Should You Try a Home Laser Hair Removal Device?
Of the few sure things that can be counted upon, unwanted hair growth is right up there with death and taxes. Laser hair removal, until recently, had to be performed by a dermatologist during a scheduled office visit. Visits are expensive, on average $350 a session depending on treatment area. Now there are two laser home hair removal devices that have been FDA approved since 2008 and both run under $600. Should you try one? Do they actually work?
Tria is a home laser hair removal device that was developed by a doctor who had been involved in the development of the lasers used in dermatology offices. Laser light hair removal works by focusing a single wavelength of light to heat the melanin in the hair follicle and disabling the part that allows growth to occur. Hair reduction is supposed to be seen after 3 treatments and it is suggested you use Tria every other week for 3 months then once a month for 3-5 months.
Silk’n utilizes a proprietary Home Pulsed Light (HPL) technology which is different from the Tria laser light device. The light energy is similar to the principle of intense pulsed light (IPL) in office devices with an added “acoustic effect”. Silk’n uses a replaceable cartridge ($50 a piece) that must be changed after 750 light shots. The device also remains plugged in during use while the Tria uses a rechargeable battery. Clinical trials on the Silk’n website state that 80% of people experience noticeable hair loss after 3 months.
Both Tria and Silk’n cannot use on tanned skin for 4 wks after tanning or on dark complexions. Both have built in skin sensors to prevent use on darker skin. Neither should be used on the face or neck to avoid potential eye damage from exposure to their light. Both devices have money back return policies. Side effects of both home devices may include: temporary redness, swelling or tenderness.
I scanned forums on responses to both Tria and Silk’n and as to be expected, some people have better results than others.
Women consistently report that both devices were painful to use, especially in the bikini area and one person felt that it hurt even more on coarser hair.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment3 Comments
I really recommend Silk'n -- it worked wonders for me! I love being able to use it in my own home for such a good price, and results that really work. I got mine at Sephora, and can't stop telling my friends about it!
November 27, 2009 - 1:42pmThis Comment
I have a silk'n as well! its been good for me, no pain and easy to use from home. saves you a ton of money from going to laser cetners
December 6, 2009 - 11:15pmBIGGEST SCAMS EVER!!!!
December 10, 2009 - 3:04pm