Laser resurfacing is nothing new at the dermatologist’s office, but bringing these procedures home in a more compact—and generally more affordable—package is a fairly recent phenomenon. Because the FDA doesn’t vet beauty devices for aesthetic results, navigating your options can get a bit tricky. Before you dive into the world of at-home laser devices, immerse yourself in research to help make the right choice for your complexion and skin care goals.
Laser for Skin Resurfacing
Wand-like laser devices for home use often rely on fractional laser technology, which pierces the skin’s collagen layer, resulting in stimulated collagen and elastin production, increased elasticity and a reduction in hyperpigmentation. With very regular use—a few months’ time up to five days weekly—fractional lasers help smooth, tone and tighten the skin. Dermatologists also use fractional technology in the office, but home resurfacing devices significantly scale back the intensity. Home devices employ non-ablative lasers, which simply heat the lower layers of skin and leave the top layer intact. This reduces downtime and minimizes risks like infection and swelling. Many of these home-based products are used in conjunction with antioxidant gels, creams or serums to help encourage collagen production after resurfacing.
Laser Body-Hair Removal
Some handheld body-hair removers use laser-produced heat to target the hair’s pigment; after multiple treatments in a row, this damages stem cells and stunts hair growth. These devices often cater to people with light-to-medium skin tones and dark hair. Alternatively, intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removers disrupt hair growth right at the root. A 2010 study from the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology reports overall hair reduction of about 78 percent over the course of 16 weeks, with one IPL treatment every other week. Both of these devices typically target small areas—such as the bikini line or underarms—making them a convenient and effective at-home solution for hair removal.
Laser vs. LED
Unlike resurfacing lasers, some at-home devices feature light-emitting diodes (LED) to project intense red and blue infrared lights onto the skin. Red LED therapy aims to boost collagen production and improve skin tone and works best for people who are struggling with both acne and wrinkles.
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Also Read: Can Lasers Reduce Pore Size?
