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The Ulike hair removal device has a lot going for it: a significantly lower price point than in-salon treatments, a sleek handheld design, and the rare promise of painless at-home hair removal. For skeptics of over-the-counter beauty tech, it’s true, these at-home devices may not rival professional-grade machines in sheer power. But what Ulike’s IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) tool may lack in strength, it more than makes up for in user-friendly design and surprisingly effective results in the pursuit of becoming hair-free. And best of all, it’s on sale this Prime Day for $259 (about 35% off)—the same amount wouldn’t even get you two in-salon laser hair removal appointments, while this one time splurge will have you set for months.
Admittedly, I had no idea there was a distinction between IPL hair removal and traditional laser hair removal. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gratch breaks it down: IPL uses a broad spectrum of wavelengths, typically between 500 and 1,200 nanometers, to target melanin in the hair shaft, ultimately disabling the follicle and slowing regrowth. “It’s a popular, non-invasive technology used for long-term hair reduction,” Leona Liu, Ulike’s general manager, tells Vogue. “Unlike shaving or waxing, IPL gradually reduces hair growth over time.”
While both IPL and laser treatments harness light to zap hair at the root, Liu notes one key difference. “Laser hair removal emits a single, concentrated wavelength, while IPL uses a broad spectrum that covers larger areas faster. It’s also pain-free—and much more affordable,” she says.
As someone with thick—I mean, really thick—dark hair, I’m no stranger to laser hair removal being less about an aesthetic choice and more about comfort (so if you like to go au natural with your body hair—more power to you!). Shaving or waxing unwanted hair inevitably led to painful ingrowns, no matter how diligent I was with proper exfoliation or post-care. Even embracing an all-natural approach didn’t help either—yes, I tested the theory, by abandoning shaving all together during lockdown (throwback to 2020!).
With high hopes, I tested out Ulike’s latest hair removal innovation so you don’t have to—though I’m certain you’ll be intrigued to get your very own device ASAP. Convenience, comfort, and smoother skin on your own schedule? That’s the beauty of this handheld, hair removing wonder—and this beauty writer argues it’s totally worth it.
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- Why we like it: The Ulike is one of the most popular IPL hair removal device options, boasting thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon. Over the years, there have been several iterations, but this newest version is particularly gentle on sensitive skin, making it suitable for most skin types. The device offers a ice cooling technology to prevent against a burning sensation while use. Plus, you can pick your intensity level, with five different options, allowing you to choose the one that works best for you, although the brand recommends starting with level one.
- FDA-Approved: Yes
- Laser Type: IPL
- Intensity levels: Five intensity levels
- Flashes: Unlimited
- Skin Tone: Fair, light, medium, tan, tan-deep
About the Ulike Air 10 Laser Hair Removal
If a handheld laser hair removal device were designed with the curves of a Corvette in mind, it would be the Ulike Air 10. With its sculptural silhouette and ergonomic design, this device doesn’t just look high-tech—it delivers high-performing results with the ease (and comfort) of an at-home routine. What truly sets Ulike apart from other DIY devices (and even in-office laser appointments) is its dual commitment to efficacy and gentleness.
“Our Sapphire Ice Cooling system actively cools the treatment area to prevent burns and irritation, making the experience safe and comfortable—even on sensitive areas like the bikini line,” says Leona Liu, Ulike’s general manager. The brand’s high-performance SHR Mode (short for Super Hair Removal—and yes, I’ve gotten intimately familiar with it) uses a series of rapid light pulses that gradually build energy, rather than delivering a single harsh flash. The result? Hair reduction without the sting.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Noah Gratch is also a fan. He notes that the Air 10 can be used on multiple areas of the body and has been shown to reduce hair by up to 96% within just two weeks. “It also features a built-in skin sensor that adjusts light intensity based on your skin tone, ensuring a safer, more tailored treatment,” he explains. In short: a next-gen approach to laser hair removal that’s fast, sleek, and sensitive-skin friendly, with no appointment necessary.
My Experience With Ulike’s Air 10 Laser Hair Removal
My last professional laser hair removal appointment was the final straw. After a standard session treating my legs, I broke out hours later into a full-blown rash that resembled being swarmed and eaten alive by mosquitoes. Strangely, this reaction had never occurred on more traditionally sensitive areas like my bikini line or underarms—only my legs. What followed were two weeks with my legs itchy, covered in inflamed hair follicles that felt hot to the touch (plus more Benadryl than I care to admit). At that point, I resigned myself to what felt like a losing battle: no matter the method, hair removal and my skin were just never going to get along.
That is, until our senior commerce beauty writer, Kiana Murden, chimed in. “Have you ever tried at-home IPL devices?” she asked, after gasping at the photos of my welt-covered legs. I initially brushed off the ask—surely nothing over-the-counter could handle my hair, which is thick in both texture and growth pattern. Still, she nudged me toward giving it a shot, and I figured “What do I have to lose?” My olive toned skin and black hair meant I was in the clear to use the Ulike IPL hair removal device.
To my surprise, I was impressed (and got a chuckle) right from the unboxing. The Ulike starter kit feels decidedly official, complete with a mini dry razor for missed patches and foldable, Balenciaga-adjacent protective glasses that made me feel like a DIY laser technician. Once plugged in and shades on, I began with my armpits, expecting the usual rubber-band snap sensation. Instead, I was met with a surprisingly soothing cooling effect.
Another standout? The device’s treatment window is noticeably wider than those of others I’ve tried, meaning it covers a larger surface area per pass, eliminating the need for tedious pinpoint targeting. Two weeks in, and not only was I free of any irritation, but I also noticed a real difference: my underarm hair had softened and thinned significantly from its usual coarse, wiry texture. Feeling cautiously optimistic, I moved on to my leg area (the true test and problem area). I was shocked again: no rash, no hive-like bumps, no rebound inflammation. Even better, the results have lasted. I haven’t shaved in two weeks, which is a record, considering my pre-treatment hair regrowth would usually appear within 24 hours. Consider me converted.
How To Use Ulike’s Air 10 Laser Hair Removal
First things first: while both IPL and traditional laser hair removal are known for their effectiveness, there’s one notable caveat—they’re not ideal for all skin tones or hair colors. “Ulike’s IPL technology works best for individuals with lighter skin tones and darker hair, as the device relies on contrast between the pigment in the hair and the surrounding skin,” explains Leona Liu, Ulike’s general manager. “Those with deeper skin tones or very light hair—such as blonde, red, gray, or white—may not see the same level of results.”
Say you’re in the clear skin tone and hair color wise. In that case, before starting, make sure the treatment area is clean-shaven and dry. To ensure the best results, adjust the device’s intensity level to your skin type (Ulike recommends starting on Level 1 for your first time using the device) and always wear the included protective goggles to shield your eyes.
To begin, hold the device flush against your skin at a 90-degree angle. Once the sensor light confirms complete contact, press the flash button to activate the treatment. “What makes Ulike especially user-friendly is our SkinSensor technology, which automatically reads your skin tone and adjusts the energy level in real time,” Liu adds. “This eliminates the guesswork and ensures each treatment is safe, tailored, and effective—delivering results while minimizing the risk of irritation or overexposure.”
How Often to Use Ulike’s Air 10 Laser Hair Removal
Another key difference between an in-salon appointment and the Ulike device is frequency of use. While a professional appointment will have you back every 8 to 12 weeks, the Ulike requires you to zap more frequently—at least at first. Liu recommends starting with two to three sessions per week for the first 10 weeks, then reduce to once a week for a few weeks, and finally to once or twice a month for maintenance, according to Ulike. Why so frequent? The phased approach to hair removal helps maintain more long-lasting hair-free results, by stopping the regrowth cycle in it’s tracks. So tack this onto your overall skincare routine to get into the habit of frequent use.
Shop more Vogue-approved Hair Removal Devices
Meet the Experts
- Leona Liu is the general manager of Ulike North America
- Dr. Noah Gratch, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in treatments for acne, eczema, hyperhidrosis, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
