Can You Use At-Home Laser Hair Removal on the Face?

Youmna Rehman • June 17, 2025

Facial hair can be stubborn and frustrating, especially when it grows in places you’d rather keep smooth—like the upper lip, chin, sideburns, or jawline. Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution, but visiting a clinic for professional treatments isn’t always convenient or affordable. This has led many people to consider at-home laser hair removal devices as an alternative.

But is it safe to use these devices on the face? Do they really work? And what should you know before trying them? Let’s break it all down.

How does laser hair removal work on face?

How At-Home Laser Hair Removal Works

At-home devices generally use intense pulsed light (IPL) or low-energy diode laser technology to target the melanin in your hair follicles. Like professional machines, the goal is to heat and disable the follicle so it eventually stops growing hair.

The big difference? At-home devices are much less powerful than the ones used by trained professionals. That’s intentional, to reduce the risk of burns, pigmentation changes, and irritation in untrained hands.

Is It Safe to Use on the Face?

Yes—but with conditions. Most at-home laser hair removal devices are approved for use on below-the-cheek areas, such as:

Upper lip
Chin
Jawline
Neck

The eye area and eyebrows are strictly off-limits due to the risk of severe eye damage. Even using protective goggles isn’t considered safe when operating a device that close to the eyes.

Always read the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully before using a laser hair removal device on your face. If your skin is sensitive or prone to hyperpigmentation, speak to a dermatologist before trying it.

Do At-Home Laser Devices Work on the Face?

They can work—but results take patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.

Most users start seeing results after 3–4 sessions, with noticeable hair thinning and slower regrowth. However, complete hair reduction typically takes 8–12 sessions, spaced one to two weeks apart.

Since the devices are less powerful, results won’t be as dramatic or permanent as professional treatments. You may need regular maintenance sessions every few months to keep hair at bay.

Factors That Influence Results

Not everyone sees the same results from at-home laser hair removal. Here are some key factors that matter:

Skin Tone and Hair Color

These devices work best on people with light skin and dark hair. That's because the light energy targets the pigment in the hair. Blonde, red, gray, or white hairs typically don’t respond well.

Hormonal Hair Growth

Facial hair in women is often influenced by hormones, especially around the chin and upper lip. If you have PCOS or hormonal imbalances, hair may regrow more aggressively and require more sessions.

Consistency

Inconsistent use is one of the biggest reasons people don’t see results. Follow the schedule outlined in your device’s instructions and don’t skip sessions.

Step-by-Step: How to Safely Use Laser Hair Removal on Your Face

Step 1: Patch Test First

Always do a patch test on a small area (like the jawline) and wait 24 hours to check for any reactions.

Step 2: Shave, Don’t Wax

Shave the area before using the device. Avoid waxing or plucking since the laser needs the hair root intact to work.

Step 3: Clean and Dry Your Face

Make sure your face is free of lotions, makeup, sunscreen, or oil before treatment.

Step 4: Choose the Right Intensity

Start with the lowest setting and work your way up if your skin tolerates it well.

Step 5: Use a Mirror and Be Precise

Especially on areas like the upper lip or chin, make sure you’re treating the exact area to avoid overlap or missed spots.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even though at-home laser devices are beginner-friendly, a few missteps can lead to irritation, burns, or pigmentation:

Using it on freshly tanned or sunburned skin
Treating broken, inflamed, or acne-prone areas
Using on eyebrows or near the eyes
Overlapping zaps on the same spot
Treating too frequently (more isn’t better!)

Common Side Effects

Some side effects are normal—others are red flags.

Normal reactions include:

Mild redness
Warmth or tingling
Temporary dryness

Abnormal reactions may include:

Blistering
Dark or light patches (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation)
Persistent stinging or burning

If any of the latter occurs, stop using the device and seek advice from a medical professional.

Challenges of Facial Laser Hair Removal at Home

Laser hair removal at home isn’t as effortless as it seems. Here are some common challenges:

Hard-to-reach areas: The jawline or under the chin can be awkward to target without help.
Slow progress: You’ll need patience. Visible results take several weeks.
Skin tone limitations: If you have deeper skin, most IPL devices aren’t safe for you. Look for FDA-cleared devices like those with Nd:YAG lasers designed for all skin types.

Aftercare Tips for Your Face

Avoid sun exposure for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
Use sunscreen daily, even indoors.
Skip active skincare ingredients like retinol, acids, and exfoliants for at least two days.
Apply soothing gels like aloe vera if needed.

When to Avoid At-Home Facial Laser Hair Removal

There are certain times when it’s better to avoid laser hair removal altogether:

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
If you have active acne, open wounds, or cold sores
If you're on photosensitizing medications
If you’ve recently done a chemical peel or microneedling session
If in doubt, consult a dermatologist before using any device on your face.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At-home laser hair removal devices can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for managing facial hair, especially if you have the right skin and hair type. They won’t deliver clinic-level results, but for many people, they reduce the need for frequent shaving or waxing.

Used correctly and consistently, these devices can help you achieve smoother skin and greater confidence over time. Just be cautious, informed, and realistic—and don’t hesitate to get professional advice if something doesn’t feel right.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

BOOK YOUR FREE SESSION

How to Prepare for Your First Underarm Laser Session

By Youmna Rehman • August 4, 2025

Nervous about your first underarm laser session? Learn exactly how to prepare—from what to avoid weeks before to what to do on the day. Expert tips for smoother, safer results.

How Long Does an Underarm Laser Session Take?

By Youmna Rehman • July 31, 2025

If you’ re thinking about getting laser hair removal for your underarms, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is: “How long does the session actually take?” The short answer? Not long. But there’s a lot more to it than just time on the clock. From prep to post-care, each session involves specific steps that affect not only how long you’ll be in the clinic but also how effective your results will be. This guide breaks it all down, so you know exactly what to expect. What Not to Do Before and After Underarm Laser Hair Removal Why Laser Hair Removal for Underarms Is So Popular The underarms are one of the most commonly treated areas for laser hair removal, and it’s easy to see why. The area is small, which means treatments are quick. Plus, the hair tends to be darker and coarser, making it more responsive to the laser. For many people, a few sessions can mean smoother skin and a serious reduction in regrowth. How Long Does the Actual Laser Session Take? Most underarm laser sessions take about 10 to 15 minutes . That’s it. This includes the time it takes for the technician to prepare the skin, adjust the laser settings, and apply the treatment to both underarms. If you’ve shaved properly beforehand (which is usually recommended), the session will go even faster. Here’s a breakdown of what usually happens during that time: Quick skin check by the technician Wiping the area clean if needed Application of the laser pulses (this usually takes just 5-7 minutes for both underarms) Optional application of soothing gel or aloe afterward You’ll be in and out in less time than it takes to scroll Instagram. Factors That Can Affect Session Duration While 10–15 minutes is the average, a few things can make your session take slightly longer or shorter. Skin and Hair Type : Coarser or denser hair might require more laser passes. Pain Tolerance : If you’re sensitive to the laser sensation, you might need breaks. Technician Technique : Some clinics use faster machines or more experienced technicians, which can speed things up. Pre-Treatment Preparation : If you forgot to shave or have residual deodorant on your skin, the technician may need to clean or prep the area, adding a few minutes. What About the First Appointment? Your first laser hair removal appointme nt will likely be a bit longer — around 20 to 30 minutes total. That’s because the technician will go over your medical history, explain the procedure, perform a patch test, and answer any questions you may have. But once you get into the routine of regular sessions, the actual laser part rema ins quick. Does Underarm Laser Hair Removal Really Work? How Many Sessions Will You Need? Most people need 6 to 8 sessions for optimal results, spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. Some people see a significant reduction in hair growth after just a few sessions, but consistency is key. The speed of the sessions makes it easier to stick to your treatment plan. Can You Schedule During a Lunch Break? Yes, and that’s one of the best things about underarm laser hair removal . Since the session is so short, it’s ideal for squeezing in between classes, errands, or during a break from work. There's no downtime required, so you can go back to your day immediately. Aftercare: Does That Add Time? After your session, you might experience mild redness or a warm sensation on your skin. Applying aloe vera or a soothing lotion is usually enough. The aftercare process is simple and doesn’t take much time, but avoid applying deodorant or taking hot showers for at least 24 hours. Laser vs. Other Hair Removal Methods (Time Comparison) If you’re used to shaving every few days or waxing every few weeks, laser hair removal is a major time-saver in the long run. Here’s how it compares: Shaving : Takes 3–5 minutes per session, multiple times a week Waxing : Takes about 30 minutes every 2–4 weeks Laser : 10–15 minutes every 4–6 weeks, and long-term results after 6–8 sessions Final Thoughts Laser hair removal for underarms is one of the quickest cosmetic treatments available. In just 10 to 15 minutes per session, you’re working toward long-lasting smoothness and ditching the hassle of razors or waxing strips. Whether you’re fitting it into a busy schedule or just tired of constant upkeep, underarm laser is quick, effective, and surprisingly convenient.