This ergonomic machine offers effective at-home hair removal

Score: 10/10

We like:

• Dual Optical and Galvanic energy
• 360 degree rotating head
• Trio of interchangeable attachments
• Five intensity levels
• Pain-free treatment

We don’t like:

• Cumbersome and heavier than other devices
• Expensive
• No cooling technology

What is the Silk’n 7 IPL Hair Removal Device?

The Silk’n 7 IPL is our Best Buy IPL hair removal device, a handheld at-home tool that uses high-intensity light pulses to remove body hair. IPL uses a broader, less precise light than laser and is limited in that it works best on lighter skin tones. Crucially, it can be done at home, and once you buy a device, there’s no further cost (unlike laser sessions.)

The Silk’n 7 is designed for performance, comfort and ingenuity. It combines galvanic energy, patented electrical technology designed to open the skin’s pores, with optical energy, which allows light to penetrate the hair follicle, targeting the hair root to inhibit regrowth.

The premium hair removal tool also features a 360 degree rotating head, three interchangeable attachments, one of which Silk’n claims is the largest treatment window “in the world”, and five intensity levels.

Does the Silk’n 7 IPL deliver on its promise to visibly reduce hair growth in two weeks? I tested the home beauty gadget to determine if it is worth the £500 price tag.

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I previously tested the Silk’n 7 IPL over three months, but neglected my IPL routine, I decided to repeat the process. During this recent trial I paid close attention to the results and timeframe to determine if this IPL delivers visible hair reduction in a fortnight, as it promises.

I experimented with the interchangeable heads, intensity levels and the automatic and manual programmes, as well as glide and pulse methods. I tested it across various areas of my body, including legs, underarms, and bikini line, to assess how gentle it is on delicate areas, how easy it is to use, and if the cumbersome tool sits flush on the contours of my body.

In preparation, I shaved the target areas and carried out a patch test 24 hours before. With no adverse reactions, I proceeded with my hair removal treatment on clean and dry skin.

Initially, I opted for the automatic setting to gauge the safest intensity for my skin and hair combination. I manually increased my treatment to the highest intensity (level five), which Silk’n recommends for my dark hair and fair skin combination.

I adhered to Silk’n’s recommended treatment schedule and used the IPL once every fortnight, then once a month, until my hair growth significantly reduced.