' Although I haven't tried these yet, they are next on my list. Why? Because they're available in the standard circle shape seen here, but they also come in another silhouette that's designed to offer lift. Sizes: 1, 2, 3 Colors: Caramel, Crème, Coco, Espresso, Hazelnut Customer review: 'These are great! I just bought another pair after using my current ones for three years. It says up to 20 uses, but I have probably used them 100 times.' Is it TMI to tell you I'm wearing Cakes as I write this? Too late. These reign supreme when it comes to non-adhesive covers in quality and in popularity. Plus, the company has donated over $1 million to breast cancer research. Sizes: Itty Bitty, OG, Plus Colors: Honey, Caramel, Cocoa Customer review: 'I'm in my 50s and post-menopause. I wear them often, even if I'm staying home and wearing a cami, because I want to look appropriate when others are around—or maybe I'm just obsessed with them! I tell everyone I know about this wonderful product. Cakes have been a game changer for me.' I have seen firsthand how brutal Amazon reviewers can be, so when I find a product with a cult following and rave testimonials, I pay attention. Shoppers are certifiably obsessed with this budget brand. Sizes: Medium, Large Colors: Crème, Caramel, Coco Customer review: 'They were completely invisible under every outfit I tried—tight tops, light-colored dresses, even a silky camisole. No lines, no weird shapes, nothing! The adhesive is strong but gentle, staying in place all night without slipping, even through dancing and warm weather. If you need a discreet, reliable solution for tricky outfits, these are a game-changer!' As much as I love covers, sometimes my boobs need more direction. By that, I mean they need to be lifted, pulled, and situated in such a way that only tape can manage. This bundle from Threads is a great option that includes both covers and tape to use together. Sizes: OS Colors: N1/N2, N3/N4, Black Customer review: 'I love the size of this tape. It's wider than ones I've used before, which means I use a lot less of the roll and it goes a lot further. Super sticky as well—lasted all day and night at 12+ hour weddings. Will be repurchasing for sure.' I'm completely obsessed with Neats referring to these as 'anti-paparazzi' because they're matte enough to avoid reflecting in photographs. I just hate when those photogs chase me! Sizes: S/M, L/XL Colors: Almond, Caramel, Champagne, Mocha, Pearl Customer review: 'I had an older version of a different company and they were heavy and thick, which made it look unnatural. But these are thin, work very well, sticky (and easy to clean) and look like there's nothing on me. I already used it for a full day of events including dancing and they did not move or make me uncomfortable. Great price for a reliable product.' For all you petal people who like more of a bandage application, these are made with polyester. They are disposable and not recommended for customers with sensitive skin. Sizes: OS Colors: Ecru Customer review: 'Love the way it sticks and holds everything together. I wear with my non-padded swimsuits and the results are amazing! Definitely recommend!' Why exactly does this bestselling five-pack come on a keychain? I can't say. Bag charm! What I do know is these use latex-free adhesive, making them allergy-friendly. Sizes: OS Colors: Semi-Sheer Customer review: 'An absolute necessity!' As you might have surmised, the difference between these two is all in the stickiness. That is, adhesive nipple covers are sticky, and non-adhesive ones are not. But how do you decide which one is right for you? Here's the breakdown: Every product featured on is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
Business Insider
26-06-2025
- Health
- Business Insider
I wore these viral nipple covers in a heat wave to see if they were sweatproof — now they're my favorite bra alternative
As I write this, New York City is finally experiencing some relief after a "heat dome" descended with the summer solstice. It was stiflingly hot for a few days, and all I could tolerate on my body was a silk slip dress from Quince, loose T-shirts, and these nipple covers from Cakes Body. I bought flimsy drugstore nipple covers before investing in a reusable ones, but I hate knowing they'll take forever to degrade in a landfill. More recently I was wearing pasties from Nood, but they lose their stickiness and shape after a while. The Sticky Cakes, my most recent discovery, are far and away the best pair I've tried. Yes, they're over $30 a pair, but as a word to all my small-chested friends out there: they're worth it. What Cakes nipple covers are like to wear It's been about two months of wearing these nipple covers about 3 or 4 times a week, and they're so much better than single-use pasties. I've tested out two kinds of Cakes Body nipple covers. The Grippy Cakes in size "itty bitty" are my go-to because they're smaller, adhesive-free, and just cover my nipples, which is often all I need. They're thin silicone circles that grip my skin and stay put with my body heat. They're better for fitted tops, but I've worn them under loose dresses and they worked just fine. I can actually forget I have them on, they're so comfortable. I even tested their waterproof ability at the pool, and they still stayed in place. The Sticky Cakes in size "OG" are larger and encompass almost my entire boob. They use a sweatproof adhesive that has stuck to my skin and refused to slide off, even as I walked around in a heat wave in a silk slip dress. In their centers are small, adhesive-free circles the brand calls "Nip Nooks," so peeling them off is painless. I like these better for loose-fitting tops because once they're on, they're on. Who are these nipple covers are for? A little bit of background on the brand: Cakes Body was founded by twin sisters Taylor Capuano and Casey Capuano Sarai. They made a deal on these bra alternatives when they appeared on Shark Tank in 2024. The Cakes Body nipple covers are a fashion-focused solution that allows people to wear backless tops and sheer tops, as long as you're comfortable with forgoing underwire. That said, these may not work for you if you have a large cup size and need the support only a bra can give. That said, I've found great relief in not having to plan my outfit around a bra anymore. I'm size 34B and have told my other small-chested friends why I choose nipple covers, explaining how I don't miss the padded push-up bras and have instead learned to embrace my small boobs. I don't have the cleavage to fill out low-cut tops now that I've sworn off bras, but I rather be comfortable. The bottom line If you too are a card-carrying member of the "itty-bitty titty committee," I suggest you ditch your bras and start wearing these nipple covers from Cakes Body instead. They feel great, look totally invisible under thin fabrics, and they don't slide off from sweat, even in 105 degree weather. As someone who prefers to go braless but loves a sheer blouse in summertime, these are the best solution I've found. Shop all nipple covers and bra solutions from Cakes Body here.
Forbes
24-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Nood The Flasher 2.0 Review: Effective Laser Hair Removal With Consistent Use
I first began shaving my legs in middle school, and I've been plagued by a lifelong battle with hair removal ever since. While I have enviably thick hair on my head, the corresponding coarse hair on my legs has always seemed profoundly unfair. I've undergone professional laser hair removal treatments, but over time that requires maintenance. So I tried out Nood's The Flasher 2.0, an IPL hair removal device, which targets the pigment in your hair follicles, damages the roots and inhibits hair regrowth. It promises to permanently remove hair in as little as eight weeks. While I didn't see extreme changes in that time period, I noticed less hair and slower regrowth. During testing, I found the Nood Flasher 2.0 to be easy to use, and it permanently removed hair with ... More committed, regular use. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Vetted Professional, in-office hair removal treatments are typically done in a series of three to six sessions and cost $200 to $900 per session. At $199, Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is well priced for a beauty device, and it requires 10-minute treatments twice per week—from the comfort and privacy of home. After using it for eight weeks, I have found this comfortable to use and I can see noticeable hair reduction, but it has required patience. I'm optimistic, though, that this will be a great device for maintenance over the long term. If you're looking to remove hair from your legs, underarms or bikini line, Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is a worthwhile, cost-effective pick. Nood Nood The Flasher 2.0 Flashes: 600,000 | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 7 | FDA-cleared: Yes Best for: Treatment in as little as 10 minutes Those with dark blond, brown or black hair and fair to light skin tones Being effective on coarse hair Skip if: You want immediate gratification—it can take 8 weeks to see results You have light hair and light skin tone or brown or black hair and dark skin tone How The Nood Flasher 2.0 Works Handheld Device That's Easy To Use The Nood Flasher 2.0 is an ergonomically designed device with a power cord that must be plugged in during use. The cord is more than eight feet long to allow for maximum reach. Turning on the device is simple—you hold the side button to power it on and press it to toggle to the desired intensity level. Depending on the size of the area you're addressing, treatment can take anywhere from about ten minutes to fifteen minutes. The company recommends using it two times per week for eight weeks, with ongoing maintenance as needed. IPL—or Intense Pulsed Light—hair removal isn't effective on all skin and hair combinations, and it requires contrast between the melanin in the skin and melanin in the hair to work well. The best candidates for the Nood Flasher 2.0 have dark blond, brown or black hair along with a fair, light, medium or medium-dark skin tone—types I through IV with the Fitzpatrick Skin Score. To prevent adverse reactions or side effects—which many include skin rash, itchy skin, skin discoloration, burns, scarring, migraines and spotty vision—Nood recommends doing an approximately week-long skin safety test before use. Adjustable Intensity Levels And Modes The Nood Flasher 2.0 has an easy-to-read-LED screen that indicates the treatment level (from 1 to 7) and the number of flashes remaining on the device. (It starts at 600,000 and counts down.) The flash window is 1.25 inches long by 0.4 inches wide, which is an effective size for quickly covering areas like the underarms or bikini line, while it takes a bit longer to larger areas like the legs. You can choose to have the device on continuous glide mode, which means it emits light pulses automatically as you move it across the skin, or manual mode, which means it will flash when you press the flash button. The flash window on Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is small enough to maneuver easily, but large enough to ... More cover skin surface area relatively quickly. Molly Calhoun For Forbes When you power the Nood Flasher 2.0 on, it hums and sounds like a small fan. For effective treatment, the flash window should be lightly and evenly pressed to the skin at a 90-degree angle. The brand recommends flashing over an entire treatment area two times per session, paying careful attention to move the device at even intervals across the skin so you don't miss a spot and end up with remaining patches of hair. It's advised not to press the device too hard against the skin to prevent burns. FDA-Cleared With Real User Results The Nood Flasher 2.0 is FDA-cleared as a Class II medical device, which means that it has undergone third party testing to ensure it is safe and effective for permanent hair reduction. More than 35,000 users have reviewed the device on the brand's website for an average 4.6 out of 5 rating. It has been clinically proven to show a 92% reduction in hair regrowth. Many users have posted favorable before and after images, with some saying they see a reduction in hair growth in as little as two weeks. Nood also sells a serum for $31 that promises to slow hair regrowth and reduce ingrown hairs, irritation and itchiness. If you don't see results in 60 days, you can get your money back. How I Tested The Nood Flasher 2.0 To begin testing the Nood Flasher 2.0, I plugged it in and turned it on—there's no need to charge the device because it must be plugged in during use. I first completed the skin safety test recommended by the brand, which took about a week, although I was fairly confident I'd tolerate IPL hair removal well since I've previously done laser hair removal on my legs and underarms at my dermatologist's office more than a decade ago. I shaved the day before using the device because I find that my skin is sometimes irritated right after shaving. The device is lightweight—at 8.7 ounces—and comfortable to hold in hand with its glossy, rounded edges and ergonomic shape. When I first began flashing my skin with the laser, it was quite bright, and a little unnerving how much it bothered my eyes. The company says that protective eyewear is not required because the device comes with a sensor that prevents it from flashing unless the entire window is pressed against your skin. But even doing that, I found the flash to be jarring, so I would wear dark sunglasses and close my eyes during treatments. It would be nice if they provided safety goggles so I wasn't squeezing my eyes shut while trying to blindly flash the correct area. The Nood Flasher 2.0 must be plugged in during use, but it has a long cord for easy maneuverability ... More as well as an easy-to-read LED screen. Molly Calhoun For Forbes I was able to use the Nood Flasher 2.0 at level 6 or 7 without any discomfort. Overall, this IPL device was much less painful than the in-office hair removal treatments I've previously experienced. However, this could be because I now have far less body hair. In my experience you feel more discomfort the more hair you have and the more the laser is picking up the melanin in the hair. During treatment, I'd feel a slight warmth and occasional tingle or light rubber-band-snap feeling when the device flashed on my skin. It was not unpleasant or off-putting, and the overall experience was comfortable. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the pain of a bikini wax, I'd say this was between a 1 and 3 depending on the area. It was easy to maneuver the Nood Flasher 2.0, but I'd have to pay special attention to keep the flash window pressed evenly against the skin for optimal treatment in bony or tricky areas—like near my ankles or in my groin area—without pressing it into my skin and potentially burning myself. The cord, while long to allow for maneuverability, does not swivel, which would be an improvement when negotiating harder-to-reach areas. The flash window, although larger than on some comparable devices, took some time to treat bigger areas like my legs more quickly, although the continuous glide mode feature expedited the process. I found that I would experience some minor redness after use, but that would go away after 30 minutes. Is The Nood Flasher 2.0 Worth It? Yes, but only if you fit the criteria for the device (in general, you have lighter skin tone and darker hair color, and there is contrast between your hair color and skin color), and you are willing to put in the time and effort. I have fair skin (Type II on the Fitzpatrick scale) and dark brown hair, so I am an ideal candidate for laser hair removal. With consistent, twice a week use over eight weeks, I noticed a thinning in the remaining stubborn hair patches on my legs, and the Nood Flasher 2.0 completely removed the few remaining hairs in my underarms. I previously began laser hair removal on my bikini line at the dermatologist's office but never finished the treatment sessions, so I plan to continue to use this device to finish the process. As beauty devices go, this one is inexpensive at $199, especially compared to long-term waxing costs or in-office laser hair removal treatments which can run into the thousands of dollars. My Expertise I'm a magazine writer and editor who has spent 20 years covering lifestyle topics, including style, health, entertainment and beauty. I've written about the best microcurrent devices, the best mineral sunscreens and the best retinol creams, amongst many other stories. I have been dealing with hair removal since my early teens. I've shaved with every kind of razor, done in-office and at-home waxing, tried electrolysis and hair threading, used hair removal creams and invested in in-grown hair solutions. Due to my fair skin and dark hair, I've found laser hair removal to be extremely effective, and truly life-changing, for me, but over time I've wanted a device to help me with touch-ups. I've used the Nood Flasher 2.0 for more than two months, and I plan to continue to use it for maintenance as needed. This assignment was assigned and edited by deputy editor Jane Sung , who oversees the beauty and grooming vertical at Forbes Vetted. She's covered beauty and lifestyle topics for over two decades and has produced numerous tested reviews and hair removal stories like the best laser hair removal devices . Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Does The Nood Flasher 2.0 Work For Everyone? No, unfortunately it does not. In general, IPL treatment is not recommended for people with very dark skin, or those with light blonde, red or grey hair. Is Laser Hair Treatment Painful? This really depends on your pain tolerance. When you do the skin safety test, that will determine the highest treatment level you can achieve without discomfort. I'd describe the pain from a 1 to 3 on a scale to 10, with 10 being the worst. The brand describes the sensation during flashing as a 'slight tingle,' although I'd describe it more like a zing or a rubber band being lightly snapped against the skin. After lots of experience with laser hair removal, there are definitely factors that influence the level of discomfort, in my opinion. First, areas with thicker hair tend to be more painful. Also, I've found that bony areas around the ankles typically hurt more, as do sensitive areas like the bikini line. Some people say that laser can hurt more before you get your period, but I have not found that to be the case for me. Does The Nood Flasher 2.0 Work Permanently? This device can permanently remove hair, but it's important to note that laser hair removal also requires touch ups over time. The Nood Flasher 2.0 only targets hair follicles in the anagen growth phase—meaning, the period when the follicle is actively growing—and it's possible that hairs not in the anagen phase will still grow. According to the brand, you should see up to 80% hair removal after eight weeks of treatment. Nood advises maintenance treatments every one to two months as necessary.
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Forbes
23-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
[Copy] The 8 Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices, Based On Expert Advice
Laser hair removal can make your grooming routine much more efficient; unlike shaving, this method damages hair follicles to reduce growth over time, ultimately giving more long-term results. After speaking with experts and gathering personal recommendations from Forbes Vetted testers, we landed on the eight best at-home laser hair removal devices, all of which are FDA-cleared. Our top pick overall is the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5, which has 10 intensity levels and four interchangeable caps for full-body treatment. If you have coarse hair, we recommend the ultra-efficient Nood Flasher 2.0, which can offer visible results in as little as three weeks. According to dermatologist Dr. Ramya Garlapati, these gadgets work similarly to in-0ffice laser treatments, but when compared to them, 'the energy level of the at-home lasers is much lower.' Devices designed for home use are commonly IPL (intense pulsed light) tools—many of which are featured in our roundup—which work to achieve similar results as a diode laser does. In addition to providing a convenient alternative to going in for appointments, these hair removal tools can also help with upkeep. (Keep in mind: If you do opt to do this at home, you may need more sessions to see lasting results.) From luxury picks to affordable options, here are the best at-home laser hair removal devices for zapping unwanted body hair. Forbes Vetted readers get 15% off on first purchases at Braun using code FORBES15. Flashes: 400,000 | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 10 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: Braun's Silk Expert Pro 5 has several features that will help you get rid of unwanted hair more efficiently. It features a gliding mode for quickly treating large areas, like the legs, and a stamping mode for hard-to-reach areas, like the bikini line. It also has SensoAdapt technology, which automatically adjusts the flash intensity for safe use on skin. There are 10 intensity levels total, and it's possible to treat both legs in just five minutes at the lowest energy setting. According to the brand's website, results can be seen in as little as four weeks with regular use. The set includes four attachment caps that allow you to safely target different areas of your body, including your armpits and face. There's also a Venus razor for touch-ups. What the reviews say: 'I've used it for two months so far and have seen good results—quite a reduction of hair,' says one Braun customer. 'I have tried so many different machines and this one is the best so far. My underarms are the hardest thing, and there are fewer hairs and they are so much thinner.' However, some users note that completing a full-body treatment with this device is a bit tedious. The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing. Forbes Vetted readers get $10 off the Flasher 2.0 (and all purchases at Nood) by entering code FORBES10 at checkout. Flashes: 600,000 | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 3 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: This device offers a larger treatment window, meaning you only need about 10 minutes per session. Nood's technology also includes one of the highest-intensity lamps that targets hair at the root, without causing sensitivity and redness—even on coarse hair. The device is so effective that you'll see results within as little as three weeks and will notice more permanent hair removal in six to eight weeks. You can switch between three modes, depending on your skin's sensitivity. It's best suited for very fair skin to light brown skin, but may not be as effective or safe for darker skin tones. For more info, read our in-depth Nood review here. What our testers say: 'The Flasher 2.0 has a thoughtful, compact design that fits nicely in the hand, and it's lightweight enough that lengthier IPL sessions don't feel like a chore,' says Forbes Vetted contributor Jessica Timmons. 'Our panel of testers appreciated the privacy, pricing and convenience of using it at home compared to in-office laser hair removal.' Flashes: 300,000 | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 6 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: Most at-home laser hair removal devices come with larger price tags, but this one from RoseSkinCo. makes our list as the best value pick. Although it's more affordable, the device doesn't falter when it comes to results; you may start noticing positive benefits as soon as three weeks, so long as you use the device once per week. (Long-term hair removal can be expected after 12 uses, over the course of six to 12 weeks.) It offers six intensity levels and is suitable to use all over your body, including your armpits, legs, face and bikini area. Note that the device shouldn't be used above the cheekbones or on the inner part of the bikini area. What the reviews say: 'It's honestly a great investment,' says one RoseSkinCo. reviewer. 'I've only been using the Lumi for five weeks, but there are already spots on my legs where the hair has stopped growing. It's super easy and quick to use, and it's so nice that there is no pain involved.' However, some reviewers with dark brown or black hair say the device takes several weeks to begin producing visible results. Flashes: Unlimited | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 10 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: This recently upgraded device glides over large and small areas to provide lasting hair removal results. The Pure Adapt's head automatically adjusts to the contours of your body, preventing missed spots and unwanted burns. There are three comfort modes (Power, Speed and Gentle) that allow you to tailor the device to your targeted areas. Its smart sensor calibrates the ideal IPL for your specific skin and hair type, and each treatment takes about 10 minutes. The device is safe to use on all areas of your body, as well as your face. According to the brand, you can expect to see visible results in just two weeks. What our editors say: 'I've been using this device for about three weeks, and it's the definition of user-friendly: You just plug it in, aim it at your target area and press a button,' says managing editor Emmy Favilla. 'It's minimally painful, and comfortable to hold and wield. While hair is re-growing, it does seem like it's coming in less coarse, which is a great sign.' Flashes: 500,000 | Laser type: OPT | Intensity levels: 6 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: The Jovs Venus Pro has several elements that make it worth the investment. It has a 180-degree rotating head (for better precision), a skin-cooling feature (for added comfort) and useful attachments, like an LED option that also helps reduce visible signs of aging. Unlike the other options on this list, this model uses optimum pulsed light (OPT) technology, which is a more enhanced version of IPL that may provide more effective results. It has six function modes and intensity levels for customized treatment on your legs, underarms, face and bikini lines. A full-body treatment can be completed in around seven minutes, and visible results can be noticed in as soon as four weeks. What the reviews say: Fans of this device praise its unique, streamlined shape, which many say allows access to hard-to-reach areas. 'This is the most ergonomic laser hair removal device that I've ever tried, and I've tried a bunch,' says one Walmart customer. 'The fact that the light source head can pivot is huge.' However, some reviewers say they expected more effective results given the high price tag. Flashes: Unlimited | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 3 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: The Ulike Sapphire Air 3 is so easy to use, you may feel emboldened to use it on your entire body. Its sapphire ice-cooling technology makes the process as painless as possible, while the thumb-free auto glide mode allows you to cover large areas of your body in one fell swoop. The device delivers flashes every 0.7 seconds, and a full-body treatment can take as little as 12 minutes. You can expect to see results in about three weeks, with treatment frequency starting at three times a week and gradually reducing to every month. What the reviews say: Over 1,400 customers give this model a 5-star rating. 'I've had full body laser professionally done and this works just as well, in fact better in a few areas,' says one Amazon customer. 'It's been great on my stubborn areas like my knees and I'm finally lasering my arms now as well. On top of actually working, it's not kidding about being pain-free.' Flashes: Unlimited | Laser type: IPL with RF | Intensity levels: 3 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: The Iluminage Touch is a laser for the the face and body that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) and radio frequency (RF) to gently zap away unwanted hair. It's this combination that makes this pick safe for darker shades of skin—in fact, it's the first at-home laser that's cleared by the FDA to use on all skin tones. The device features three energy levels that can be used on a wide range of hair colors, including blonde, dark blonde and red hair. It also comes with a precision adaptor and an epilator attachment to optimize treatments. The Iluminage Touch also provides results fast—users can expect to see a noticeable decrease in hair growth after just two treatments, and full results in seven weeks. What the reviews say: 'I have been using this for five weeks now and am very pleased with the results,' says one Nordstrom customer. 'I'd say easily 75% of my most stubborn black and coarse hair is gone. On my not so stubborn hair I have noticed about a 90 to 95% reduction. For the hairs that are growing back still, they are much more fine and lighter in color.' However, a portion of customers with coarse hair report that this machine's laser wasn't strong enough to deliver the results they wanted. Flashes: 600,000 | Laser type: eHPL (galvanic and optical energy) | Intensity levels: 5 | FDA-cleared: Yes Pros: Cons: This upgraded Silk'n device targets follicles on a wider range of skin tones than its previous iteration. Its enhanced Home Pulsed Light technology (which is a safer, home-friendly version of IPL) now uses galvanic energy to helps its light reach hair follicles more deeply—and twice as fast than the previous model. Since the laser uses energy from a bulb instead of thermal heat, it's designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, making it our top pick for travel. You can expect to see noticeable results after three to four treatments, and full results after eight. It's also safe for use on your underarms, legs, bikini lines and face, and has five intensity settings to customize your treatment. The Forbes Vetted team has researched, written and published dozens of beauty and grooming stories, relying on our personal expertise as well as thorough insight from qualified professionals. When compiling this list of the best at-home laser hair removal devices, we considered the top options on the market at different price points and capabilities. If you're looking for an at-home laser hair removal device that provides results on par with a professional treatment, there are several factors to consider. Here's what to keep in mind. Most at-home laser hair removal devices use intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy to treat unwanted body hair. However, some devices such as the Jovs Venus Pro II use optimal pulse technology (OPT), which is an enhanced version of IPL that can penetrate the skin more deeply and therefore may be more effective. A select few devices (including the Iluminage Touch) combine IPL with radio frequency (RF) heat energy, which reduces IPL intensity so it can be used across a wider range of skin tones. You can think of the number of flashes (also known as pulses) as the lifespan of the laser. It determines how long you can use the tool before it wears out. In many cases, you can achieve the results you want with one device. According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban, areas such as the lip and face generally need about 25 to 50 flashes; the underarm or bikini line might need up to 200 flashes; larger areas like the legs may need 500 to 600 flashes each; the chest or back may require 700 or even 800 flashes. Laser hair removal devices aren't one size fits all. 'Some may not be advisable for darker skin tones, which have a higher chance for issues such as burning or hyperpigmentation,' says Shamban. 'Usually, lighter skin with darker hair is the best combination, but some can be used on all skin tones and types.' (See the Iluminage Touch, our pick for dark skin tones.) Most devices have multiple intensity levels as well; a higher intensity level will deliver faster results, but it may aggravate sensitive skin. Opting for a device with a skin-cooling feature can remedy some of the pain and irritation caused by more powerful treatments. It's a good idea to keep your desired treatment area in mind when selecting an at-home laser hair removal device, especially if you want to cover larger parts on the body. An automatic flashing feature (like the one found on the Ulike Sapphire Air 3) allows you to cover more surface area without having to hold down a button. Some devices, like the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5, include different detachable laser heads that allow you to target specific places that are hard to reach, like the bikini line. 'Laser hair removal is a treatment in which the hair follicle is permanently destroyed, and this prevents hair growth,' says Garlapati. This method is an excellent solution if you're tired of frequent shaving, waxing or other more temporary grooming options. At-home laser devices work in the same way as ones found in professional establishments, but at lower frequencies. 'As a result, these treatments require more sessions to show an improvement, and they may not be as effective,' she says. That's why it's important to be patient and consistent with your efforts, as it may take several weeks before you notice any change in your hair growth. Safety is often a concern when using one of these laser tools. 'Any device purchased for home usage should be FDA-approved or cleared,' says Shamban. This information should be indicated or marked on the device's packaging or instructions. It's also important to pay attention to the list of usages, as some versions are only safe to use on certain areas. In addition, Garlapati explains that 'there is a risk of burning your skin and causing hyperpigmentation if you do too many passes.' That's why it's important to diligently follow the directions depending on the area that you want to treat. After comparing all eight models on our list, one stood out as the clear winner: The Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 is the best laser for hair removal at home, thanks to its wide range of intensity levels and variety of attachments for different parts of your body. However, everyone's hair removal needs are different. If you have coarse hair, we recommend the Nood Flasher 2.0, while those with darker skin tones should look into the Illuminage Touch. Yes, you should shave before you begin using a laser hair removal device; according to Nood, this should ideally be 12 to 24 hours before you apply the laser to your skin. Shaving can be done with either a manual razor or an electric razor, but keep in mind that a manual razor will provide a closer shave and reduce the risk of the laser burning your hairs. If you plan on using your IPL device to remove facial hair, you should stick to dermaplaning the area rather than shaving.
